Shat Gombuj Mosque: An Architectural Marvel of Bangladesh
Set in the heart of the ancient city of Bagerhat in Bangladesh, the Shat Gombuj Mosque is a stunning example of 15th century Islamic architecture. A visit to this grand mosque is a must-have experience for anyone traveling to Bangladesh, particularly for those looking to explore the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Overview of Shat Gombuj Mosque
The Shat Gombuj Mosque, also known as the Sixty Dome Mosque, is a stunning example of 15th century Islamic architecture. Built by the Sultan of Bengal, Khan Jahan Ali, the mosque is believed to be one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. The mosque is renowned for its massive aisles, impressive domes, and intricate decorative elements, such as intricately carved terracotta plaques and floral motifs.
Visitors to the Shat Gombuj Mosque will be amazed by the grandeur of the mosque, which is surrounded by a large courtyard. The mosque is made up of 77 domes, 77 pillars, and four massive towers, and has a capacity of 20,000 people. The mosque is believed to be the largest single-domed mosque in the world.
History of Shat Gombuj Mosque
The Shat Gombuj Mosque was constructed in the 15th century by Sultan of Bengal, Khan Jahan Ali. The mosque was built in the traditional Bengali style of architecture, which was heavily influenced by Persian and Indian architectural styles. It is believed to have been completed in 1479 AD and is considered to be one of the earliest examples of Islamic architecture in the region.
The mosque is believed to have been built in honor of Khan Jahan’s patron saint, Hazrat Shah Sultan Mahisawar. According to some accounts, the mosque was built in only three years, although this is disputed by some historians.
Architecture of Shat Gombuj Mosque
The Shat Gombuj Mosque is a stunning example of 15th century Islamic architecture. The mosque is made up of 77 domes, 77 pillars, and four massive towers, and has a capacity of 20,000 people. The mosque is constructed using mainly bricks and terracotta plaques, which are intricately carved with geometric and floral motifs.
The mosque’s massive aisles are flanked by two large courtyards and four domed towers, which are connected by a series of arched entrances and corridors. The mosque is surrounded by a large courtyard, which is made up of hundreds of graves.
The mosque is renowned for its massive aisles, impressive domes, and intricate decorative elements, such as intricately carved terracotta plaques and floral motifs. It is also renowned for its use of traditional Bengali architectural elements, such as pointed arches, corbelled arches, and carved stucco details.
Visiting Shat Gombuj Mosque
The Shat Gombuj Mosque is a popular tourist attraction in Bangladesh, and is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to the country. The mosque can be easily accessed from the city of Bagerhat, which is just a few hours drive from the capital city of Dhaka.
Visitors to the Shat Gombuj Mosque should bear in mind that the mosque is still a functioning place of worship, and visitors should dress modestly and behave respectfully. The mosque is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and visitors are not allowed to enter the prayer hall during prayer times.
When visiting the Shat Gombuj Mosque, it’s recommended to hire a local guide who can provide insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the mosque. The intricate details and historical importance of the mosque make a guided tour a valuable experience.
It’s advisable to wear modest clothing when visiting religious sites in Bangladesh. Additionally, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering the mosque.
While exploring the mosque, visitors can take in the stunning architecture, marvel at the intricate carvings, and appreciate the historical significance of this cultural gem. The serene atmosphere and architectural grandeur of the Shat Gombuj Mosque make it a memorable destination for travelers interested in exploring the rich heritage of Bangladesh.