Vakil Mosque Shiraz
An 18th-century masterpiece of Persian Islamic architecture, famed for its vibrant tilework and mesmerizing spiral columns.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Vakil Mosque Shiraz
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An 18th-century masterpiece of Persian Islamic architecture, famed for its vibrant tilework and mesmerizing spiral columns.
"If heaven had walls, they’d look like this. ✨"
📸 Capture the Light
Visit during golden hours for stunning photos. The light filtering through creates a kaleidoscope effect.
🚶♀️ Explore the Bazaar
Vakil Mosque is adjacent to Vakil Bazaar, making it easy to combine visits for a full cultural experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spiral Pillars
Prayer Hall
Towering, intricately carved spiral columns create a mesmerizing optical illusion and a sense of grandeur.
Intricate Tilework
Vibrant blue and green tiles adorn the walls and arches, showcasing stunning floral patterns and Quranic calligraphy.
Pearl Arch
North Entrance
A magnificent arch adorned with floral designs and Quranic verses, a true masterpiece of Persian art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Attire
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Light
Visit during golden hours for stunning photos. The light filtering through creates a kaleidoscope effect.
🚶♀️ Explore the Bazaar
Vakil Mosque is adjacent to Vakil Bazaar, making it easy to combine visits for a full cultural experience.
👗 Dress Modestly
Ensure respectful attire: headscarf, long sleeves, and pants for women; long pants and shirts for men.
💧 Admire Reflections
Look for water features that create beautiful reflections of the mosque's architecture, especially at night.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Light
Visit during golden hours for stunning photos. The light filtering through creates a kaleidoscope effect.
🚶♀️ Explore the Bazaar
Vakil Mosque is adjacent to Vakil Bazaar, making it easy to combine visits for a full cultural experience.
👗 Dress Modestly
Ensure respectful attire: headscarf, long sleeves, and pants for women; long pants and shirts for men.
💧 Admire Reflections
Look for water features that create beautiful reflections of the mosque's architecture, especially at night.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Vakil Mosque is widely praised for its breathtaking tilework and unique spiral pillars, offering a peaceful and historically rich experience. Visitors are captivated by the intricate details and the spiritual atmosphere, making it a must-see in Shiraz. Some find it can get crowded, but the beauty generally outweighs this.
"Vakil Mosque in Shiraz is seriously stunning! The tile work is next level—super colorful and detailed, especially in the prayer hall with those spiral pillars. It’s peaceful, not too crowded, and you can really feel the history in the air. If you're into architecture or just want some cool photos, it’s totally worth the visit. Bonus: it's right near the bazaar, so perfect for a chill walk afterward."
Amin Abdolrezapoor
"Vakil Mosque is truly a wonder to see. The architecture is absolutely amazing—grand arches, intricate tilework, and a peaceful courtyard that invites quiet reflection.
Every detail feels intentional and full of beauty. It’s one of those places where you can stand in silence and just admire the craftsmanship and spiritual atmosphere.
A must-see for anyone visiting Shiraz and a perfect example of Persian architectural brilliance."
Kasra Shafiee
"Easily one of the most beautiful mosques in Shiraz. Attached to Vakil Bazaar makes it even more attractive. The mosque complex and the inside of the mosque is even more beautiful with lovely blue and green colourings"
Shaik Masood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vakil Mosque is centrally located in Shiraz, west of the Vakil Bazaar. You can easily reach it by taxi or ride-sharing apps. Many visitors combine their visit with the bazaar, making it a convenient stop.
While direct metro lines might not reach the immediate vicinity, local buses and taxis are readily available to get you close to the mosque and the adjacent bazaar area.
Using a GPS app on your phone is highly recommended. Most drivers will know 'Vakil Mosque' or 'Masjed-e Vakil' (مسجد وکیل).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Vakil Mosque is generally free, but it's always a good idea to check for any minor entrance fees or donation requests upon arrival.
The mosque is typically open from morning until early evening. It's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tilework and architecture.
Yes, modest dress is required. Women should cover their hair, arms, and legs. Men should wear long pants and shirts.
Photography is usually permitted, but be respectful of worshippers and avoid using flash in prayer areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The prayer hall with its spiral pillars and the courtyard with its reflective pools offer incredible photo opportunities. Don't miss the intricate tilework on the facades.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light, creating a warm glow and minimizing harsh shadows. This also helps avoid crowds.
Focus on the unique spiral columns, the vibrant blue and green tile mosaics, and the calligraphy. The 'Pearl Arch' is also a must-photograph feature.
Drone photography is generally not permitted at historical and religious sites in Iran. Always check local regulations before flying.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Built between 1751 and 1773 during the Zand period, it was later restored in the 19th century. 'Vakil' means regent, referring to Karim Khan, the founder of the Zand Dynasty. 
The interior is renowned for its stunning tilework, intricate carvings, and the iconic spiral columns that create a mesmerizing visual effect.
Despite its popularity, many visitors find the mosque to be a peaceful sanctuary, especially outside of peak hours, offering a space for quiet reflection.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully appreciate the architecture, tilework, and the serene atmosphere. If combined with the bazaar, plan for half a day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1🏛️ History Buffs
+2Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels of Vakil Mosque
The mosque's exterior and interior are lavishly decorated with mosaic tilework (Mogharnas), predominantly in shades of blue and green, featuring floral motifs, geometric patterns, and Quranic calligraphy. The 'Pearl Arch' on the north side is particularly noteworthy, a grand structure adorned with detailed designs and inscriptions. The craftsmanship evident in every tile and carving speaks to the skill of the artisans of the era.
Beyond the prayer hall, the mosque features a serene courtyard with a central pool that often reflects the surrounding architecture, adding another layer of beauty. The overall design emphasizes harmony, symmetry, and a spiritual ambiance, making it a captivating space for both contemplation and admiration of art and history.
+1The Zand Dynasty's Legacy in Shiraz
+1The Zand era is known for its emphasis on craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal, moving away from the more austere styles of previous dynasties. The Vakil complex exemplifies this, with its detailed tilework, elegant proportions, and integration into the urban fabric. Although the mosque was restored during the Qajar period, its Zand origins remain its defining characteristic.
+1Visiting Vakil Mosque offers a tangible connection to this significant period in Iranian history. It's a chance to walk through spaces designed by rulers who valued art and culture, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire awe in visitors today.
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