Update Date: February 7, 2025
What is the oldest mosque in Shiraz? What is specific about Jameh Mosque of Atigh? Did you know that Hafez, the famous Persian poetry, say prayers in this mosque? Explore another attractive spot of Iran by GetBookOnline.com.
Welcome to the enchanting city of Shiraz, where history, culture, and beauty intertwine to create a mesmerizing experience. Nestled within this vibrant city, lies a timeless gem known as the Jameh Mosque of Atigh. Step into a world where centuries unfold before your eyes, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Iran.
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh, known as Jameh Mosque and Friday Mosque, stands as a testament to the architectural marvels of the past. As you approach its grand entrance, the magnitude of its significance becomes evident. This sacred sanctuary has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, preserving the stories of generations within its ancient walls.
Dating back over a thousand years, the mosque’s intricate design captivates every visitor. The simplicity and elegance of its structure, adorned with ornate calligraphy and delicate tilework, evoke a sense of awe and reverence. The courtyard, a tranquil oasis, invites you to pause and reflect, offering a respite from the bustling city beyond.
As you step inside, the air is filled with a serene ambiance. Sunlight filters through stained glass windows, casting ethereal hues upon the worn stone floors. The whisper of prayers and the soft echo of footsteps resonate within these hallowed halls, connecting the present with the past.
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh not only serves as a place of worship but also as a living testament to the evolution of Islamic architecture. Each corner reveals a different era, with elements from various dynasties, including Seljuk, Safavid, and Zand. This amalgamation of styles showcases the mosque’s profound cultural significance and its enduring role as a spiritual and communal center.
Allow yourself to be transported through time as you explore the Jameh Mosque of Atigh. It is a place where the past and present converge, where the whispers of history tell tales of devotion, resilience, and the everlasting spirit of the people of Shiraz.
Jameh Mosque of Atigh in a Glance
The mosque’s architectural splendor is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of its builders. It features intricate designs and ornate decorations, showcasing elements from various dynasties such as the:
- Seljuk;
- Safavid;
- and Zand periods.
The fusion of these architectural styles creates a visually captivating and culturally rich experience for visitors. The mosque’s grandeur extends beyond its exterior. Upon entering, one is greeted by a tranquil courtyard, providing a serene atmosphere for contemplation. Inside, the prayer hall displays exquisite details, including beautifully carved mihrabs, delicate tilework, and stained glass windows that cast a mesmerizing play of light and colors.
Jameh Mosque of Atigh has not only served as a place of worship but has also played a role in the social and political fabric of Shiraz throughout history. It has been a gathering place for the community, a center for spiritual reflection, and a witness to the cultural evolution of the city.
Visiting Jameh Mosque of Atigh offers a glimpse into the rich heritage and profound spirituality of Shiraz. It is a place where history comes alive, where the architectural magnificence and cultural significance converge, leaving visitors in awe of its timeless beauty.
History of Jameh Mosque of Atigh
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh holds a special place in the city of Shiraz as it is the oldest mosque there and among the oldest ones in all of Iran. This historic mosque was built around the year 893 AD during the time of the Saffarid dynasty, under the rule of Amr Lais Saffari. However, it is believed that the original core of the mosque was established even earlier, during the time of Umar ibn Abdul Aziz, a caliph.
What makes this mosque unique is that it was constructed on the remains of another ancient structure, possibly a fire temple from ancient times. Over the centuries, the mosque has undergone various changes and improvements. During the 6th and 7th centuries, additions were made to the mosque by the Atabakan rulers, who also took care to restore the existing parts of the mosque.
Perhaps the most significant renovations took place during the Safavid era, under the reigns of Shah Tahmasp and Shah Abbas I. They added inscriptions and made extensive repairs, leaving their mark on the mosque. Even during the Qajar period, further renovations took place.
Today, the Jameh Mosque of Atigh stands as a living testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Shiraz. Visitors can explore the mosque and marvel at its architectural beauty, which showcases the craftsmanship of different periods. Each era has left its own unique mark on the mosque, creating different pages of history that can be witnessed within its walls.
