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Choto Sona Masjid: A Glimpse into Bengal's Sultanate Past

Discover the architectural gem of Choto Sona Masjid in Chapai Nawabganj, a testament to Bangladesh's rich cultural and religious heritage from the Bengal Sultanate era.

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The Choto Sona Masjid, or Small Golden Mosque, is a stunning example of Bengal Sultanate architecture located in Chapai Nawabganj, Bangladesh. Built between 1493 and 1519 during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah, the mosque was once adorned with gilded domes, giving it its name. Though the gold is gone, the intricate terracotta and stone carvings remain, showcasing a unique blend of Islamic and local architectural styles. The mosque features fifteen domes, corner minarets, and multiple arched entrances, creating a captivating visual experience. Surrounded by a serene landscape and a rich history, Choto Sona Masjid offers visitors a glimpse into the region's cultural and religious heritage, making it a must-see destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike. Explore the mosque's prayer hall, admire the delicate floral motifs, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this sacred site.

A brief summary to Choto Sona Masjid

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more comfortable experience exploring the site.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the mosque, as it is a place of worship.
  • Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and architectural significance of the mosque.
  • Take your time to explore the intricate details of the mosque's architecture, including the terracotta carvings and stone ornamentation.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Tahakhana Complex and Kotwali Gate to explore more of the region's historical sites.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chapainawabganj city center, the most convenient way to reach Choto Sona Masjid is by local bus or auto-rickshaw (CNG). Take a bus heading towards Shibganj; these buses typically pass near Shahabazpur. The fare for the bus is approximately 20-30 BDT. From Shahabazpur, you can hire a rickshaw to the mosque for around 30-50 BDT, or walk for about 10-15 minutes. The mosque is located roughly 3 km from Kotwali Gate.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Chapainawabganj. A taxi or CNG ride from the city center to Choto Sona Masjid will cost approximately 100-150 BDT. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Driving

    If driving from Chapainawabganj, head towards Shibganj on the main road. Follow the signs for Choto Sona Masjid. Once you reach Shahabazpur, the mosque is easily accessible. Parking is usually available near the mosque at no extra cost.

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Discover more about Choto Sona Masjid

Choto Sona Masjid, meaning Small Golden Mosque, stands as a testament to the rich architectural and cultural heritage of Bangladesh. Located in the Chapai Nawabganj district, this 15th to 16th-century mosque offers a captivating glimpse into the Bengal Sultanate period. The mosque is situated approximately 3 kilometers south of the Kotwali Gate and half a kilometer southeast of the Mughal Tahakhana complex, in the Firozpur Quarter of what was once the capital of Sultanate Bengal, Gaur-Lakhnauti. Historical records suggest that the mosque was constructed between 1493 and 1519 during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah. The builder is believed to be one Mansur Wali Muhammad bin Ali, as indicated by an inscription found above the central doorway. The mosque earned its name from the now-dissipated gold gilding that once adorned its domes, creating a dazzling spectacle. While the gold is no longer present, the mosque remains an architectural gem, showcasing a unique blend of Islamic and local Bengal styles. The mosque's architecture is characterized by its rectangular structure, built with brick and stone. The exterior dimensions measure approximately 25.1 meters from north to south and 15.9 meters from east to west. The walls are veneered with granite stone blocks, both externally and partially internally. Polygonal towers reinforce the four exterior angles of the building, adding to its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The cornices are bow-curved and feature stone gutters for rainwater drainage. The mosque boasts five arched entrances on the eastern facade and three each on the northern and southern walls. Inside, the prayer hall is divided into three north-south aisles by two rows of stone pillars. A wide central nave bisects the aisles, creating fifteen distinct units. The three rectangular units are covered with chauchala vaults, while the remaining twelve square units are topped with inverted tumbler-shaped domes. These domes rest on radiating arches that spring from the freestanding stone pillars and engaged pilasters. The western wall features five semi-circular mihrabs, corresponding to the archways in the east wall. These mihrabs, once adorned with intricate stone carvings, served as focal points for prayer. Sadly, much of the stone ornamentation has disappeared over time, leaving the western wall relatively bare. The mosque premise covers an area of 42 meters east-west by 43.5 meters north-south and was originally enclosed by an outer wall with a gateway in the middle of the eastern side. At a distance of 14.5 meters east of the gateway, a stone platform houses two tomb sarcophagi inscribed with Quranic verses and divine names. The identity of those buried here remains unknown, although some speculate they may be Wali Muhammad, the mosque's builder, and his father, Ali. The Choto Sona Masjid's original splendor may have faded, particularly with the loss of its decorative mihrabs and courtyard. However, the remaining structure stands as one of the most captivating monuments of Gaur-Lakhnauti, offering a tangible connection to the region's rich past. Visitors to Choto Sona Masjid can explore the intricate details of its architecture, admire the blend of styles, and imagine the mosque in its golden glory. The surrounding landscape adds to the serene atmosphere, providing a space for reflection and contemplation. The mosque is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those seeking to understand Bangladesh's cultural and religious heritage. The Department of Archaeology of the Government of Bangladesh currently oversees the historic Chhota Sona Mosque. While visiting, take note of the subtle artistic elements. The terracotta on the mosque’s exterior walls showcases a variety of figurative artwork that changes with the light throughout the day. This terracotta work, featuring flowers, rosettes, and arabesque motifs, challenges the traditional approach of engineers and architects. Additionally, the intricate patterns influence the distribution of light, enhancing the visual and tactile appeal while showcasing the architectural features. The mihrab, a significant artistic component of the mosque, boasts exquisite stone floral work and serves as a focal point for both light and visual interest. Choto Sona Masjid is more than just a historical site; it's a symbol of Bangladesh's cultural identity and architectural legacy. A visit here offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the beauty and grandeur of the Bengal Sultanate period. The mosque stands as a reminder of the region's rich history and the enduring power of art and architecture to transcend time.

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