The Agha Bozorg Mosque : A Gem of Kashan + video

The Agha Bozorg Mosque (Persian: مسجد آقا بزرگ Masjed-e Āghā Bozorg) is a historical mosque in Kashan, Iran. The mosque was built in the late 18th century by master-mi’mar Ustad Haj Sa’ban-ali. The mosque and theological school (madrasah) is located in the center of the city.

The mosque is named after Molla Mahdi Naraghi II, also known as Mulla Mohammad Naraqi, who was a prominent Shiite scholar and theologian. He was given the title of “Agha Bozorg” (literally meaning “big or great lord”) by the Shah himself. The mosque was built to serve as a place for his prayers, preaching, and teaching sessions.

The mosque is a fine example of Qajar architecture. It is symmetrical in design, with two large iwans (arched gateways) facing each other across the courtyard. The iwan in front of the mihrab (prayer niche) is larger than the other and has two minarets. The courtyard is surrounded by arcades and has a central pool. The mosque also has a sunken courtyard that is used for summer prayers.

The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate tilework, muqarnas (stalactite-like vaulting), and calligraphy. The mihrab is particularly ornate, with elaborate tilework and Quranic inscriptions.

The Agha Bozorg Mosque is one of the most important historical and architectural monuments in Kashan. It is a popular tourist destination and is considered a masterpiece of Qajar architecture.

Here are some of the key features of the Agha Bozorg Mosque:

• It is a five-story building, with the mosque on the first floor and the madrasa below.
• The mosque has two large iwans, one in front of the mihrab and the other by the entrance.
• The courtyard has a second court in the middle which comprises a garden with trees and a fountain.
• The iwan in front of mehrab has two minarets with a brick dome.
• The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate tilework, muqarnas, and calligraphy.
• The mihrab is particularly ornate, with elaborate tilework and Quranic inscriptions.

The Agha Bozorg Mosque is a valuable cultural and historical asset for Iran. It is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Qajar architects and artists who built it. The mosque is a must-see for any visitor to Kashan.

Here are some interesting facts about the Agha Bozorg Mosque:

• The mosque was built over a period of 10 years, from 1834 to 1844.
• The architect, Ustad Haj Sa’ban-ali, also designed the Borujerdiha House, another famous landmark in Kashan.
• The mosque is made of brick, with the exterior walls covered in blue and turquoise tiles.
• The interior of the mosque is decorated with intricate tilework, muqarnas, and calligraphy.
• The mosque is a popular tourist destination and is considered a masterpiece of Qajar architecture.

The Agha Bozorg Mosque is a beautiful and impressive building that is a testament to the rich Islamic architectural heritage of Iran. It is a must-see for any visitor to Kashan.