Malek Mosque - Image 1
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Malek Mosque

4.4
·58 reviews·Kerman, Iran

A thousand-year-old Seljuk masterpiece, Malek Mosque is Kerman's largest and most historically significant functioning mosque.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Malek Mosque - Image 1

Malek Mosque

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A thousand-year-old Seljuk masterpiece, Malek Mosque is Kerman's largest and most historically significant functioning mosque.

4.4
(58 reviews)

"A 1000 years old building and still functioning. Isn't it great?"

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the large mosque complex. :athletic_shoe:

Allow ample time

This is the largest mosque in Kerman, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seljuk Brickwork

Seljuk Brickwork

Exterior and interior details

Marvel at the intricate and ancient brickwork, a testament to Seljuk architectural prowess.

Qibla Iwan

Qibla Iwan

Western side

The largest iwan, featuring delicate brickwork and Seljuk motifs, is a stunning focal point.

Courtyard Fountain

Courtyard Fountain

Center of the courtyard

A deep, four-meter fountain sits at the heart of the mosque's expansive courtyard.

Wooden Entrance Gate

Wooden Entrance Gate

Main entrance

Experience the historical wooden gate, designed to encourage humble entry by requiring a bow.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Plan your visit to Malek Mosque to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, allowing you to appreciate the intricate Seljuk architecture without distraction. Consider visiting during weekdays for fewer visitors.

Respectful Attire

As Malek Mosque is an active place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees. Women may also need to cover their hair. This ensures respect for the religious significance of the site.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐕𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐳𝐮𝐥 𝐀𝐦𝐚𝐚𝐧𝐢, 𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐡 𝐈𝐦𝐚𝐦 𝐀𝐛𝐝𝐮𝐥 𝐀𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐳 𝐒𝐮𝐧𝐮𝐬𝐢 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐨𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐰𝐮𝐦𝐢 (𝐎𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐚 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐛𝐢), 𝐠𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐝𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐝𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐚𝐳𝐮𝐥 𝐀𝐦𝐚𝐚𝐧𝐢. 𝐇𝐞 𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐝𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐥𝐲 𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐦 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 “𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬” 𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐝𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰...
@olorialamaaniomomufti
8.1K likes • 132.7K views

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the large mosque complex. :athletic_shoe:

Allow ample time

This is the largest mosque in Kerman, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. :clock1:

اولین خطبه و خطابه. مدت کوتاهی پس از افتتاح آن، یعنی در حمله کارامان، نمای مسجد تخریب شد. پس از حمله مهاجمان، مسجد تعمیر و به طور کامل گچ کاری شد. بعدها، تعمیرات جزئی تا سال ۱۸۵۴ ادامه یافت که منجر به فروپاشی چندین گنبد و تخریب کتیبه‌ها شد. بلافاصله مرمت‌های اساسی انجام شد که در طی آن خوشنویسان چیره دست کتیبه‌ها را اصلاح و کتیبه‌های جدیدی اضافه کردند. جهت و ارزش‌های معماری ابعاد داخلی این مسجد ۴۹....
@yaldashafa2018
92 likes • 1.6K views
If you’ve seen Rami Malek in the Amateur this is the mosque behind him when he’s walking across the bridge in Istanbul. Pretty cool watching a movie going wow we walked across that yesterday! #istanbul #turkey🇹🇷 #mosque #travel #traveltok
@world.dad.mode
66 likes • 327 views

Appreciate the history

It's a 1000-year-old functioning mosque, a truly remarkable piece of history. :scroll:

Look for movie connections

Spot the mosque featured in the movie 'Amateur' with Rami Malek! :movie_camera:

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the large mosque complex. :athletic_shoe:

Allow ample time

This is the largest mosque in Kerman, so give yourself plenty of time to explore. :clock1:

Appreciate the history

It's a 1000-year-old functioning mosque, a truly remarkable piece of history. :scroll:

Look for movie connections

Spot the mosque featured in the movie 'Amateur' with Rami Malek! :movie_camera:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(58 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Malek Mosque is lauded as a significant historical and architectural gem in Kerman, praised for its ancient Seljuk design and vast scale. Visitors appreciate its status as the largest mosque in the city and its functioning status for over a millennium. Some note ongoing renovations, which can be a minor detraction for those seeking a fully pristine experience.

