Jame Abbasi Mosque (Shah Mosque)

Given the importance of the mosque in Iranian culture, the Shah mosque/Jame Abbasi Mosque/ Imam Mosque, is a good point to start. This mosque was the first congregational mosque and the biggest mosque in Safavid era and it is the only mosque with three dome chambers in Iran. Several travelers describe the majesty of this mosque such as Pietro Della Valle, Jean Chardin, and Pascal Coste. On the portal, you will see the best tile work of the mosque. This combination of polychromic tiles, faience tiles and inscriptions reflect the prominent example of Safavid decoration. One of the inscriptions is written by Ali-Reza Abbasi, the famous calligrapher showing the completion of the mosque in 1616. Have a look at the sumptuous 42 m high minarets adorned with the delicate tiles, impressing the world with the imperial might of the Safavids. The spiral decoration of the minarets symbolizes the tree of the paradise leading the eyes to the sky. This royal mosque was built in a hurry in the order of Shah Abbas. The construction started in 1611, but it ended up not being finished until after his death.  However, the decoration was completed between 1666-1684.

You are stepping in the figurative paradise filled with blue and yellow tiles reflecting the sky. This mosque presents the grandeur and simplicity in architecture at the same time.

On the corridor, either side you take; you will feel the 45-degree change of direction oriented toward Mecca. If you take the left side, you can see the main old well, Gavchah, which was supposed to supply the water for ablution and other utilizations. To best grasp the mosque’s design, take the right and stand in the courtyard, which is surrounded by four contrasting porches, ayvans, leading to vaulted sanctuaries, and you will appreciate the building’s perfect proportion; it is the symmetry here that leaves a lasting impression. The southern portico holds two 48 m high minarets decorated with the names of Ali and Mohammad. The portico went under restoration in Qajarid era under the supervision of Andre Godard.