Gileyli Mosque, Medieval mosque in Old City, Baku, Azerbaijan
Gileyli Mosque is a medieval prayer house in Baku's Old City designed with a cross-shaped layout and domes above each of its four arms. Small chambers occupy the corners of the building, creating an orderly arrangement of interior spaces.
Construction began in 1309 under the Shirvanshahs, a dynasty that shaped the region's architecture. Later additions in the late 1800s expanded the building to accommodate growing numbers of worshippers.
The name comes from a guild of artisans who once lived in this neighborhood. Today visitors can observe the carefully crafted mihrab, which displays traditional Islamic design and artistic skill.
The mosque sits on Mirza Mansur Street in the historic downtown area and welcomes visitors. As an active place of worship, modest dress and respectful conduct are expected when entering.
The late 1800s expansion brought European design elements to the facade while keeping the medieval Islamic style intact. This unusual blend reveals how the region absorbed different cultural influences during that era.
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