"Malek Jameh Mosque or Imam Mosque is related to Seljuk period and is located in Imam Khomeini Street in Kerman and it was registered in the list of Iran’s national monuments on 15th of Mehr 1346 with registration number 760.

Malek Jameh Mosque is the greatest mosque in Kerman and has numerous chambers and a vast scene. This mosque was built at Seljuk period which was the fifth century or in 478 hijri year and the order was frm Malek Turan Shah I. the mosque is a thousand years old and now it is located in the southern side of Kerman Historical Bazaar.

This mosque is 101 meters long and 91 meters wide and it is considered as a four-porch mosque. The Brick Seljuk Tower is also located in this area which is in the north-eastern side of Malek Mosque in Kerman. Three beautifully molded sanctuaries are other signs of this mosque.

In the past, there was an aqueduct called Mastoureh (named after the daughter of Malek Touran Shah I) whose water would pass through this mosque. The great porch of mosque Qibla is in front of the eastern entrance. A gate opens to the north and another gate opens to the south-west. There is a waterfront in the middle of mosque scene which is four meters deep. There is a great porch in the western side of it with colorful tile designs."

Sama sh

"Malek Mosque also known as Imam Mosque is a Seljuq era (1038-1118) four-iwan structure in the historical texture of Kerman. Considered the largest mosque in Kerman, this 1,000-year-old structure has several Shabistans (inner sanctum), a large courtyard, a brick dome and magnificent brickwork decorations.
A brick tower on the northeastern side, the large Qibla iwan on the western side and three Mihrabs (prayer niche) with stucco decorations are the only parts remaining from the original Seljuq structure.  Qibla iwan (a vaulted hall, walled on three sides and open on one side) is the largest iwan in this mosque and has delicate brickwork decorations with Seljuq era motifs. Due to changes made to the structure over time, one of the Seljuq Mihrabs is now located on the roof of the Imam Hassan Shabistan, the most famous Shabistan of Malek Mosque.
There is a fountain with a depth of four meters in the middle of the courtyard. The mosque once had a Qanat (underground water management system) named Mastoureh after a Seljuq princess which directed water through the mosque. The main entrance of the mosque is currently its northern entrance. The old wooden door of the mosque was built low so that anyone entering would need to bow and enter humbly.
The different parts of this mosque have undergone several renovations throughout the years. The current renovation project of the mosque which began in 1970 is still ongoing.  Malek Mosque was registered as a National Heritage Site in 1968."

Mahdi Sohi

"1000 years old building and still functioning . Isnt it great"

sim eb

What People Like

Ancient Seljuk architecture
Largest mosque in Kerman
1000-year-old functioning site

What People Dislike

Ongoing renovations

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Malek Mosque is located on Imam Khomeini Street in Kerman, making it accessible within the city. Taxis or ride-sharing services are convenient options. If you're exploring the Kerman Historical Bazaar, the mosque is situated on its southern side, so you can easily walk there. Reddit

Yes, Malek Mosque is a prominent landmark on Imam Khomeini Street and is considered the largest mosque in Kerman. Its location within the historical bazaar area also makes it easy to navigate to. Reddit

While you can drive to the vicinity of Imam Khomeini Street, parking might be challenging in the historical bazaar area. It's often easier to park a bit further away and walk or use public transport. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Malek Mosque is an active place of worship and generally does not require an entrance fee for visitors. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific visitor guidelines or donation boxes. Reddit

As an active mosque, Malek Mosque is generally open during daylight hours. It's best to visit outside of prayer times to ensure a peaceful experience and to avoid any disruptions. Reddit

Typically, there is no admission fee to enter Malek Mosque. It's a functioning religious site, and visitors are welcomed to explore its historical and architectural significance. Reddit

It is advisable to avoid visiting during the main prayer times to show respect for worshippers. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is generally recommended for a more tranquil experience. Reddit

Yes, Malek Mosque was registered as a National Heritage Site in Iran in 1968, recognizing its historical and architectural importance. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Take your time to wander through the vast courtyard, admire the intricate brickwork, and explore the various chambers and Shabistans. Don't miss the Qibla iwan and the historical wooden gate. TikTokReddit

