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Herat Central Blue Mosque: A Jewel of Islamic Art

Discover the mesmerizing Central Blue Mosque in Herat, Afghanistan, a timeless icon of Islamic art and cultural heritage with stunning blue tilework.

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The Central Blue Mosque of Herat, also known as Masjid-e Jami, is a stunning display of Islamic architecture in Afghanistan. Founded in 1200, it features vibrant blue tilework, intricate mosaics, and a rich history spanning centuries [4, 9].

A brief summary to Herat Central Blue Mosque

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting. Women should cover their heads, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their arms and legs.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall. There are designated areas for shoe storage.
  • Consider visiting during prayer times to witness the mosque in full vibrancy, as the call to prayer adds to the enchanting atmosphere [4].
  • Climb to the top of the minarets for stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside [3].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Herat Central Blue Mosque is located on Sherafat Rd in central Herat, making it easily accessible on foot from many points in the city center. From the Herat National Museum, walk approximately 1km east along the main road. You'll find the mosque complex on your left, its towering minarets easily visible. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Herat. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Central Blue Mosque should cost approximately 100-300 AFN [6]. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Ask the driver to take you to 'Masjid-e Jami' or the 'Blue Mosque' on Sherafat Rd.

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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 the artistic prowess of the Afghan people [4]. 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 [4, 9]. Founded in 1200 by the Ghurid Sultan Ghiyasuddin, the mosque's initial construction was a testament to the empire's grandeur [4, 9, 18]. 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 [4, 9]. The mosque was rebuilt and renovated multiple times by subsequent rulers, each leaving their unique mark on its design and character [4, 9]. The Kart rulers undertook rebuilding and renovation programs in 1306 and again after an earthquake in 1364 [4]. The Timurid era, particularly in the 15th century, brought significant changes, introducing the vibrant mosaic tilework that defines the mosque's aesthetic today [4, 9]. Under Shah Rukh (1405–1444), the mosque was repaired, and the inner courtyard facades were decorated with mosaics of glazed tiles [4, 9]. The mosque complex is 180 meters long and 120 meters wide, covering an area of about 21,600 square meters [4, 18]. Besides the four large iwans, there are 460 domes, 444 pillars, and 12 minarets (17–36 meters tall) [4]. These elements are grouped around the central courtyard (82m by 60m) [4]. Visitors can explore the various sections of the mosque, each revealing unique artistic details and historical significance [4]. The mosque is laid out in a classical plan of four iwans with arcaded walls around a central courtyard nearly 100m long [4].

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