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Herat Central Blue Mosque: A Jewel of Islamic Architecture

Discover the mesmerizing Herat Central Blue Mosque, a timeless icon of Islamic art and Afghan heritage, showcasing stunning blue tilework and serene ambiance.

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The Herat Central Blue Mosque, also known as Masjid-e Jami, is a stunning example of Islamic architecture in Herat, Afghanistan [3, 5]. Founded in 1200 by the Ghurid Sultan Ghiyasuddin, it has been rebuilt and renovated over centuries, showcasing the artistic prowess of the Afghan people [5, 9]. Its intricate blue tilework, minarets, and serene ambiance make it a must-see destination [5].

A brief summary to Herat Central Blue Mosque

  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting the mosque; women should cover their heads.
  • Consider visiting during prayer times to witness the mosque in full vibrancy.
  • Explore the craftsmen's shop behind the main entrance to see artisans creating new tiles.
  • Climb to the top of the minarets for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Herat Citadel, walk east along Azadi Road, then turn right onto Sherafat Road. The mosque will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Herat bus station, take a local bus towards the city center. Get off at the Sherafat Road stop, near the mosque. The fare is approximately 10-20 Afghanis. Be mindful of the prayer times.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Herat. A short taxi ride from the Herat Airport to the Blue Mosque will cost approximately 150-200 Afghanis. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Herat Central Blue Mosque

The Herat Central Blue Mosque, or Masjid-e Jami, stands as a magnificent symbol of the city's rich Islamic heritage and a testament to the resilience and artistic prowess of the Afghan people [5]. Located in the heart of Herat, Afghanistan, this architectural marvel has evolved over centuries, bearing witness to empires rise and fall, and reflecting the enduring spirit of the region [5]. Founded in 1200 by the Ghurid Sultan Ghiyasuddin, the mosque's initial construction was a testament to the empire's grandeur [5, 9]. The Ghurids built the entire mosque using brick, laid out in a classical plan of four iwans (barrel-vaulted halls) with arcaded walls around a central courtyard [9]. However, like much of the region, it faced devastation during the Mongol conquests of Genghis Khan [5, 9]. The mosque was rebuilt and renovated multiple times by subsequent rulers, each leaving their unique mark on its design and character [5]. The Kart rulers undertook rebuilding and renovation programs in 1306 and again after an earthquake in 1364 [5]. The Timurid era, particularly in the 15th century, brought significant changes, introducing the vibrant mosaic tilework that defines the mosque's aesthetic today [5, 9]. Under Shah Rukh (1405–1444), the mosque was repaired, and the inner courtyard facades were decorated with mosaics of glazed tiles [9]. The Timurids transformed the mosque into a dazzling display of Islamic art, adorning its walls and minarets with intricate geometric patterns, floral designs, and mesmerizing calligraphy [5]. These vibrant blue tiles, which shimmer under the Afghan sun, have become synonymous with the mosque's identity, earning it the moniker "Blue Mosque" [5]. Today, the Herat Central Blue Mosque stands as a testament to the resilience and artistic prowess of the Afghan people [5]. Its vast courtyard, measuring approximately 120 by 175 meters, provides a serene space for contemplation and prayer [5]. The courtyard is surrounded by arcaded walls and four grand iwans (barrel-vaulted halls), each showcasing unique architectural details and intricate tilework [5]. The mosque complex is 180 meters long and 120 meters wide, covering an area of about 21,600 square meters [5]. Besides the four large iwans, there are 460 domes, 444 pillars, and 12 minarets [5]. Visitors can explore the various sections of the mosque, each revealing unique artistic details and historical significance [5].

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