Shah Jahan Mosque

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Mosque has always been a vital part in world's Islamic history, not only it is a place of worship, but also represents Mughal architecture and glory of that era. Our whole history speaks through the magnificent architecture of mosques built during Mughal period. Their massive vaults, embellished ceilings and corridors, glorified minarets, subtle motifs, ecstatic calligraphy all these add touch of grandeur and beauty to these adorable, mosques, amidst them is Shah Jahan Mosque, matchless in its beauty and magnificence.

This mosque, is made up of heavy brick structure with simple construction built upon a stone plinth, with big square pillars and gigantic walls, is centered on a courtyard 169' X 97'. The prayer hall is same in magnitude; both are enclosed by large domes. On the north and south two aisled galleries open by means of cloisters onto the courtyard. Ninety three domes cover the entire structure, and are probably the cause of a remarkable echo, which enables the prayers in front of the Mihrab to be heard in any part of the building. This mosque encloses the most detailed display of tile-work in the Indo-Pakistan sub-continent. The two main chambers, in particular, are entirely covered with them. Their domes have been exquisitely laid with a mosaic of glowing azure and white tiles. Stylish floral patterns, similar to the seventeenth century Kashi work of Iran, embellish the spandrel of the main arches and elsewhere geometrical designs on square tiles are disposed in a series of panels.

Architecturally matchless, the Jami mosque is distinct in its layout as well as its materials. This is the first mosque in the region to be erected, according to Mughal architectural pattern, quite different from other mosques in certain aspects, the edifice is extended along the east-west rather than the usual north-south axis. Instead of pink sandstone and marble mostly used in Mughal buildings, it is adorned with red bricks. The decision of using brick was made owing to practical concerns of cost and availability, since Thatta does not have much stone. The facade is festooned with glossy tiles.