The mosque continues to be a place of worship and a symbol of spiritual devotion for the local community. Its historical significance and intricate charm attract people from near and far, who come to experience the serene atmosphere and learn about the cultural heritage of Shiraz.
Jameh Mosque of Atigh Architecture
The Jameh Mosque of Atiq in Shiraz is a special place with different features on each side. Let’s take a closer look at them.
Northern Side
On the northern side of the mosque, which faces the qibla (the direction of Mecca), there are two entrance doors. One is in the northeast, and the other is in the north. The northern entrance is called the Door of the Twelve Imams. There is also an ivan (a large vaulted hall) and a shabestan (a prayer area used at night). You can see four inscriptions with the names of the Twelve Imams and another inscription of Ali Johari near the main entrance.
The beautiful pearl-colored façade of the mosque has two tall minarets, and there are arches leading to the northern entrance. Behind the arches, there is a narrow shabestan. Inside the mosque, the large shabestan has five iron doors, and the eastern side of the pearl-colored dome has a lovely stone mihrab (a niche indicating the direction of prayer).
The Western Side
Moving to the western side of the mosque, which faces the sunset, there is an entrance door to the shrine of Shah Cheragh. This side also has ten-sided iwans (vaulted halls) with an entrance to the shabestan on the southern side.
On the southern side of the Jameh Mosque of Atigh, which faces away from the qibla, there is a wide and tall vault that was destroyed in the past but rebuilt in 1348. There is also an old shabestan with a small width in this section. It has a beautiful mihrab with a decorated ceiling and lovely blue tiles.
Next to this mihrab, you can find an ancient pulpit with thirteen steps. Another part of the mosque on the southern side called Nabi Wall, has a single-headed sign on top. Some people believe that the Prophet’s celestial vehicle moved from this point during the night ascension.
The Eastern Side
Moving to the eastern side of the mosque, which faces away from the sunset, there is a wide and tall vault with eight small vaults inside. On the left side, there are four small vaults with an ivan behind them. On the right side, there are four small vaults, and one of them is the exit door of the mosque.
This side also has a ruined shabestan, which used to be a place for prayer and a cultural center of the mosque. The staircase to the rooftop of the mosque is located here as well. There is an ivan with three-sided arches, and above it, there are inscriptions with verses from the Holy Quran.
The Courtyard
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh in Shiraz has a spacious courtyard paved with marble stones. In the center of the courtyard, there is a beautiful sanctuary. You can also find a large polygonal basin in the courtyard, although its construction date is unknown. Worshippers use the water from the basin for ablution before prayer.
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh Restoration
Throughout history, the mosque has undergone various restoration projects. The first restorations took place during the Atabakan period in the 6th century AH (Islamic calendar). Sultan Ibrahim also restored a part of the mosque during his reign.
The Safavid period is credited with another restoration. In 1921, the doors and inscriptions on the northern side were rebuilt and restored. The southern side underwent restoration in 1969, and in 1936, the Antiquities Organization, with the help of the people, participated in the mosque’s reconstruction.
Places to Visit in Jameh Mosque of Atigh
There are different sections in this historic mosque, including:
- Dar al-Masahif or Khoday-Khaneh Mosque;
- The Twelfth Imam Door and the Pearl Arch;
- The Mihrabs of Atiq Mosque;
- The Courtyards of Atiq Mosque.
Dar al-Masahif or Khoday-Khaneh Mosque
The Dar al-Masahif or Khoday-Khaneh Mosque was built in the year 752 AH (1351 CE), during the eighth century. It was ordered to be built by Shah Ismail Inju, the ruler of the Inju dynasty and a contemporary of the poet Hafez Shirazi. The mosque was constructed in the courtyard of the Jameh Mosque of Atigh in Shiraz, while the Inju dynasty was in power in Fars and Isfahan.
The mosque was named Dar al-Masahif or Khoday-Khaneh because it was used for writing and preserving the Quran.
The scribes would write the heavenly book there, and Quran reciters would come to recite it. The building has been renovated once, in the year 1315 AH (1897 CE). The Dar al-Masahif building is made of stone and gypsum. It has a square shape with a round column at each corner. There is a hall on each side of the building, and in the middle, there is a room that can be entered from the halls on the north and south sides.
