Keşlə Məscidi: A Historical Gem in Baku

The Keşlə Məscidi, also known as the Shah Abbas Mosque, is a historical mosque located in the Keşlə settlement of Baku's Nizami district. Constructed in the 17th century under the order of the Safavid Persian king, Shah Abbas I, the mosque stands as a testament to the architectural styles prevalent during that era.The mosque's architecture is representative of the Shirvan-Absheron architectural school, characterized by a square shape. The structure mirrors the Tuba Shahi Mosque in Mardakan in its layout. The main worship hall, located at the center, features four large arches supporting a round dome. Smaller rooms with arched ceilings surround the central hall, contributing to the mosque's square plan. The portal has a simple architectural structure, and an Arabic inscription adorns the space above it. The altar and pulpit are constructed from hewn stone, and the windows showcase detailed craftsmanship.During the Soviet era, like many other religious sites, the Keşlə Məscidi ceased operations in 1928 but was later restored in 1989. Today, it serves as a spiritual haven, inviting visitors to explore its beautiful surroundings and immerse themselves in its history and spirituality.