Jameh Mosque of Yazd
The Jameh Mosque, also known as Masjed-e Jame, stands as a remarkable masterpiece of Persian architecture from the Timurid era in Iran. As one of the oldest Islamic monuments in Yazd, its rich history and captivating features make it a must-see destination.
History
Originating in the 12th century, this mosque emerged on the grounds of a former Sassanid fire temple in Yazd. However, it underwent a splendid reconstruction during the 14th and 15th centuries. Notably, the elegant dome harks back to the Ilkhanid era, while the entrance and other sections, were erected during the reign of Shahrukh Shah and beyond. Notably, the towering minarets integrated into the mosque’s design during the flourishing Safavid era. The present-day mosque is a harmonious fusion of three previously distinct mosques, which were unified during the Qajar era.
Description
The Jameh Mosque of Yazd is renowned for its enchanting Persian blue tiles adorned with intricate floral motifs, ornate mosaics, and intricate brick embellishments. Spanning an impressive 104 meters in length and 99 meters in width, the mosque boasts seven portals, each accessible from different alleys. The primary entrance, adjacent to Yazd’s historic Bazar, becomes a radiant spectacle when illuminated at night. The entrance’s twin minarets, standing at a towering 52 meters with an 8-meter diameter, offer an awe-inspiring welcome to worshippers. Adorned in a splendid palette of blue, turquoise, and green tiles, the entrance leads to a spacious courtyard encompassing a single rectangular iwan and worship halls on either side. Notably, the western worship hall features exquisite pillar work, echoing the opulence found throughout the mosque. The ceiling’s dominant blue tile motif artfully represents the heavens. This adjacent hall has been transformed into a museum showcasing a collection of precious historical artifacts.
The Yazd Jameh mosque’s dome boasts a dual-layer design that preserves a refreshing indoor atmosphere despite the scorching external temperatures. Beyond its architectural significance, the mosque’s square shape symbolizes the Kaaba in Mecca, adding a profound spiritual dimension. A remarkable array of calligraphy adorns various sections of the mosque, with white Quranic calligraphy set against a backdrop of blue tiles, creating an exquisite visual harmony. The dome, mihrab, and interior spaces are adorned with tasteful decorations in shades of blue, yellow, and green, crafting an inviting ambiance that enchants visitors.
The mosque ingeniously utilizes indirect sunlight, leveraging the reflective properties of the white dome and walls to provide ample illumination. Essential water for the mosque is supplied through the world’s longest qanat, the qanat Zarch, which channels water to key areas of the city, including the Jameh Mosque. Accessible via a staircase, this water source serves as a testament to the mosque’s thoughtful engineering. The mosque also houses an extensive library, housing a wealth of historic manuscripts and documents. Notably, a separate prayer hall is designated for women, positioned to the right of the main prayer hall. An intriguing hidden tunnel connects this space to the mihrab, allowing women to directly engage with the imam.
Visiting Hour
Enthusiasts of architecture and history can immerse themselves in the Yazd Jameh Mosque’s splendor from 7:00 a.m. to 8 p.m. Witness the harmonious convergence of Persian artistry, spiritual symbolism, and innovative design that defines this extraordinary monument.
