Iranian mosques are considered wonders and attractions of Iran, built after Islam’s advent in Iran. Beautiful Iranian mosques reflect the essence of Iranian art and architecture. Some of these structures are internationally renowned as masterpieces of Islamic Iranian architecture, attracting tourists annually to Iran. These mosques have been constructed in such a way, without modern facilities, that they are unparalleled in design and symmetry worldwide.

List of Beautiful Mosques in Iran

So far, the census statistics of Iranian mosques have reached over 70,000, and some of these have become important and famous due to their prominent and distinct features compared to other mosques. In this article from Kental Travel, we intend to introduce you to the most beautiful Iranian mosques so you can have sufficient information about them.

Nasir Ol Molk Mosque, Shiraz

Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran, located in Shiraz, with its origins dating back to the Qajar period. Today, this beloved mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, is considered one of Shiraz’s most popular tourist attractions, attracting great attention from domestic and international tourists. In 1876, Nasir al-Mulk, also known as Mirza Hasan Ali Khan, the ruler of Fars, ordered the mosque’s construction. It took 11 years to complete the construction and decoration of the building in 1887 but without its famous stained glass windows. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque showcases a collection of exquisite Iranian art in its unique architecture. From its masterful exterior and interior design to its intricate and artistic muqarnas and tile works, this place shines like a gem in the crown of Iran’s historical attractions.

Jameh Mosque, Yazd

Yazd Jame Mosque is a historic and important mosque in Iran with over 900 years of history and is considered an architectural marvel by historians and architectural scholars. The architecture of this building follows the Azeri style. The construction of the original Jame Mosque of Yazd began in the 6th century AH (12th century CE), and its initial founder was Ala al-Dawla Kalanjar from the Albooyeh dynasty. After its destruction, Sayyid Rukn al-Din Nazam al-Husseini built the current Jame Mosque in 1345. The building covers an area of 9,800 square meters and includes:

• A tall courtyard.
• A dome chamber.
• Two summer prayer halls on its sides.
• Two winter prayer halls on the eastern and western sides.
• A large rectangular courtyard.

The decorative elements used in the Jame Mosque of Yazd are symbolic representations closely related to Shia Islam’s beliefs.

Imam Mosque, Esfahan

Imam Mosque, also known as Jame Abbasi Mosque, Sultan Mosque, and Shah Mosque, is one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran and Isfahan, located in Naqsh-e Jahan Square, built during the Safavid era. Imam Mosque is a timeless masterpiece of architecture from the 11th century AH (17th century CE) and was registered as one of Iran’s national treasures with registration number 107 on January 5, 1932. Located on the southern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Imam Mosque is close to other important structures of the Safavid period, such as Ali Qapu Palace and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque.

The mosque’s construction began by order of Shah Abbas I in 1621 AH (1020 AH) during the fourth year of his reign, aiming to beautify the square. In 1626 AH (1025 AH), while other parts of the mosque were still under construction, the exquisite mosaic tilework of its dome was completed. This mosque is a valuable example of Persian tilework and stonemasonry art from the 11th century. One interesting feature of this mosque is the sound reflection in the central dome. The height of the grand southern dome from the ground level is 52 meters, while the height of the minarets inside the mosque is 48 meters, and the height of the minarets on Naqsh-e Jahan Square is 42 meters.

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Esfahan

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is one of the historical remnants of the Safavid era, and it’s a beautiful mosque to visit in Iran. It is located on the eastern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan and is an astonishing example of design, architecture, patterns, and colors used. This historic mosque was built between 1602 and 1619 AD, over 18 years, under the command of Shah Abbas I. It was constructed opposite Ali Qapu Palace and in proximity to Shah Mosque. The main reason for constructing this mosque was to honor a religious figure named Sheikh Lotfollah Meschi, one of the great scholars of the Safavid period.

The architectural style of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque follows the Isfahani architectural techniques. However, it has a major difference compared to all other mosques built across the country, as it lacks minarets and an entrance porch. Instead, its entrance has several steps. The tilework of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is among the beautiful examples of Iranian art, which can be seen throughout the mosque. Attention to detail, intricate designs, and vibrant and unique colors are architectural marvels of the Safavid era, well-executed in Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque.

Fatima Masumeh Shrine, Qom

The Holy Shrine of Hazrat Masoumeh (AS) is the second most important religious attraction and beautiful shrine in Iran after the Shrine of Imam Reza (AS). Hazrat Masoumeh (AS) was the daughter of Imam Musa Kazem (AS) and the sister of Imam Reza (AS), and that is why this holy shrine annually receives millions of domestic and international pilgrims. In 605 AH, by order of “Amir Mozaffar Ahmad ibn Ismail,” a prominent member of the Mozaffarid dynasty, the greatest tile master of that time, “Mohammad ibn Abi Tahir Kashani,” began the construction and tilework of the diverse tombs. After eight years, when the tiles were ready, they were installed.

