Sitting on the corner of 18th Avenue and Sherman Street, the Mosque of the El Jebel Shrine building can easily get lost in the sea of skyscrapers around it. But look up and you’ll see the red brick building’s unconventional blend of architectural styles, including Moorish, Egyptian, and Arts and Crafts influence. This Victorian-era gem designed by the local architect duo, the Baerresen Brothers, is equally stunning inside, with curved windows, intricate tilework, painted plaster, and pristine woodwork throughout — some of which can be seen in the above photo of the structure’s fourth floor auditorium.
Over the last few decades, the Shrine has served as a community space of sorts, hosting local proms, fundraisers, and arts functions. Last year, events management company Non Plus Ultra — which programs other empty spaces across the city, like the Sports Castle — took over the El Jebel and has plans to reopen again for events in the next few months.
Special thanks to History Colorado and the Denver Post for their reporting on the building’s history.
