“Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque“, “Pink Mosque”, and “Rainbow Masque” are just a few of the names that this mosque is called. It is where colors and worshiping intertwine, to paint a picture of fine art and manifest the inner colorful feelings of a prayer. Although it was constructed more than 100 years ago, it has grown more and more popular every year, to the point that it is no longer a religious center, but a full-time tourist attraction!
So, let’s follow Irantourism‘s article as an Iran Travel Guide Center on Pink Mosque to learn more about this spectacular religious place:
Overlook of Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque
Accessibility: If you are planning to get to the Metro of Shiraz City, you have to get off at Shahrdari or Valiasr station. Either station you choose, you’ll have a 15-minute’ walk to get to this masterpiece of Iranian architecture, Rainbow Masque.
There is also the bus option as a public transport means, available from the city center and Namazi bus terminal or you can take a Snapp online taxi from your place to this historical site.
Open days and hours: Saturdays to Thursdays, from 8 a.m to 6 p.m
ticket price: 500,000 RLS
A Summary of Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque
Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, also known as the “Pink Mosque,” stands as a masterpiece of Persian architecture and artistry. Located in Shiraz, Iran, this enchanting mosque is celebrated for its stunning stained glass windows and the mesmerizing play of light they create. Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque was constructed during the late 19th century under the rule of Mirza Hasan Ali Nasir al Molk, from whom it derives its name.
The mosque’s exterior is a testament to traditional Islamic design, with a beautiful combination of turquoise and deep pink tiles adorning its façade. However, it is the interior that truly captivates visitors. Upon entering the mosque in the morning, the sunlight filters through its intricate stained glass windows, casting a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors onto the Persian carpets and walls. This remarkable display of light has earned the mosque its nickname, the “Pink Mosque.”
One of the most renowned features of Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque is its winter prayer hall, which boasts a magnificent array of stained glass windows, intricate tilework, and wooden columns. The geometric patterns and floral motifs found in the stained glass are nothing short of mesmerizing, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and spirituality.
Visitors to Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque often arrive early in the morning to witness this enchanting spectacle of light and color. The interplay between architecture and nature during the sunrise hours is truly a sight to behold, making it a photographer’s dream. It’s no wonder that this mosque has become a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Persian architecture and culture.
In addition to its architectural marvels, Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque remains an active place of worship, hosting daily prayers and religious gatherings. This duality, where the spiritual and the aesthetic coexist harmoniously, is a testament to the enduring significance of Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque in both the religious and cultural life of Iran. For tourists, it offers not only a visual feast but also a deep appreciation of the rich cultural heritage of this remarkable country.
The Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque was constructed around 100 years ago, a masterpiece to show and preserve Iranian Architecture for the future. Every aspect of it is based on mathematical laws and coincides well with the atmosphere and the region’s natural habitat. The mosaic works on Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque are one of a kind and a reference point for every mosque that was built after it, up to this day.
The stained glasses of Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque were a grand revolution in the design of the mosques back in the day, and even now it is a rarity to have such colorful windows in the mosques.
The Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque is located in the old Shiraz neighborhood, where many other historical sights of Shiraz are gathered. Along with that, the design of this neighborhood, the narrow-entangled street with high walls to protect from the harsh sunshine and old houses can give you an idea of how old Iranian cities and Iranian architecture used to be.
Design of Pink Mosque
The Pink mosque consists of two praying rooms and a main yard. The western prayer Hall was usually used during summer and for holding classes.
The Eastern Prayer Hall of Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, however, is where the genius lies. The mosaic works are one of a kind. The floor of the mosque is covered with colorful rugs with patterns representing the spring. The columns are carved out of single blocks of stone and are still considered a masterpiece last but not least, the colorfully stained glasses added to the building a couple of years after its construction, are the most famous aspects of this building. Also, the ceiling of this Hall is covered in spectacular mosaics, which makes it hard for you to take your eyes away from it.
A Tip about the Pink Mosque
For the best experience when visiting the Pink Mosque, consider going early in the morning to witness the sun streaming through the stained glass windows, providing a spectacular view of the Eastern Prayer Hall.
Alternatively, visiting after sunset when the interior lights illuminate the colorful mosaics of the main yard through the glass, creating a mesmerizing play of colorful shades, is also highly recommended.
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