In addition to its religious significance among Muslims, this shrine also holds great historical importance, and it can be considered one of the important historical attractions of Qom. The Holy Shrine of Hazrat Masoumeh (AS) consists of various sections such as a library, museum, courtyard, entrance porch, and more, all adorned with stucco, tilework, and mirrorwork. It might be interesting to know that several kings from the Safavid and Qajar dynasties and notable figures like Parvin Etesami are buried in this shrine, visiting their tombs an enjoyable experience.

Blue Mosque, Tabriz

Blue Mosque is one of the oldest historical and beautiful mosques in Iran and is currently one of the four Blue Mosques in the world. Blue Mosque in Tabriz (Mozaffariyah Mansion) had remained in ruins for over 150 years until the decision to reconstruct it was made in 1939. The reconstruction began with the domes and foundations, and it took over 50 years to complete the restoration of the main dome and the dome of the southern courtyard of Blue Mosque. This mosque is inspired by Azerbaijani architectural style. The architectural feature of the mosque is the presence of captivating woodwork and the predominant turquoise color. Blue Mosque has two domes, including the main dome of the courtyard and the dome of the southern courtyard of the mosque.

Agha Bozorg Mosque, Kashan

Agha Bozorg Mosque, a Beautiful mosque in Iran, was built in the mid-13th century AH during the reign of Mohammad Shah and Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. This historical masterpiece was constructed at the request and efforts of Mulla Mohammad Mehdi Naraghi, known as Agha Bozorg, with the financial support of a benevolent individual named Hajj Mohammad Taghi Khanban. The fame of Agha Bozorg Mosque lies in the precision and symmetry employed in its architecture. This five-story building (the only five-story mosque in the world) is noteworthy for its grandeur and beauty and its practical design. Like many similar structures in Iran, this historic building was a mosque and a school. This mosque was primarily built to hold prayer sessions, sermons, and teachings. Agha Bozorg Mosque and School were registered as national heritage sites in Iran on the 11th of Azar, 1330 SH.

Goharshad Mosque, Mashhad

One of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Iran is “Goharshad Mosque” in Mashhad. This mosque was built by “Goharshad Begum,” the wife of one of the Timurid kings (Shah Rukh Timurid). The intricacy and beauty of the tilework in Goharshad Mosque showcase the art and Islamic architecture brilliantly. Goharshad Mosque is considered a masterpiece of Iranian architecture and art during the Timurid era. The magnificent dome of this mosque, measuring 41 meters, adorned with glazed bricks and Kufic calligraphy, has transformed it into one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran. If you visit the Shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad, we highly recommend not missing the opportunity to see this mosque with its exquisite Islamic architecture.

Vakil Mosque, Shiraz

Vakil Mosque in Shiraz is one of the historical landmarks of this city, similar to Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, dating back to the Zand dynasty. The construction of this beautiful mosque in Iran took place in 1187 AH, coinciding with the construction of Vakil Bazaar during the reign of Karim Khan Zand. Vakil Mosque covers an area of over 8,660 square meters. It is built with 48 columns, creating a mysterious atmosphere in its courtyard. Many tourists consider the Vakil Mosque in Shiraz one of Iran’s most gorgeous mosques. The reason behind this is the presence of a tall dome adorned with turquoise tilework, constructed on the northern side of the mosque and named “Marble Dome.” One of the blessed chapters of the Quran is inscribed on this dome, creating a mystical ambiance.

Shah Cheragh Mosque, Shiraz

Shah Cheragh Mosque, one of the most beautiful Masjed in Iran, was built in Shiraz in 750 AH. Shah Cheragh in Shiraz is the burial place of the great son of the seventh Imam of the Shiites and the mausoleum of Imam Reza’s brother. The founder of this beautiful mosque is the mother of one of the kings of Fars, Queen Tashi Khatoon. With this mosque’s construction and a school’s establishment nearby, this lady has left valuable and historical structures in Shiraz. The unique architecture of this mosque speaks of the beauty and taste of Iranian art. When you enter Shah Cheragh Mosque, a world of Iranian art and beauty appears before your eyes. The blue-colored dome alongside the golden minarets, the mirrorwork on the doors and walls of the mosque, and the reflection of light in the mosque’s space create a truly spiritual place for you. The tilework and mirrorwork in this beautiful mosque in Iran, along with Arabic and Persian calligraphy, have greatly contributed to enhancing the beauty of this mosque.

FAQs About Beautiful Mosques to Visit in Iran

• How many mosques are in Iran?
  So far, the census statistics of Iranian mosques have reached over 70,000