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Shah/Emam Mosque is a mosque in Isfahan (Eşfahān), Iran standing in south side of Naghsh-i Jahan Square.
Built during the Safavids period, it is an excellent example of Islamic architecture of Iran, and regarded as the masterpiece of Persian Architecture. The Imam Mosque of Esfahan is one of the everlasting masterpieces of architecture in Iran and all over the world. It is registered along with the Naghsh-i Jahan Square as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its construction began in 1611, and its splendor is mainly due to the beauty of its seven-color mosaic tiles and calligraphic inscriptions.
Measurements
The portal of the mosque measures 27 meters high, crowned with two minarets 42 meters tall. The Mosque is surrounded with four iwans and arcades. All the walls are ornarnented with seven-color mosaic tile. The most magnificent iwan of the mosque is the one facing the Qibla measuring 33 meters high. Behind this iwan is a space which is roofed with the largest dome in the city at 52 meters height. The dome is double layered.
The acoustic properties and reflections at the central point under the dome is an amusing interest for many visitors. There are two seminaries at the southwest and southeast sections of the mosque.
Architects
The architects of the mosque are reported to be the following masters:
- Ustad Ali Akbar Isfahani
- Ustad Fereydun Naini
- Ustad Shoja' Isfahani
References
- Mimaran-i Iran by Zohreh Bozorg-nia. 2004. ISBN 964-7483-39-2
See also
"Shah Mosque"