Ottawa Mosque May Gain Heritage Status as City's Only Modernist Islamic Landmark
Located at 251 Northwestern Avenue, the Ottawa Mosque was constructed between 1973 and 1979 and remains one of the earliest purpose-built mosques in the province.
Operated by the Ottawa Muslim Association, the facility also houses a library, educational programs, and social services that serve the local Muslim community, CTV News reported Friday.
In a report prepared for Ottawa’s Built Heritage Committee, city staff noted that the mosque meets five of the nine criteria required for heritage designation. They described it as “a unique and rare expression of a modernist place of worship,” highlighting its significance as the only modernist mosque in the city.
“The building is characteristic of the Modernist style with its simple form and use of contemporary construction materials,” staff wrote. “Finally, 251 Northwestern Avenue has design value as a representative example of a modernist mosque with traditional Islamic architecture features including its characteristic dome, minaret, and prayer hall with a square plan.”
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According to the report, the mosque is valued for its architectural style, its association with the Muslim community in Ottawa, and its role in the broader urban context. It is considered a landmark within the city’s multicultural and religious landscape.
City officials met with representatives of the Ottawa Muslim Association in November 2023 to discuss the possible designation. The matter will be reviewed by the Built Heritage Committee on Tuesday, when a vote is expected on issuing a formal notice of intent.
The committee will also consider heritage status for another notable Ottawa site, the ByTowne Cinema, a longtime fixture in the city’s independent film scene.
Source: Agencies
