Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque, Two-story yellow mosque in central Kabul, Afghanistan.
The Shah-Do Shamshira Mosque is a two-story yellow building rising along the Kabul River, distinguished by Italian stucco decorative elements with fine detail work. The structure blends Islamic and European design features across its two levels.
The mosque was built during Amanullah Khan's reign between 1919 and 1929, drawing architectural inspiration from Istanbul's Ortaköy Mosque. This period represented a time of modernization and reassessment of Afghanistan's building traditions.
The name means 'King of Two Swords', honoring an Arab military leader known for fighting with dual blades during early Islamic expansion. This historical connection shapes how people understand and experience the place as a spiritual landmark.
The building sits on Andarabi Road in District 2 and is accessible via the namesake bridge crossing the Kabul River. Its riverside location serves as a clear landmark for those navigating the city and finding their way to the center.
The building uniquely combines Italian craftsmanship techniques with classical Islamic architecture, making it an example of cultural exchange during the Amanullah era. This mix of European ornamentation and Eastern building forms stands out as uncommon in Kabul.
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