Captivating Architecture of Nasir Al-Molk Mosque

This impressive mosque is a historic tourist hot spot in an old neighborhood in Shiraz. The Islamic-Persian architecture attracts visitors at first sight due to its charming structure and tranquil atmosphere.

Nasir Al-Molk, the Fars governor renowned for his just rule, committed to build the mosque in 1255, solar calendar. The construction ended in 1304. From a famous family, and the son of Ghavam Al-Molk, he was among the wealthy men of Qajar. He owned many properties: Sa’edi Township in Shiraz, a massive farm in the suburbs, and several villages in Beiza, Fesa, and Sarvestan. The generous man sold them all for charitable reasons. His name along with the architects’ name is viewed on the entrance inscription of the splendid edifice.

Originally it contained a mosque, a house, a bathhouse, and storehouse but a large part of the interior was damaged when the new construction of the Lotf Ali Khan Zand Street began.

The architecture of the astonishing mosque encompasses an area of 2,890 square meters with an infrastructure of 2,216 square meters; it boasts eye-catching works of tiling and Muqarans, an amazing model of ornamented vaulting in Islamic architecture. The mosque’s splendid works of art have almost no parallel elsewhere in the world. Colorful tiles and great miniature arts draw the eyes of travelers who come to experience hours of tranquility and peace in the sacred place.

Pink, the dominant calm color, is not seen in any other mosque throughout the country. Colorful glass pieces are combined to reflect the charms and magic of sunlight during the day.

The mosque has two entry doors; the major one is of wood with a stone frame embellished in Eslimi patterns. On top, a poem of the great Persian poet, Shoorideh, is viewed on a great marble stone.

Strong pillars support the structure in different spots.  The internal and external ceilings are of colorful tiles with verses of the holy Quran. The windows all the way through admit colorful light, creating a glorious, delightful atmosphere. The allure and glamour of colors and light, rarely seen in such structures, remind you of the revered Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.

Traditional Islamic architecture is perfectly expressed in the arched porches and the centered pool.

This wonderfully built mosque is a cherished touristic spot, embracing both Muslim and non-Muslim sightseers looking for peace and delight.