Vakil Mosque, Shiraz: like a gem in the heart of history
The Vakil Mosque of Shiraz is like a gem from the Zandiye era that shines in the heart of Shiraz. This mosque dates back to about 250 years ago and was built by order of Karim Khan Zand, the powerful king of Zandiyeh.
The architecture of Vakil Mosque is a reflection of the taste of Iranians in that period. The lofty porch with tall columns and tiled decorations, a turquoise pool in the middle of the mosque’s courtyard with beautiful fountains, and spacious and clean shabestans, all have created a unique and memorable atmosphere in this mosque.
Various decorations have been used in the Vakil Mosque, among which the following items can be mentioned:
Tiling: beautiful tiling with slim and geometric designs is used in the porch, the naves, and minarets of the mosque. The colors of the glazed tiles are also very attractive and pleasant.
Plastering: delicate and artistic plastering has been used in the altar, pulpit, and ceiling of the mosque. These stuccoes are decorated with slime designs, flowers, and animals.
Calligraphy: In the inscriptions of the mosque, beautiful calligraphy with Nastaliq and Tholut lines are used. These calligraphies depict verses of the Qur’an and hadiths of the innocents.
In addition to its external beauty, Vakil Mosque also has historical value. This mosque has witnessed important events throughout history and many prominent officials and personalities have visited it. Among others, we can mention Karim Khan Zand, Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar, Naseruddin Shah Qajar, and Reza Shah Pahlavi.
Today, as one of the most important tourist attractions of Shiraz, Vakil Mosque welcomes tourists and pilgrims from all over the world. Visiting this mosque is a great opportunity to get to know the history, culture and architecture of Iran.
Here are some other points about Vakil Mosque:
Minarets: Vakil Mosque has two tall minarets that stand out from a distance. These minarets are decorated with beautiful tiles.
Tabernacles: Vakil Mosque has two tabernacles, one on the south side and the other on the east side of the mosque. These naves have long columns and high arches.
Mihrab: The Mihrab of Vakil Mosque is one of the most beautiful Mihrabs in Iran. This altar is decorated with fine tiling and artistic plastering.
