Masjid Jami

 

Masjid Jami - Qazvin

The Masjid Jami is one of the oldest mosques in Iran. The oldest part of the mosque is said to have been constructed by the orders of Harun al-Rashid in 807CE. Later additions were made, the last being during the late Safavid era. The double layered main dome of the mosque is from the Seljuk era, and is locked to the public. It houses some precious examples of relief calligraphy from medieval times. Renovations have also been carried out on many sections of the mosque.

The foundation of the mosque is laid on a Zoroastrian fire temple. In spite of the devastating Mongol invasion, the mosque still stands today in its full glory. It is still in use. Parts of the mosque have been turned into a public library. The mosque also contains a Shabestan and Ab anbar, both now under the protection of Iran's Cultural Heritage Organization.

Jameh (Friday) Mosque -Minaret and tiles

I was quite impressed by the intricate tilework and variety of colours used in adorning the minaret. Majid pointed out the deep pink / light reddish coloured tiles - apparently this was the first use of the colour in tile making, and so was very unusual.

There are 2 minarets in this mosque, although my photos only show one. Shiite mosques can usually be identified by having 2 minarets, while Sunni mosques generally have only 1. However this rule doesnI was quite impressed by the intricate tilework and variety of colours used in adorning the minaret. Majid pointed out the deep pink / light reddish coloured tiles - apparently this was the first use of the colour in tile making, and so was very unusual.

There are 2 minarets in this mosque, although my photos only show one. Shiite mosques can usually be identified by having 2 minarets, while Sunni mosques generally have only 1. However this rule doesn't always apply.'t always apply.

Jameh (Friday) Mosque - Entrance Portal

I thought this covered entrance was one of the gems of the mosque, partly due to its stunning tiles, and also as it led through a winding passage, that slowly opened out to reveal the inner courtyard.

Jameh (Friday) Mosque - Dome

For me, the tiled domes of the mosques are one of the main images of Iran. I took numerous shots of these during my trip.

The blue tiled dome of the Jameh Mosque is double layered and due to its extra weight, it is supported by extra buttresses

Jameh (Friday) Mosque or Jame' Atiq Mosque

This Mosque is one of the oldest in Iran. It is noted for its fine marble mirhab (pic ) and huge iwans. Iwans (or eivan in Farsi), are a typical feature of Iranian architecture. They are rectangular halls that open onto a courtyard. Some are very ornately decorated with tilework, mirror work and rare woods.

The mosques foundations sit on the site of a former Zoroastrian fire temple, which was destroyed, before work could begin under the orders of Harun - al - Rashid as far back as 807 CE. Under the Selvids, the building became a mosque.
It has undergone many re- designs and restorations, particularly in the 17th century. Surprisingly, it survived the Mongol invasion, when many fine buildings were razed to the ground.

The Friday mosque is the place of worship for the citizens of Qazvin on the Muslim holy day-Friday.

From the street outside, the mosque doesn't reveal too much of its hidden treasures, but as you follow the winding path , through to a covered gateway, you arrive into the light of the rectanguar courtyard

At the time of my visit, there was a party of female students measuring different parts of the mosques courtyard and buildings.

·  Directions: Off Shohoda Street, which is South of Azadi Square. According to my map, its opposite Sohoda Square.