Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is one of the masterpieces of Iranian architecture that was built during the Safavid Empire, standing on the eastern side of Naqsh-i Jahan Square.

Construction of the mosque started in 1603 and was finished in 1619. It was built by the chief architect Mohammadreza Isfahani, during the reign of Shah Abbas I of Persia. On the advice of Arthur Upham Pope, Reza Shah Pahlavi had the mosque rebuilt and repaired in the 1920s.

The purpose of this mosque was for it to be private to the royal court (unlike the Shah Mosque, which was meant for the public). For this reason, the mosque does not have any minarets and is smaller. Indeed, few Westerners at the time of the Safavids even paid any attention to this mosque, and they certainly did not have access to it.

Compared with the Shah Mosque, the design of the Sheikh Lotf Allah Mosque is quite simple: there is no courtyard, and there are no interior iwans. The building itself consists of a flattened dome resting on a square dome chamber.

However, in contrast to the simple structure of this mosque, the decoration of both interior and exterior is exceedingly complex, and in its construction the finest materials were used and the most talented craftsmen employed.

Robert Byron wrote about this sight: I know of no finer example of the Persian Islamic genius than the interior of the dome.

The dome of the mosque was truly breathtaking, the sheer size of it from inside and the detailed design was exceptional.

A 400-year old Safavid mosque that makes you feel like you are flying out of your body to feel the beauties and arts in every corner of this masterpiece. The place contains different arts in the best type possible like calligraphy, tile working etc.

Wishing to be able to sit here for 12 hours.

Such a calm and holy light place. For me, this is the best place to be with yourself, meditating, observing both nature and human.

Genius human create this 🎇

I can’t explain how I love this place
One of the best tourist attractions in Isfahan ( Esfahan)

Words not enough to describe the beauty!!! Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a must to see when visiting Esfahan. It is one of the masterpieces of Iranian architecture that was built during the Safavid Empire, standing on the eastern side of Naqsh-i Jahan Square, Esfahan, Iran. Spot 1 h to explore the beauty and history of the mosque. Try to visit early morning when its quiet. Highly recommended!!!

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is one more beautiful mosque of Iran which shows marvelous Iranian art work. Interestingly, due to the sun rays, the dome changes between blue to pink.
This mosque was built just for Royal family and royal females but time never remains a same. Later on, it was opened for general public. I like this mosque which is small in size but full of detailed art work. Excellent indeed!!!

This mosque is one of the main tourist attractions in Isfahan and is one of the four main buildings in Naghsh Jahan Square. The beauty of this mosque and its beautiful roof is praiseworthy. Do not miss to see this unique mosque. I suggest you sit a little under the dome and experience peace and relaxing.

The most beautiful mosque in the world with detailed details; A place full of peace and beautiful patterns.

I would absolutely love to visit this place every day of a life of 100 years. This is beautiful indeed. And did you know this connects all Esfahan to one place. Inside you see the all new and outside you will see the old Esfahan. My trip of three days wasn't enough to explore this one place in Esfahan. Every street takes you to the next world of excellence.

Just two words to describe it: Awesome and unmissable! The interiors of this Mosque are magnificent and you could be never tired to gaze them. The highest point of persian Islamic architecture.

A unique landmark in Iran and in the world, definitely worth a visit or at least a walk on the square. Great place, with friendly locals

Architecture of Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque
Due to the fact that Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque was designed to be a private mosque, it is smaller than Imam Mosque, and has no minarets. Naqsh-e Jahan Square, in contrast with the most important structures in Iran, does not follow the direction of Mecca, so Shaykh Bahai, the chief architect of the project, faced a challenge while designing two mosques of the square. Like Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque has an entrance portal that turns right, forcing the visitor to face the direction of Mecca when entering the mosque. The paintings and interior tiles were made by Reza Abbasi, famous Iranian artist, and its quality and beauty overcome exceed anything created In Iran before. The walls, dome, entrances of the mosque are decorated with the so-called seven-color tiles, calligraphy, inscriptions of some chapters from Quran, names of Imams, and poetry.

Sheikh Lotfollah mosque was built during Shah Abbas time, and dedicated to his father-in-law,.This beautifully proportioned and decorated mosque, with some of the best mosaics from that era, took nearly 20 years to complete. The pale tiles of the dome change color, from cream through to pink, depending on the light conditions and the mosque is unusual because it has no minaret or courtyard.
it the streets local market is there from where you can buy tradisional things.

One of the most interesting ornaments IMHO was that stalagmite-like structure hanging above your head at the entrance. Another interesting fact: the Lotfollah Mosque had a secret entrance that spanned underneath the Maidan, from the Palace on the opposite side of the square.

This is more a sanctuary than a mosque as the building doesn't have minarets. It has beautiful tilework and a magnificent dome.

The mosque is located on the east side of Grand Naqsheh Jahan Square and that's one of the most beautiful buildings inside there. It is one of the unique artworks of historical art in the centuries of Islamic periods of Iran.

The tile work of Sheilh Lotgollah Mosque is stunning and is unique. Even though it is a mosque but it is not used for prayers and is now a historical site, as a result of that you have to pay an entrance fee. This fee is much higher for non-Iranians (around $5-10 per person). It is a small mosque but definitely a must see if you plan to visit Isfahan.

I been there for long time ago and miss there so much
Such a wonderful place
Such a fabulous city
I have no world about people
Extremely recommend to visit 👌🏻

Stunning! Both from the outside and the inside. Visit in the day for inside views. Visit at night for the outside views. Cost IRR 150K. Small one due to absence of courtyard.

One of the gems of architecture in Isfahan
This is a beautiful mosque, and the patterns inside the dome are breath-taking. It is well worth a visit if on the main square of Isfahan.