Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Tabriz, the iconic Blue Mosque (Masjed-e Kabud) stands as a masterpiece of 15th-century Persian architecture. Renowned for its brilliant blue tiles and awe-inspiring design, this mosque is one of Iran’s most visually striking and historically significant landmarks.
Commissioned in 1465 by Jahan Shah, ruler of the Qara Qoyunlu dynasty, the Blue Mosque quickly became a celebrated symbol of Persian-Islamic art. Unfortunately, a devastating earthquake in 1773 destroyed much of the original complex. Remarkably, the mosque’s main iwan (entrance portal) remained intact, and reconstruction efforts over the centuries have preserved the site’s majestic aura.
Once a large complex including a library, khaneghah (Sufi lodge), and other structures, the Blue Mosque today is defined by its grand iwan, brick domes, and mesmerizing tilework. The mosque follows a traditional Persian layout, centered around a spacious square courtyard with a central ablution pool and surrounding prayer halls.
The mosque’s main dome, with a 30-meter diameter, sits atop the central prayer hall and is flanked by smaller domes on all sides. In total, nine domes—large and small—adorn the prayer areas and entrance chambers. The double-layered brick roofing is a hallmark of 15th-century Iranian engineering.
The true brilliance of the mosque lies in its northern façade, where deep blue majolica tiles shimmer in the sunlight. These tiles, embellished with intricate Islamic calligraphy and floral motifs, cover nearly every surface, creating an almost celestial ambiance. The vivid color palette and tile artistry earned the mosque its nickname: the “Turquoise of Islam.”
Plan Your Visit – Opening Hours and What to Expect
The Blue Mosque welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or a curious traveler, a visit to this historic gem promises a soul-stirring journey through Persian history and design.
For historical background and architectural details, visit the Wikipedia article.
To explore academic architectural insights, see Archnet’s Blue Mosque profile.