In this part of the mosque, there used to be a thirty-page Quran from the time of Shah Ismail Safavi, with the name of the mosque written on each page. Today, this Quran is kept in the Pars Museum in Shiraz. The building also has an inscription, which is a valuable example of Iranian calligraphy. It contains Arabic poems written in a style called Thuluth. The calligrapher of this work is Yahya Jamali Sufi, who was a famous calligrapher in the eighth century AH.
The Twelfth Imam Door and the Pearl Arch (Northern side of the mosque)
One of the interesting parts of the Jameh Mosque of Atigh is the Twelfth Imam Door, located on the northern side of the mosque. It is a beautiful door decorated with colorful tiles and intricate designs. There is an inscription from the Safavid period at the top of the door, created by an artist named Ali Johari. The inscription indicates that the door was renovated in the year 1301 AH (1883 CE).
Next to the door, there is a small area for nighttime prayers. It has a stone prayer niche with verses from the Quran inscribed on it. Nowadays, this area is used for managing the affairs of the Jameh Mosque of Atiq in Shiraz. The Pearl Arch is a tall archway on the northern side of the mosque. It is adorned with two large and beautiful flower-like ornaments. The archway’s ceiling features lovely brickwork and decorative designs. In the western part of the archway, there is a staircase leading to the Twelfth Imam Door, and from the eastern side, one can access the large nighttime prayer area of the mosque.
The Courtyards of Jameh Mosque of Atigh
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh in Shiraz is a special place with four courtyards where people can gather and pray. If you want to see the main courtyard, you need to go to the western side of the mosque. This courtyard is really important and has five strong iron doors to protect it. Inside, you will find a beautiful stone mihrab, which is a special niche that shows the direction of Mecca for Muslims when they pray. It’s a special place for worship.
In the southern part of the mosque’s courtyard, there is another smaller courtyard. It’s not as big, but it still has its own unique beauty. You can also reach the northern courtyard by going through the Twelfth Imam Gate, which is a special entrance. It’s like going through a special door to reach a different part of the mosque.
There used to be a fourth courtyard on the eastern side of the mosque, but now only ruins remain. Many years ago, people would come here to pray, and it was an important part of the mosque’s activities. But now, it’s just a reminder of the past.
The Mihrabs of Atigh Mosque
The Jameh Mosque of Atigh in Shiraz has three special places called mihrabs. These mihrabs are really important in the mosque because they show the direction of Mecca, which is the holiest city for Muslims. In the main courtyard, there is a mihrab made of strong iron and beautiful marble. It’s really precious because it has special inscriptions and precious tiles. On these tiles, you can find sayings of the Prophet and verses from the Quran written in a special way. It’s like a beautiful artwork that adds to the beauty of the mosque.
In the southern courtyard, there is another mihrab that is really beautiful. It has amazing decorations and designs. On both sides of the mihrab, you will see big, magnificent spiral stone columns. The mihrab is decorated with blue tiles that create a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere in the mosque. Next to this mihrab, there is an old wooden pulpit with 13 steps. It’s like a special platform where someone can stand and give a sermon or speech.
The northern courtyard also has its own special mihrab. It’s made of marble and has beautiful inscriptions and engravings around it. It’s a place where people can come and pray, feeling the peace and spirituality of the mosque.
A Linguistic Journey at Jameh Mosque of Atigh
Embark on a remarkable adventure in the historical city of Shiraz, where the past and present seamlessly intertwine. Amidst the captivating attractions that Shiraz has to offer, there is a unique opportunity awaiting you at the splendid Jameh Mosque of Atigh. We proudly present a special program that combines cultural exploration with language learning, allowing you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Farsi.
Imagine strolling through the ancient courtyards of Jameh Mosque of Atigh, marveling at its architectural wonders, while simultaneously mastering the intricacies of the Persian language. Our team of experienced Persian language teachers will accompany you on this linguistic journey, guiding you through the nuances of Farsi in the very heart of this historical attraction.
