Rangooniha Mosque
Abadan offers numerous attractions for tourists, one of which is the Rangooni Mosque. This mosque has a unique and distinct building structure, and its name is related to the colors of Abadan’s residents. The architecture of the mosque is reminiscent of Indian buildings. The story behind its construction is fascinating and worth hearing. The mosque dates back to the 1910s and has been renovated recently. Rangooniha Mosque is located a short distance from Arvand-Rud and is a must-see destination for tourists due to its charm and beauty.
History
The Rangooni Mosque, also known as the Rangooniha by the locals in Abadan, was constructed in Abadan with Indian architecture and with the help of Burmese Rangooniha. Although Abadan in Khuzestan province was far from India and Rangoon, it was chosen for refinery construction due to its location next to the Karun River, which allowed for the construction of an oil export wharf next to it. As a result, the British brought in several Burmese engineers and workers to Abadan to benefit from their experience in the oil industry. Some immigrants were from India, Pakistan, and Myanmar (formerly Burma). The Rangooniha Mosque was built at the same time near the refinery, with financial assistance from Rangoon Muslim immigrants. The construction of this building began in 1911 and continued for about seven years until its completion in 1920.
Mosque architecture
The architects who designed the Rangooni Mosque were from India, which is why the mosque has an Indian architectural style. The mosque features four small domes and two minarets, and its exterior is decorated with colorful cement and prominent carvings. Although it may look like plaster, the decoration is made of cement. The mosque also incorporates mirrors, a popular element in Iranian palace decoration. Some building materials, including paint, were imported from India to Iran for use in the mosque’s construction. The building itself is made of bricks and features lime and mud mortar. The altar is a wonderful part of the mosque, with a stunning design of geometric shapes and intricate patterns in vibrant colors. The roof structure is also interesting, with a unique combination of oil pipes, railway rails, and reinforcement used in place of the main beam.
Visiting hours
Before planning to visit the Rangooni Mosque, it’s important to note that the mosque is not open to the public all year round, but only on special occasions. It is advisable to contact the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department of Abadan in advance to inquire about the working hours of the Rangooniha Mosque. This will help you plan your visit accordingly and avoid any inconvenience.
