The Agha Bozorg Mosque is one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Kashan, Iran. Celebrated for its harmonious symmetry and stunning desert-adapted design, this mosque is a remarkable blend of spirituality, aesthetic brilliance, and functional ingenuity.
Built in the late 18th century during the Qajar dynasty, the Agha Bozorg Mosque was named after a revered theologian and moral philosopher, known as Agha Bozorg. He, along with his son, played a significant role in Kashan’s religious and intellectual life. The mosque served both as a place of worship and a center for theological education.
The mosque showcases the sunken courtyard style, a clever architectural solution commonly used in Iran’s arid cities to manage heat and preserve moisture. The design is both functional and beautiful, creating a naturally cool environment.
Highlights of the Agha Bozorg Mosque include:
Two magnificent courtyards, including a sunken inner courtyard with a central pool, fountain, and garden.
A grand brick dome resting on eight strong pillars — a rare design in Iranian architecture.
Two elegant iwans: one at the entrance and one near the mihrab, with the main iwan featuring twin minarets.
Four levels, each seamlessly integrated into the structure.
Three prayer halls, with beautifully ornamented mihrabs.
A traditional hawze (water basin) surrounded by flowering plants and trees.
An attached madrasa (religious school), reflecting the mosque’s dual role in both education and worship.
A small rear courtyard that was once used as a snow repository — a creative solution for water preservation in the desert.
The mosque is richly adorned with geometric tilework, mud-brick walls, Quranic inscriptions, and a carved wooden entrance door, all contributing to its serene and majestic ambiance.
Beyond its architectural beauty, the Agha Bozorg Mosque exudes a powerful spiritual presence. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with its artistic elegance, provides a deeply moving experience for visitors and worshippers alike.
The Agha Bozorg Mosque is open to the public daily from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Visitors are invited to explore its breathtaking architecture and feel the calm serenity of this Persian masterpiece.
For more insights into Persian Islamic architecture, visit:
ArchNet – Agha Bozorg Mosque Profile