Learning Farsi at Jameh Mosque of Atigh is an extraordinary experience that breathes life into your language studies. As you wander through the courtyards and absorb the rich historical ambiance, your language learning takes on a whole new dimension. The mosque becomes your classroom, and every step you take unravels a new aspect of the Persian language and its cultural significance.
Our immersive language program is designed to cater to learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced speakers. Whether you’re just starting your Farsi journey or seeking to enhance your existing language skills, our passionate teachers will tailor the lessons to your specific needs and proficiency level. Through engaging activities, interactive conversations, and cultural insights, you’ll find yourself making rapid progress in your language abilities.
But it doesn’t stop there. Learning Farsi while visiting iran’s attraction which is called Jameh Mosque of Atigh is just the beginning of your Iranian adventure. Shiraz, known as the city of poets and gardens, awaits your exploration. From the iconic Nasir-ol-Mulk Mosque to the serene Eram Garden and the legendary tomb of Hafez, Shiraz offers an abundance of historical and cultural treasures to discover.
So, dear language enthusiasts, join us in Iran to embark on a transformative journey of language learning and cultural immersion. Let the Jameh Mosque of Atigh in Shiraz be your gateway to unlocking the beauty of the Persian language and the captivating heritage of this enchanting city. Immerse yourself in Farsi, weave your own Persian tales, and create lifelong memories in the heart of Iran.
Unveiling the Splendor of Jameh Mosque of Atiq: Explore Shiraz’s Hidden Gem
As we conclude our journey through the historical wonders of Jameh Mosque of Atigh in Shiraz, we invite you to embark on your own adventure and experience the magic firsthand. The beauty and cultural significance of this hidden gem are truly unparalleled, and we understand that you may have further questions or require assistance in planning your visit.
If there are any inquiries that remain unanswered or if you seek a knowledgeable local guide to accompany you to this magnificent attraction or other tourist destinations in Shiraz, we are here to help. Our team of experts is passionate about showcasing the rich heritage of this city and ensuring that your visit is nothing short of extraordinary.
Whether you’re curious about the Jameh Mosque of Atigh’s architectural details, historical significance, or simply need assistance with logistics, we are just a call or message away. We can provide you with in-depth insights, recommended itineraries, and personalized suggestions to make your journey to Jameh Mosque of Atigh and other attractions in Shiraz truly unforgettable.
Shiraz, with its poetic charm and captivating allure, beckons you to explore its hidden treasures. From the breathtaking gardens to the mesmerizing shrines, and the vibrant bazaars to the aromatic tea houses, there is so much to discover in this cultural haven. Allow us to be your trusted companion, guiding you through the enchanting streets and illuminating the wonders that Shiraz has to offer.
Contact us with your questions, inquiries, or to arrange for a local leader who will accompany you on your journey through Jameh Mosque of Atigh and other remarkable destinations in Shiraz. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime, as you immerse yourself in the rich history and warm hospitality of this remarkable city.
FAQs
What is the historical significance of Jameh Mosque of Atigh?
Jameh Mosque of Atiq holds immense historical significance as one of the oldest mosques in Shiraz, dating back to the 9th century. It has witnessed centuries of Islamic architecture and cultural development, making it a remarkable testament to the city’s rich heritage.
Can non-Muslim visitors enter Jameh Mosque of Atigh?
Yes, non-Muslim visitors are welcome to explore Jameh Mosque of Atigh. However, it is important to respect the religious practices and customs of the mosque by dressing modestly and behaving respectfully during your visit.
Can I take photographs inside the mosque?
Photography is generally allowed inside Jameh Mosque of Atigh, but it is advisable to ask for permission or check with the mosque staff before taking pictures, as certain areas may have restrictions.
What are the mosque’s visiting hours?
The exact visiting hours of Jameh Mosque of Atigh may vary; however, it is open everyday for saying prayers.
Are there any nearby attractions to visit in Shiraz?
Yes, Shiraz is renowned for its rich cultural and historical attractions. Some notable nearby places include Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Eram Garden, Hafez Tomb, and the vibrant Vakil Bazaar. Exploring these attractions alongside Jameh Mosque of Atiq will offer a comprehensive experience of Shiraz’s heritage.
