Epstein obtained objects from Islam’s holiest site for his island ‘Mosque’
Jeffrey Epstein acquired Islamic artifacts, including tapestries from the Kaaba in Mecca and tiles from Uzbekistan, to decorate a building on his private Caribbean island that he referred to as a 'mosque.' His efforts to collect these items were intertwined with his attempts to build business connections in the Middle East, including with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Documents released by the Justice Department reveal Epstein's long-standing fascination with Islamic architecture and his use of cultural objects to cultivate relationships with powerful figures.
- ▪Tapestries from the Kaaba in Mecca and tiles from a mosque in Uzbekistan were shipped to Jeffrey Epstein for use in a building on his private island, Little Saint James.
- ▪Epstein referred to the blue-and-white-striped structure with a golden dome on his island as a 'mosque,' despite being a secular Jew with no known religious affiliation.
- ▪Epstein sought to advise Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on financial matters, including a proposal for a new currency called 'the shariah,' and used artifact acquisitions to strengthen such connections.
- ▪Romanian artist Ion Nicola confirmed that Epstein consistently called the island building his 'mosque' and was deeply involved in its design and decoration.
- ▪Documents released by the Justice Department in January 2026 shed light on Epstein’s network and his blending of art collection with efforts to gain influence in the Middle East.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
For subscribersEpstein obtained objects from Islam’s holiest site for his island ‘Mosque’Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxA structure, which Jeffrey Epstein referred to as a mosque, on Little Saint James, his private island in the Caribbean.PHOTO: US DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICEEphrat LivniPublished Apr 30, 2026, 07:59 AMUpdated Apr 30, 2026, 07:59 AMTapestries embroidered with Quranic verses were shipped from the Kaaba in Mecca, Islam’s holiest shrine. Tiles came from a mosque in Uzbekistan.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.