Tabriz Citadel Mosque: a gem of Ilkhani architecture
Tabriz Citadel Mosque, also known as Alisha Mosque, shines like a turquoise gem in the heart of Tabriz city. This mosque, which is a relic of the proud era of the Mughal patriarchs, attracts many tourists every year with its magnificent architecture and stunning decorations.
A turbulent history:
The construction of Tabriz Citadel Mosque was started in 716 AH by the order of Khwaja Tajuddin Alishah, the powerful minister of the Ilkhanate. The construction of this mosque lasted for 8 years and was completed in 724 AH. Alisha Mosque was one of the largest and most magnificent mosques in Iran and was known as the religious and political center of Tabriz city.
But this mosque was damaged many times during its history due to earthquakes and wars. In the earthquake of 1193 AH, the dome of the mosque collapsed and many other parts of the mosque were also damaged. During the Iran-Russia wars, the Alisha Mosque was captured by the Russians and used as a military barracks by them.
Despite these damages, Tabriz Citadel Mosque has been restored many times and still remains as one of the most important historical monuments of Iran.
Admirable architecture:
Tabriz Citadel Mosque consists of two parts: Ivan and Shabestan. The porch of the mosque is very long and lofty and is decorated with mosaic tiles. On the top of the porch, there is an inscription in Tholt script, on which Surah Mubarakare Rahman is written.
The nave of Tabriz Citadel Mosque has 20 columns that support the transept arches. The roof of the nave is decorated with brick tiles.
Eye-catching decorations:
Tabriz Citadel Mosque is decorated with mosaic tiles, plastering and painting. The tiling of the mosque is considered to be one of the most beautiful tilings of the Ilkhanid era. In these tilings, slimy, geometric and khatai motifs have been used.
The stucco moldings of Tabriz Citadel Mosque are also very beautiful and delicate. Islamic, geometric and human motifs have been used in these plasters.
Current user:
Tabriz Citadel Mosque is currently used as a museum. In this museum, objects and historical works related to the era of the Mughal patriarchs are exhibited.
