Qassabtuly Mosque, Mosque in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh

Qassabtuly Mosque is a single-storey prayer hall in Old Dhaka with three domes, the central one larger than the two flanking it, and four corner turrets topped with lotus-pattern finials. Its walls and arches are covered in chini-tikri mosaic made from broken ceramic and coloured glass, forming rose bushes, grape clusters and flower vases.

Construction began in 1919 under the patronage of Abdul Bari Bepari and continued until 1945, allowing time for detailed architectural work. This extended building period shaped the elaborate design we see today.

Locals call it the Chini Tikri Mosque because the white ceramic pieces on its walls resemble grains of sugar. The mosaic work, made from broken china and coloured glass, depicts rose bushes, grape clusters and flower vases. The most colourful decoration covers the mihrab and the wall around it.

The main prayer hall accommodates roughly 120 worshippers while outer areas can hold around 1,000 people during services. Visitors should expect crowded conditions during prayer times and be respectful of those performing religious duties.

The name comes from the butcher community that historically lived in this neighborhood and shaped its identity. This origin reflects how local trades helped define the character of Old Dhaka's districts.