Jameh Mosque of Qazvin, Ninth-century mosque in Qazvin, Iran.
Jameh Mosque of Qazvin is a 9th-century house of prayer with stone walls, brick domes, and gypsum details reflecting several building periods. The complex combines elements from three architectural traditions in one structure, showing how it was modified and expanded over centuries.
Construction started in 807 under Caliph Harun al-Rashid's orders, with the Seljuks and Safavids later reshaping and renewing the building. Each of these dynasties left their own building tradition in the mosque's different sections.
The mosque was built on the site of a former Zoroastrian fire temple, showing how religious practices changed in the region over time. Visitors can see this layering of faiths reflected in the building itself.
The prayer halls remain open daily for worshippers and function as an active place of worship, while parts of the complex house a public library for the community. It helps to wear respectful clothing and be aware of prayer times when exploring the spaces.
The interior walls feature medieval carved calligraphy with inscriptions documenting artistic developments from different historical periods. These crafted details reveal how much each era valued artistic expression within the sacred spaces.
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