Mausoleum of Amir Ghiaseddin Malekshah, a religious landmark in Mashhad
Mashhad, the capital city of Khorasan Razavi Province and home to the holy shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH), the eighth Imam of Shia Muslims, is a prominent city in Iran boasting a plethora of religious and historical attractions. During the Afsharid rule, Mashhad served as the capital of Persia, further solidifying its historical significance. One of the notable religious tourist attractions from that period is the mausoleum of Amir Ghiaseddin Malekshah.
Located near the entrance of Mashhad’s Grand Bazaar in the Sarshoor Bazaar area, this historical mausoleum stands close to the revered shrine of Imam Reza (PBUH), offering easy accessibility for visitors. Designated as a national heritage site, the Tomb of Amir Ghiaseddin Malekshah holds rich historical importance, destinationiran.com wrote.
Brief history
Amir Ghiaseddin Malekshah, a prominent figure of the Timurid era, breathed his last in 1452 CE. In the five years succeeding his passing, a tomb was erected to honor his legacy, now famed as the mausoleum of Amir Ghiaseddin Malekshah. It was built near the culmination of Shahrukh Mirza’s rule, the Timurid monarch. With the passage of time, the tomb underwent a transformation into a mosque, presently acknowledged as the 72 Tan Mosque or Shah Mosque.
Architectural features
Spanning approximately 33×20 meters, the mausoleum showcases two minarets, an ivan (portico), a double shell dome, and a four-arched hall. Adorned with intricate mosaic tiles, most of which have weathered with time, the remaining tiles retain their original color and sheen, dating back to the Timurid and Safavid periods. An engraving of 1742 CE on the entrance door suggests a later addition to the monument.
The mosque showcases intricate decorations, with a particular emphasis on the ivan section. The ivan is adorned with stunning tilework and inscriptions that radiate elegance and charm. The inscriptions, set against a captivating azure backdrop with delicate white linework in the Thuluth script, enhance the architectural magnificence of the mosque.
Decorative features
The structure includes two minarets in the northern and southern regions, each embellished with intricate stone plinths that have weathered over time. Restoration efforts have been undertaken to preserve and restore the minarets, ensuring their original grandeur is retained. The dome, adorned with turquoise-colored tilework and Kufic script inscriptions, adds a touch of uniqueness to the mosque’s aesthetic appeal.
The mausoleum of Amir Ghiaseddin Malekshah stands as a religious landmark in Mashhad, attracting numerous travelers annually. The impressive architecture and historical significance of the site make it a must-visit for tourists exploring the rich heritage of Mashhad. Whether as part of an Iran tour package or personal exploration, a visit to this remarkable monument promises a glimpse into Iran’s rich cultural tapestry.