Jameh Mosque of Tabriz | A Must-See Historical Attraction

Tabriz, the largest city in the northwestern region of Iran and a key center in East Azarbaijan province, is known for its agreeable climate and rich cultural heritage. The city boasts an array of attractions, with one of the most prominent being the Jameh Mosque of Tabriz.

This historic mosque, dating back to the Seljuk period, stands as a testament to the city's deep-rooted history and architectural significance. Visitors to Tabriz will find the mosque to be a remarkable example of the region's ancient artistry and enduring religious traditions.

The History of Jameh Mosque of Tabriz

The Jameh Mosque of Tabriz, also known locally as Kabiri Jameh Mosque or Juma Mosque, holds a significant place in the history of the region. The exact date of its construction remains a topic of debate, but historical evidence provides clues to its age. For instance, an inscription from the reign of Sargon II references Tabriz as a large city with fortifications, indicating the mosque's ancient roots.

The mosque is also mentioned in several historical texts, including Marzban Nameh, Olad al-Athar, and the Waqf Nameh of Haj Talib Khan Tabrizi. These documents, combined with the architectural style of the mosque, suggest that its construction likely dates back to the 5th and 6th centuries of the Hijri calendar, during the rule of the Ilkhanate and Seljuk dynasties. The simplicity of the mosque's design, characterized by unadorned stone pillars, aligns with the Seljuk architectural preference for modesty in religious buildings.

In 1193 AH, a devastating earthquake struck Tabriz, causing significant damage to the original structure of the Jameh Mosque. The building was later restored during the Qajar era by Hossein Qali Khan, the then-governor of Tabriz. The mosque that stands today largely reflects the restorations made during this period. More recently, additional renovations have been carried out, including the addition of a library and a hall, which have enhanced the mosque's functionality while preserving its historical essence.

Tabriz Jameh Mosque Architecture

The Jameh Mosque of Tabriz, initially a prayer hall known as Jameh Tabriz, has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. Architectural experts believe that the mosque was originally constructed with a single porch. However, over time, the structure was expanded to include a second porch, reflecting the evolving needs and preferences of the ruling authorities. The architectural style is thought to be inspired by the Firozabad Palace, a model that influenced many Iranian mosques. The mosque's current form features a rectangular layout made from traditional materials such as brick and plaster.

Entrances and Structural Dimensions

The mosque's architects designed two main entrances: one on the northern side leading to the courtyard and another on the southern side, which opens towards an adjacent alley. Upon entering through the southern entrance, visitors pass through the “Alchaq” of the mosque, known as winter mosque, before reaching the interior of the Jameh Mosque. The mosque itself stretches approximately 62 meters from south to north. The central area is marked by a grand arch with a width of 15 meters, while the length of the mosque is divided into two sections by large pillars. The southern section, 32 meters long, contrasts with the slightly shorter northern section, which measures 28 meters.

Architectural Details and Design

The mosque's mihrab, crafted from white marble, exemplifies simplicity combined with artistic excellence. The mihrab's spiral design is reminiscent of Safavid architectural motifs, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of ancient Iranian artisans. The mosque's foundations are notable for their large diameter, constructed from substantial bricks. On the east and west sides of the southern part of the mosque, five two-story arches were built, each measuring around 60 meters in length and 30 to 40 centimeters in width. These arches are believed to have been added during the Qajar period's reconstruction efforts.

Stucco and Mihrab Decorations

One of the most striking features of the Jameh Mosque of Tabriz is its colored stucco work, which dates back to the Ilkhanid and Seljuk periods. These intricate stucco moldings have been carefully restored, revealing their vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship. The mihrab, located in the main nave, features a rectangular design with two arches and an inscription in Kufic script. This inscription, adorned with plant and geometric motifs, is a fine example of the decorative plasterwork popular during the Seljuk era.

Inscriptions

Behind the mosque's eastern wall lies a winter mosque, characterized by its 10 columns and brick arches. Though this section of the mosque is relatively recent, it has been restored to reflect its original design. The Jameh Mosque also houses several stone inscriptions, including one on the western wall of the central arch and another above the northern entrance. These inscriptions date back to the Safavid era and provide historical insights into the social and religious practices of the time.

The Dome and Nave

The mosque's vast nave, supported by octagonal brick columns, is one of the oldest surviving parts of the structure. During the reign of the Aq Qoyunlu (Akkoyunlular) in Azerbaijan, a tall dome was constructed in the northern section of the mosque. This dome, decorated with intricate mosaic tiles, was commissioned by Seljuq Shah Begum, the wife of Uzun Hasan. Although only the foundations and remnants of the tiles remain today, they offer a glimpse into the mosque's former grandeur.

Tabriz Jameh Mosque Location and Access

The Jameh Mosque of Tabriz, a notable attraction in East Azarbaijan Province, is situated on Shahid Motahari Street at the southern end of the Tabriz Bazaar. This historic mosque is nestled within the courtyard of the Talebiyeh School, positioned between the Hojat al-Islam Mosque and the Mirza Ismail Khale Oghli Mosque, and is surrounded by the vibrant Tabriz market.

Visiting Hours

The mosque remains an active place of worship, with free entry for visitors. The mosque is open from 8 am to 8 pm during the first half of the year and from 8 am to 5:30 pm in the second half. The optimal visiting hours are between 11 am and 2 pm.

Best Time to Visit

Tabriz experiences cold weather during the latter half of the year due to its geographical location. If you plan to explore Tabriz’s attractions, it is advisable to visit during the spring and summer months, especially if you are from a warmer climate and prefer to avoid extreme cold. Traveling during the first six months of the year will ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable visit.

Nearby Attractions

Tabriz offers a rich array of attractions, many of which are historical sites. In the vicinity of the Jameh Mosque, several notable landmarks can be visited within a day, including:

1. Tabriz Bazaar
2. Tabriz Constitutional House
3. Arg-e Alishah
4. Golestan Garden
5. Asr Ahan Museum
6. Qajar Museum- House of AmirNezam Garrousi
7. Lale'ie House
8. Tabriz Museum of Natural History
9. Qala Deresi tourist Camp
10. Saheb-ol-Amr Mosque
11. Heidarzadeh's House
12. Tabriz Museum of Qur'an and Manuscripts
13. Seyyed Hamzeh Mosque
14. Municipality Palace of Tabriz
15. Saat Square
16. Tabriz Firefighting Tower
17. Azerbaijan Museum
18. Tabriz Pottery Museum

Nearby Hotels

When choosing accommodation in Tabriz, it’s beneficial to consider the proximity to key attractions and entertainment centers to save on both time and travel expenses. Hotels conveniently located near the Jameh Mosque of Tabriz and its surrounding sites include:

1. Sahand Tabriz Hotel
2. Sina Hotel
3. Caspian Hotel
4. Ahrab Hotel
5. Azadi Hotel
6. Tabriz Hotel

Final Takeaway

The Jameh Mosque of Tabriz is a significant historical monument, rich in architectural and cultural heritage, making it a must-see for visitors. When exploring Iran, be sure to include Tabriz and this remarkable mosque in your itinerary. It's an experience you won't want to miss.

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