The Jameh Mosque of Isfahan

　　The Jameh Mosque of Isfahan is situated in the historic heart of Isfahan, Iran, also referred to as the “Friday Mosque.” It offers an awe-inspiring visual history of mosque architecture over more than 1200 years, starting from 841 AD. It is the oldest surviving example of this type of building in Iran and served as the prototype for later mosque designs across Central Asia.

　　The Jameh Mosque complex spans over 20,000 square meters and was the first Islamic structure to adapt the four-iwan layout of Sasanian palaces to meet the needs of Islamic religious architecture. Its double-shell ribbed dome was an architectural innovation that inspired building design throughout the region. One of the most striking features of the site is its highly stylized decorative details, which represent more than a thousand years of evolution in Islamic art.

　　Masjed-e Jāmé of Isfahan Must-visit reason: Iran’s oldest mosque Continent: Asia Country/Region: Iran Province/State: Isfahan Province City: Isfahan