10 Things to Do in Qazvin Grand Mosque, Qazvin Iran
Qazvin Grand Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and a major tourist attraction in the city of Qazvin, Iran. Built in the 16th century during the Safavid dynasty, the mosque is an impressive structure featuring a large prayer hall, several courtyards, and a monumental entrance. Here are 10 things to do when you visit the Qazvin Grand Mosque.
1. Admire the Monumental Entrance: The main entrance of the mosque is an impressive structure that is decorated with intricate tilework and stucco carvings. The entrance is flanked by two minarets and features a large arched portal that leads into the mosque's main courtyard.
2. Explore the Courtyards: The mosque has several courtyards, each of which has its own unique features. The first courtyard features a large pool, while the second courtyard is home to the mosque's main prayer hall. The third courtyard is the largest and contains several smaller buildings, including a library, a madrasa, and a shrine.
3. Visit the Library: The library of the Qazvin Grand Mosque contains a vast collection of books and manuscripts dating back to the 16th century. The library also contains a number of rare and valuable artifacts, including ancient coins, manuscripts, and paintings.
4. Explore the Madrasa: The madrasa of the mosque was built in the 18th century and is used to teach Islamic studies to students. The madrasa contains several classrooms, a library, and a prayer hall.
5. Visit the Shrine: The shrine of the mosque is dedicated to the Imam Reza, the 8th Shiite Imam. The shrine contains several artifacts and is a popular pilgrimage destination for Shiite Muslims.
6. Admire the Calligraphy: The walls of the mosque are decorated with beautiful calligraphy, which is a form of Islamic art that uses intricate lettering to create beautiful designs.
7. Visit the Museum: The museum of the Qazvin Grand Mosque contains a number of artifacts, including ancient coins, manuscripts, and paintings. The museum also contains a number of rare and valuable artifacts, including a copy of the Quran written in gold ink.
8. Enjoy the View: The mosque is located in the heart of Qazvin and offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can enjoy the views from the roof of the mosque or from the adjacent park.
9. Attend a Religious Ceremony: The mosque hosts several religious ceremonies throughout the year, including Friday prayers and special religious festivals. Visitors are welcome to attend these ceremonies and observe the rituals.
10. Learn About the History of the Mosque: The Qazvin Grand Mosque has a long and rich history, and visitors can learn about the mosque's history by visiting the museum or attending a guided tour.
The Qazvin Grand Mosque is an impressive structure that is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in Islamic architecture and culture. With its monumental entrance, beautiful courtyards, and rich history, the mosque is a place of beauty and worship that should not be missed.