Located in the heart of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Isfahan, the Shah Mosque captivates visitors with its stunning turquoise-tiled dome and four elegant minarets. Built over 400 years ago, it is celebrated as one of the finest masterpieces of Persian architecture and a symbol of the Safavid dynasty’s grandeur.
The mosque was completed around 1629 during the reign of Shah Abbas the Great, a period marked by the Safavid Empire’s prosperity and architectural brilliance. The Shah Mosque reflects the pinnacle of Safavid artistry and urban design.
Renowned for its colorful tilework, calligraphy, and geometric designs, the mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination in Isfahan. Its grand entrance portal, standing about 30 meters tall, contrasts beautifully with the decorated portal of the Historic Bazaar opposite the square. The portal is adorned with intricate mosaics featuring floral motifs, geometric patterns, and elegant calligraphy.
Inside, a rectangular courtyard features a decorative pool and is surrounded by four iwans on each side. The walls are decorated with blue and yellow tiles, creating a visually stunning environment. From the courtyard, visitors can admire the royal turquoise dome, an iconic symbol of Isfahan’s architectural heritage.
The mosque’s sanctuaries lie beyond the iwans, with the southern sanctuary serving as the main prayer hall. The interior decorations are breathtaking, and visitors can enjoy views of the turquoise minarets rising above the entrance portal against the sky.
Shah Mosque is open from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., though visiting hours may vary on Fridays due to Friday prayers.
Explore the architectural brilliance and historical significance of the Shah Mosque in Isfahan at Archnet.
