Jameh Mosque of Saveh

The Jameh Mosque of Saveh is one of Iran's most valuable historical and religious monuments. It is located in the city of Saveh in Markazi Province, at the end of Salman Savoji Street. It is regarded as one of the oldest mosques in Iran, and its different parts date from several historical periods, from the pre-Islamic era through the early Islamic centuries to the Safavid period. Although the exact date of the original construction is unknown, the surviving inscriptions and architectural remains trace its history back to at least the early Islamic centuries. Over the centuries the Jameh Mosque of Saveh has been altered, rebuilt and restored many times, and its architecture reveals the evolution of Iranian building methods and decorative arts. This historic monument was registered on Iran's National Heritage list in 1931 (1310 SH), and today it is one of the most important historical and cultural attractions of Saveh.

The Jameh Mosque of Saveh is an impressive complex consisting of a courtyard, a domed chamber, two iwans, prayer halls (shabestans), historic mihrabs and a brick minaret, covering an area of about 4,200 square metres. The southern domed chamber is among the oldest parts of the complex and is attributed to the 4th and 5th centuries AH (Hijri lunar). The brick minaret dates from the Seljuk period, and the western iwan was built in the 8th century AH. Distinctive features of the mosque include delicate stucco work, decorative brickwork, and inscriptions in Kufic and Thuluth scripts, found on the mihrabs, the walls and other parts of the building. Two mihrabs from the Safavid period are also important artworks of the complex. The presence of traces of pre-Islamic architecture alongside elements from Islamic periods greatly increases the mosque's value for researchers. Beyond its religious importance, the building is a worthwhile destination for anyone interested in history, archaeology, calligraphy and traditional Iranian architecture.

To visit the Jameh Mosque of Saveh, simply travel to the city of Saveh and follow Salman Savoji Street to the southern part of the city, where the mosque stands. It can be reached by private car or local transport. Because the attraction lies within the urban fabric, it can be visited on most days of the year; however, spring and the mild days of autumn offer the best conditions for strolling around the city and visiting Saveh's other historic sites at the same time. During your visit, allow enough time to appreciate the details of the stucco work, the inscriptions, the domed chamber and the minaret, and, if possible, include the Jameh Mosque in an itinerary with the city's other historical attractions. To help protect this valuable heritage, please avoid touching fragile decorations, writing graffiti on the walls and entering restricted areas, and respect the peace and sanctity of this religious and historic place throughout your visit.