Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)
مسجد امام
Standing at the head of Naghsh-e Jahan Square, this mosque is regarded as the supreme masterpiece of Safavid Islamic architecture. Its turquoise-blue dome rises 54 metres and is clad in 18 million bricks and 475,000 hand-painted tiles in seven colours — deep cobalt, turquoise, white, gold, yellow, brown, and black. The entrance portal (iwan) reaches 27 metres and features some of the finest muqarnas (honeycomb vaulting) ever created. Construction began under Shah Abbas I in 1611 and was completed by his son in 1629, making it a monument of 17th-century Persian genius. The mosque's acoustic design channels sound so that a whisper near the central fountain is audible across the entire courtyard.
✨ Historical Significance
Why Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) Matters
Ranked #11 among the world's top 100
UNESCO World Heritage Site (Meidan Emam, Isfahan). Universally regarded as the finest example of Persian mosque architecture and among the greatest buildings of the Islamic world.
Built
1629
Location
Iran
Annual Visitors
1 million
UNESCO
✓ ID: 115
Coordinates
32.6570°, 51.6774°
📅 Plan Your Visit to Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Recommended months: March to May, September to November
Temperature
Average: 15–28°C (59–82°F)
Visit Duration
Recommended: 1–2 hours
Entry Fee
$5–$20 USD (check current rates)
Dress Code
Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
Getting There
Located in Isfahan, Iran. Reach Isfahan by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Isfahan center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
📍 Location of Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)
Isfahan, Iran · 32.6570°N, 51.6774°E
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)
Visit between prayer times. Most mosques close to tourists during Friday noon prayers.
Women should bring a headscarf. Some mosques provide coverings at the entrance.
Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.
Language: Persian (Farsi). Learn basic greetings in the local language — locals appreciate the effort.
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — follow all preservation rules and stay on designated paths.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November. Check current visa requirements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)
Everything you need to know before visiting Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque).
1Where is Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) located?
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Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) is located in Isfahan, Iran. GPS coordinates: 32.657°N, 51.6774°E. It is ranked #11 in our Top 100 World Mosques list.
2When was Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) built?
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Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) was built in 1629. UNESCO World Heritage Site (Meidan Emam, Isfahan). Universally regarded as the finest example of Persian mosque architecture and among the greatest buildings of the Islamic world.
3What is the best time to visit Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)?
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The best time to visit Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) in Iran is during March to May, September to November. This is the Spring & Autumn when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 15–28°C (59–82°F).
4How much does it cost to visit Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)?
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Entry fees for Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) are approximately $5–$20 USD (check current rates). Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.
5How long should I spend at Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)?
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Plan to spend 1–2 hours at Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque). Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
6Is Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
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Yes, Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (ID: 115). It has been recognized for its outstanding universal value and is protected under international heritage conservation agreements.
7What should I wear when visiting Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)?
▼
Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
8How many people visit Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) each year?
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Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) receives approximately 1 million visitors per year, making it one of the popular mosques in Iran.
9How do I get to Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque)?
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Located in Isfahan, Iran. Reach Isfahan by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Isfahan center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
10Do I need a visa to visit Iran?
▼
Check current visa requirements. The local currency is Iranian Rial (IRR). Iran is in the UTC+3:30 timezone.
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