Mahmud Ghaznavi Mosque

The rectangular structure measures 28 meters by 21 meters, featuring high schist stone walls and remnants of wooden pillar bases arranged in rows.

An Arabic inscription discovered in 1984 confirms the mosque's foundation in 1048-49 CE under the order of Ghaznavid General Amir Nustagin.

The mosque's architecture incorporates elements from multiple traditions, including Hindu Shahi style bastions and pre-Seljuk square mehrab design.

The excavation site contains visible remains of 30-foot walls, student quarters, common rooms, and a water mill within the mosque complex.

The structure stands on an artificial terrace with Gandharan masonry and includes traces of a Buddhist stupa that existed before the mosque construction.

Location: Swat District

GPS coordinates: 34.74321,72.31427

Latest update: March 3, 2025 06:04