Agha Bozorg Mosque
The Agha Bozorg Mosque, renowned for its exquisite beauty and symmetrical design, stands as an alluring edifice in Kashan.
History
Constructed during the late 18th century in the Qajar era, the Agha Bozorg Mosque in Kashan takes its name from a distinguished theologian and moral philosopher, along with his son.
Description
Resembling the charming residences of Kashan, the Agha Bozorg Mosque boasts a spacious layout designed with a sunken courtyard architectural style. This approach, prevalent in desert cities of Iran, effectively moderates the scorching summer temperatures and soil moisture.
Fascinatingly, the Agha Bozorg Mosque features two grand courtyards—one recessed below ground level—four stories, elegantly adorned minarets, a brick dome, towering windcatchers, and two iwans. One iwan graces the entrance, while the other stands adjacent to the mihrab. The principal iwan, positioned before the mihrab, showcases twin graceful minarets and a distinctive brick dome. This dome rests upon a room supported by eight robust pillars, an unusual architectural element in Iran. Additionally, the mosque encompasses three worship halls, including the rear and main worship areas, embellished with fine mihrab.
Within the courtyard, a secondary sunken area encompasses a substantial pool, a fountain, and a garden adorned with flowers and trees. Surrounding this area is a theological school, its integration with the mosque reflecting a harmonious blend. The mosque and school combine to create an ideal space for the theologian and moral philosopher who once taught and prayed here. Another smaller courtyard at the rear of the mosque once served as a repository for snow collected from the dome.
The Agha Bozorg Mosque is bedecked with splendid ornaments featuring intricate patterns that exalt its grandeur. The dome and minarets are adorned with colorful tiles that captivate all who behold them. The mud-brick walls and wooden front door are embellished with verses from the Quran. Gazing upon the mosque’s minarets and dome, one can truly appreciate its architectural finesse while finding solace in its tranquil atmosphere. Beyond its captivating architectural style, the spiritual aura of the Agha Bozorg Mosque enchants every visitor.
Visiting Hours
The Agha Bozorg Mosque in Kashan extends a warm welcome to visitors between 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., providing an opportunity to bask in the mosque’s beauty and the splendor of Persian architecture.