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Shah e Du Shamshira Mosque: Kabul's Architectural Gem

Discover Kabul's iconic Shah e Du Shamshira Mosque: A unique blend of Islamic and European architecture with rich historical significance.

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The Shah e Du Shamshira Mosque, or 'Mosque of the King of Two Swords,' is a distinctive landmark in Kabul, celebrated for its unique blend of Islamic and European architectural styles [5, 11]. Built in the 1920s during the reign of King Amanullah Khan, it stands as a symbol of modernization and cultural fusion in the heart of Afghanistan [5].

A brief summary to Shah e Du shamshira Mosque

  • G58C+7HH, Kabul, AF

Local tips

  • Dress conservatively when visiting the mosque, respecting local customs. Women should wear a headscarf [16].
  • Be aware of your surroundings and maintain personal safety, especially in crowded areas [16].
  • Visit during prayer times to witness the mosque's central role in the community's daily life [5].
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From central Kabul locations like Kabul City Center or Chicken Street, the Shah e Du Shamshira Mosque is accessible on foot [5]. Head towards the Kabul River and the Shah-Do Shamshira bridge [5]. The mosque is located just off Andarabi Road, near the riverbank [5]. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrian conditions.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options in Kabul include buses [3, 8, 9]. Check local routes and schedules for the nearest bus stop to the mosque. Bus fares are typically inexpensive [6].

  • Taxi

    Taxis are a common mode of transport in Kabul [3, 8, 9]. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey [16]. A short taxi ride from most central locations should cost between 120 to 200 AFN [12]. Be prepared for potential traffic delays [4].

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Discover more about Shah e Du shamshira Mosque

The Shah e Du Shamshira Mosque, located along the Kabul River, is a visually striking and historically significant site in Kabul, Afghanistan [5, 7]. Translating to 'Mosque of the King of Two Swords,' its name is derived from a legend about an Arab general, Laith Ibn Qays, who fought with two swords during the early Islamic conquests and is believed to be buried on the site [5, 11]. Constructed in the 1920s under King Amanullah Khan, the mosque reflects the king's efforts to modernize Afghanistan by incorporating European design elements [5, 10]. Its architecture, modeled after the Ortaköy Mosque in Istanbul, showcases a unique blend of Islamic and Italianate baroque styles, often described as 'Afghan Baroque' [5, 7]. The bright yellow facade, adorned with white detailing, makes it a vibrant landmark in the city [5, 11]. Beyond its architectural appeal, the Shah e Du Shamshira Mosque serves as a gathering place for worshippers and a focal point for religious events [5]. It stands as a testament to Kabul's resilience and cultural heritage, having undergone renovations to preserve its integrity [5, 7]. The mosque is located near the tomb of Chin Timur Khan, a Mughal general and cousin of Babur, adding to the historical significance of the area [5, 7, 11].

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