Nasir al-Mulk mosque is also known as the ‘pink’ mosque due to it’s pink tiles and stained glass windows. It is also the more frequented mosque for tourists travelling to Shiraz.
Here’s why you should visit the Nasir al-Mulk mosque while in Shiraz Iran and what you can expect to see.
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque In Shiraz Iran
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque | History
As far as historical sites go in Iran, the Nasir al-Mulk mosque isn’t more than a single blip in time. Construction on the mosque began in 1876 and was completed in 1888. Old by Australian standards but extremely new in terms of Persian history.
In comparison, the Shah Cheragh mosque in Shiraz, which marks the burial site of the brothers al-Kādhim who died around 900AD, was initially constructed in 1226 and has been rebuilt and added to for centuries. The Nasir al-Mulk mosque at less than 200 years old is as fresh as a daisy.
The mosque itself was build during the Qajar dynasty by the aristocratic al-Mulk family who were prominent lords and aristocrats of Shiraz. The mosque itself is famous mainly due to its Instagram worthy colour and lighting.
Featuring a soft pink toned tile and stonework which takes on an effervescent pink colour when bathed in the light that streams in via the stained glass windows adorning the inner wall. Countless instagram pictures have been taken of the site due to the colouration and lighting.
And in my experience of the mosque the number of individuals seeking to take further Instagram pictures of it makes it difficult to navigate. I was always trying not to walk through someones photograph.
Design Of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
The mosque is located relatively close to the centre of Shiraz. And the component of the mosque open to the public sits at the rear of a larger complex. Featuring an inner courtyard with long fish pond.
While the mosque the mosque features dome and dual minarets and is of a classic style, I found the brickwork gave away its younger age. Also, though constructed by prominent lords and aristocrats I found the complex to be less ostentatious. Other buildings owned or constructed by wealthy classes such nearby Qavam House are much more flashy.
Interior | pink Mosque
It’s the interior and its pink hue from the tiles and windows that is the main drawcard for tourists to this mosque. Though I found the columns and multiple small domes with their intricate tiles more interesting.
Inside the mosque itself is quite small. And the mosque has the usual carpet requiring shoes to be removed prior to entry. I didn’t see any actual worshipers in the mosque only individuals seeking Instagram worthy pictures. Which the mosque provides in abundance with its pink hue.
Conclusion | pink Mosque مسجد نصیر الملک
Should you travel to Shiraz to see the pink Nasir al-Mulk mosque? I wouldn’t. But I would make a point of visiting it like I did, while in Shiraz. It’s a short stop between other sights.
Compared to the Shah Cheragh a couple of blocks away the Nasir al-Mulk mosque is relatively devoid of history. Though again, it does provide some Instagram worthy pictures.
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