Malek Mosque, Seljuk mosque in Kerman, Iran
Malek Mosque is a Seljuk sanctuary in Kerman organized around a central courtyard, with multiple prayer halls connected by arcades and columns that create an open, flowing sense of space. The interior features ceramic tilework and stucco decoration that structure different sections of the building while maintaining visual harmony.
The mosque was completed in 1085 during the reign of Turan Shah I, Sultan of the Kerman Seljuk dynasty, representing the flourishing religious architecture of that era. Later, prayer niches in the Buyid style were added to the western section, showing how the building evolved across centuries.
The western section holds intricately crafted prayer niches from the Buyid period, featuring detailed stucco work and traditional patterns that visitors can still observe today. These decorative elements show how different historical periods come together in the building's design.
Access to the mosque is free with multiple entrance gates that make orientation easy as you explore the grounds. When visiting, be mindful of local customs, particularly in the prayer halls, and wear appropriate clothing.
The grounds once contained a water feature four meters deep, fed by an ancient canal system that provided water for traditional ablution practices. This vanished installation reveals how the building was designed to integrate water systems into its religious functions.
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