JAMI’ MUSJID OF NA’IN

Iran

The town of Na’in lies 170 km north of Yazd and 140 km east of Isfahan.
The oasis city’s claim to fame is the Jami’ Musjid which dates back 1000 years making it one of the oldest Musjids in Iran.
It was originally constructed in the 10^th century and unlike other Musjids in the region, doesn’t conform to the usual four-iwan (hall) pattern.
Though it may seem very modest at the first sight, the exterior facade and minaret are austerely beautiful and many parts of the interior, including the mihrab (prayer niche), are decorated with finely detailed stucco work.
The Musjid has maintained its old mimbar (pulpit) which has been exquisitely carved from wood and dates back 700 years!
There is also an underground prayer hall, designed to keep the faithful cool in summer and warm in winter. Alabaster casements have been set in the ceiling of this dug-out basement, which allows natural light to come through.
It also features a 28m high minaret as well as its own qanat (water channels) which supply water to the ablution area.
The Musjid has sadly been neglected and it isn’t used for the daily prayers.

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