Jameh Mosque

Lonely Planet review

Jameh is a stunning compendium of Islamic architectural styles, Seljuk, Mongol and Safavid. The largest mosque in Iran, it's a testament to the ingenuity, aesthetic sensibilities, engineering prowess and devotion of generations of Esfahanis. While there's evidence of earlier buildings, the oldest parts of the present structure date to the 11th century.

At more than 20,000 sq m (215,278 sq ft), the scale of Jameh is quite belittling. Dominating the north and south ends of its central square, the iwans (open-ended vaulted halls) are topped with the oldest remaining parts of the structure - Seljuk domes built in the 11th century. Other highlights include the west iwan (constructed by the Seljuks and redecorated by the Safavids), an ablutions fountain designed to replicate the sacred Kaaba at Mecca, the 15th century Timurid Winter Hall and the 900 year-old Taj al-Molk Dome, widely considered the finest of its type. It's well worth buying a ticket to see interior rooms such as that of Sultan Uljaitu, which contains a gorgeous stucco mithrab (the niche that indicates the direction of Mecca).