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Listen Now to WYEP’s Pittsburgh Performance Project audio profile of The Syria Mosque


The Syria Mosque


Syria Mosque PCard
Exterior of the Syria Mosque.
Image courtesy Jennifer Baron

"Basically they paved paradise for a parking lot, and that’s what we’ve had since the demolition of the Syria Mosque." – PA Senator Jim Ferlo

Few Pittsburgh buildings have inspired a greater public outcry over their demolition than the former Syria Mosque. Built in 1915, the Mosque was the home of the Masonic Order of the Shriners before becoming a beloved venue for live music in the heart of Oakland. When the Syria Mosque was slated for destruction in August of 1991, Pittsburghers found themselves in an emotional discussion about the importance of music venues in the city.

Syria Mosque Map

With its ornate architectural exterior and distinctive sphinxes standing guard out front, the Mosque is remembered for its crystal-clear acoustics, 180 degree seating and balcony that almost reached to the stage. The Syria Mosque hosted everything from opera and orchestral music to rock acts like Bob Dylan, Chuck Berry, Pink Floyd and Bruce Springsteen.

In 1991 the Shriners sold Syria Mosque to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and the building was demolished to make room for a parking lot. For many Pittsburghers, no other venue has taken the place of the Mosque, and the venue’s destruction is still a sore spot in the annals of Oakland development.