Key highlights include the ancient Seljuk brickwork, the grand Qibla iwan, the central courtyard fountain, and the unique low wooden entrance gate. The brick Seljuk Tower nearby is also worth noting. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The intricate architectural details, the vast courtyards, and the play of light and shadow make Malek Mosque a fantastic spot for photography. Capture the ancient brickwork and the grandeur of the iwans. TikTok

The old wooden door of Malek Mosque was intentionally built low. This design required visitors to bow as they entered, symbolizing humility and respect for the sacred space. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be readily available, you can often find local guides in the vicinity of historical sites in Kerman. Alternatively, researching the mosque's history beforehand will enhance your visit. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Malek Mosque is located near Kerman's historical bazaar, which typically has numerous local eateries and tea houses offering traditional Iranian cuisine. You can find delicious options for lunch or a snack nearby. Reddit

No, eating is generally not permitted inside active mosques to maintain cleanliness and respect. You'll find plenty of dining options in the surrounding bazaar area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the intricate Seljuk brickwork, the imposing Qibla iwan, the central courtyard with its fountain, and the unique low wooden entrance gate. The play of light and shadow throughout the day offers great photographic opportunities. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Malek Mosque, but it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during prayer times. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and highlighting the architectural details. The 'golden hour' can make the brickwork glow. TikTok

Drone photography is typically restricted at religious sites and historical monuments in Iran. It's best to avoid using drones to prevent any issues. TikTok

Yes, if you recognize it from a movie like 'Amateur,' you can certainly try to capture similar angles. It's a fun way to connect your visit to popular culture. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Malek Mosque offers a vast space for families to explore, with its large courtyard providing room for children to move around. The historical significance and unique features, like the low entrance gate, can spark curiosity in younger visitors. Encourage them to imagine life centuries ago. Reddit

While there are no specific playgrounds, the sheer scale of the mosque and its intricate details can be engaging. Remember to dress modestly to ensure everyone can enter respectfully. Pack snacks and water, as dining options might be a short walk away in the bazaar. Reddit

🕌 Religious Visitors

As an active mosque, Malek Mosque is a place of prayer and spiritual reflection. Visitors are welcome to observe the architecture and historical significance, but it's crucial to maintain a respectful demeanor, especially during prayer times. Reddit

Observe the Mihrabs and the overall layout designed for worship. The mosque's continuous functioning for over a thousand years is a testament to its enduring religious importance. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel of Malek Mosque

Malek Mosque, also known as Imam Mosque, stands as a magnificent testament to Seljuk-era architecture in Kerman. Dating back to the 5th century Hijri (11th century CE), it is considered the largest mosque in the city. Its construction was ordered by Malek Turan Shah I, and it has undergone various renovations over the centuries, with a significant ongoing project since 1970. The mosque's impressive dimensions, approximately 101 meters long and 91 meters wide, highlight its grandeur. TikTokReddit

The structure is characterized by its four-iwan design, a common feature in Islamic architecture, with the Qibla iwan on the western side being particularly noteworthy for its size and intricate brickwork. The mosque boasts several Shabistans (inner sanctums) and a vast courtyard featuring a four-meter-deep fountain. The original Seljuk structure is still visible in elements like the brick tower on the northeastern side and three Mihrabs adorned with stucco. TikTokReddit

One of the most fascinating historical elements is the old wooden entrance gate, designed to be low, prompting visitors to bow as a sign of humility. The mosque was once supplied by a Qanat (underground water system) named Mastoureh, after a Seljuk princess. This blend of historical significance, architectural brilliance, and ongoing preservation makes Malek Mosque a captivating site for visitors. TikTokReddit

Malek Mosque's Connection to Cinema

For film buffs, Malek Mosque holds a special significance as it was featured in the movie 'Amateur,' starring Rami Malek. In the film, the mosque serves as a backdrop when the protagonist walks across a bridge in Istanbul. This cinematic connection adds another layer of interest for visitors who recognize the location from the screen. TikTok

Seeing the mosque in person after watching it in a film can be a unique experience, allowing travelers to connect their travel adventures with popular culture. It's a reminder of how historical sites can transcend time and find new relevance in modern media. TikTok

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