Omar Efendi mosque, 19th century mosque in Shaki, Azerbaijan
Omar Efendi Mosque is a 19th century brick structure with decorative patterns set between its windows and a 14-meter minaret showing intricate brickwork. The building has fourteen windows that allow natural light to enter the main prayer hall.
The mosque was built in the 19th century and later served as a warehouse during the Russian period before returning to religious use after 1950. This shift in function marks an important change in its role within the community.
The building reflects traditional Islamic worship through its layout, with separate prayer areas for men and women that remain visible in its spatial organization. This arrangement continues to shape how the space is used during prayer times.
The mosque is easy to locate in Shaki's old town thanks to its minaret and distinctive brick design. Visit during warmer months when the windows allow clear views of the interior layout and decorative details.
The minaret displays intricate brickwork using locally sourced materials and traditional construction techniques from the Arran architectural tradition. This craftsmanship method is distinctive to religious buildings in the region.
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