Jameh Mosque of Isfahan

Also known as Atigh Mosque, Masjed-e Jameh in Isfahan is a not-to-be-missed attraction in the city, and perhaps the whole country. Displaying the magnificence and grandeur of Persian design, the building has been developed over different eras and reflects the evolution of Iran’s rich architectural tradition.

The current face of the mosque predominantly dates to the Seljuk era; the restorations and decorative additions were carried out by the Safavids.

The mosque highlights a four-iwan structure facing each other, Shabestan, dome and arches. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mosque’s quadruple iwans are adorned with intricate Muqarnas, a form of vault decoration. The interior boasts great tiling which is as old as the minarets. Its Shabestan standing on circular pillars is also decorated with fine stucco work, dating from Deylamian. The exceptionally-designed dome is typical of Seljuk buildings.  The finest woodcarving can be seen in the pulpit. The stucco works in Mihrab, a niche in the mosque at qibla direction, built under the Mongol emperor, Oljaytu, is also astonishing.

The world-celebrated monument truly represents exquisite Iranian arts and skills. Many studies and articles have been published on the mosque which examine the design and arts used in the building. They all state that it is one of the best evolutionary examples of Iran’s architecture.

Perhaps the oldest mosque in the city, Jameh Mosque is admired by the great American archaeologist, Professor Arthur Upham.