Jameh Mosque of Isfahan

The Jameh Mosque (or the Friday Mosque) in Isfahan exemplifies the evolution of mosque architecture in Iran over twelve centuries, beginning in 841 AD. It stands as the oldest surviving structure of its kind in the country, which served as a model for subsequent mosque designs across Central Asia. Its ribbed, double-layered domes represent an architectural innovation that influenced builders throughout the region.

The history of the construction of the Friday Mosque in Isfahan

In 1051, Isfahan was established as the capital of the Seljuk state, which had emerged from Central Asia in the 11th century. As proponents of Sunnism, the Seljuks aimed to restore the caliphate. Tughril Beg's conquest of Isfahan elevated the city's status, reflected in grand architectural projects symbolising the strength of the Seljuk Empire, with the first being the Friday Mosque.

The Seljuks designed their city centre and a square near the existing Friday Mosque. However, in 1602, the Safavid ruler Shah Abbas replaced the Seljuk square with his newly constructed Naqsh-e Jahan Square, shifting the city centre to the south.

It is certain that the Friday Mosque existed on this site prior to the Seljuk conquest of Isfahan. However, the capture of the city, subsequent riots, religious conflicts between the Hanafi and Shiite sects under the rule of Malik Shah, and a devastating fire caused significant damage to the mosque. In the aftermath, some of its original architectural elements were restored, while new features were added.

The Friday Mosque as Iran's historical heritage

What sets the mosque apart is its seamless integration with the city square through numerous gates and entrances, which dissolve the boundaries between the urban space and the mosque. It is also distinguished by its layered history of construction and reconstruction, resulting in a complex comprising structures from various periods.