The Shat Gambuj Mosque: A UNESCO World Heritage Site of Islamic Architectural Excellence
‘Sixty Dome Mosque’
The Shat Gambuj Mosque is a large and impressive structure, measuring 160 feet by 108 feet. It is built of red brick and has eighty-one domes, each of which is supported by six pillars. The domes are arranged in a honeycomb pattern, creating a stunning visual effect.
The mosque is also notable for its intricate brickwork. The walls are decorated with geometric patterns and calligraphy, which are said to represent the nine levels of paradise. The mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its builders.
The Shat Gambuj Mosque was built in the 15th century by Khan Jahan Ali, a governor of the Bengal Sultanate. It is located in the town of Bagerhat, which is known as the "City of Mosques" due to its many other architecturally significant mosques. The Shat Gambuj Mosque is the largest and most impressive of these mosques.
The mosque was built using a technique known as "hazari brickwork", which involves using thousands of small bricks to create intricate patterns. The calligraphy on the walls is written in the Nastaliq script, which is a Persian script that is commonly used in Islamic art.
The Shat Gambuj Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means that it is recognized as having outstanding universal value. It is a popular tourist destination and is considered one of the most important historical sites in Bangladesh.
The mosque is a reminder of the rich history and culture of the region. It is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its builders, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic architecture.
The following are some of the key features of the Shat Gambuj Mosque that make it a masterpiece of Islamic architectural excellence:
* The honeycomb pattern of the domes, which creates a stunning visual effect.
* The intricate brickwork, which is said to represent the nine levels of paradise.
* The use of hazarib brickwork, which is a technique that requires great skill and craftsmanship.
* The calligraphy on the walls, which is written in the Nastaliq script.
* The mosque's status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which recognizes its outstanding universal value.
The Shat Gambuj Mosque is a truly remarkable building that is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its builders. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic architecture or the history and culture of Bangladesh.
Read More: Durbar Bagerhat
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