Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque: A Kaleidoscope of Colors
Nestled in the heart of Shiraz, Iran, lies the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, a mesmerizing architectural masterpiece that has captivated visitors for centuries. Also known as the Pink Mosque, this architectural gem is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows that bathe the interior in a vibrant symphony of colors.
The Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque was commissioned by Mirza Hassan Ali Nasir-ol-Molk, a Qajar nobleman, and was constructed between 1876 and 1888. The mosque’s design, envisioned by the architects Mohammad Hasan-e-Memar and Muhammad Reza Kashi Paz-e-Shirazi, reflects a harmonious blend of traditional Iranian architectural elements and innovative techniques.
The mosque’s most striking feature is its extensive use of stained glass, called Orsi. As sunlight streams through the intricately designed windows, it casts a kaleidoscope of colors onto the mosque’s interior walls and carpets. Orsi windows are windows made of a mixture of wood and colorful glass in the Safavid and the Qajar dynasties. In Orsi artwork light is a major feature in many mosques considering it being a major symbol of God in Islam. This is mentioned in a chapter in Quran ″Allah is the light of the heavens and the earth″.
Beyond its stunning stained glass, the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque boasts a wealth of architectural details that showcase the artistry of the Qajar era. The mosque’s interior features exquisite tilework, intricate stucco decorations, and elegant calligraphy. The central courtyard, adorned with a rectangular pool and surrounded by flowerbeds, provides a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city. The mosque’s beauty and historical significance have earned it a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.