Jameh Mosque of Semnan

🕰️When was it built?

The building grew over different periods, and its present form is not the result of a single phase of building. The west dome and the north prayer hall date from the time of the Seljuk Sultan Sanjar, and the iwan beside the dome was built under the Timurid Shahrukh. The south prayer hall was later restored again under Fath Ali Shah.

🏛️What was it built for?

Besides its religious role, the mosque was tied to the social life of the city. The prayer halls were built for prayer and gatherings, and the iwan links the covered space to the open part. As you walk round, follow the different building periods with the help of the staff, and keep prayer times in mind.

👀What you will see

• The Seljuk minaret stands in the north-east corner of the mosque; see where it sits beside the lower body of the complex.
• On the minaret's shaft is a brick inscription in Kufic script with decorative patterns; look at it from a distance, without touching it.
• The iwan joined to the dome stands beside prayer halls of different periods; notice the open and covered parts from the permitted path.

💡Something interesting

It is said that the minaret once helped caravans find their way, like a great lantern. This story recalls the role tall towers played in guiding travellers, beyond simply standing beside a mosque.

🎒Good to know before you go

• Ask the person in charge of the mosque to guide you to the prayer halls, and keep the way clear during prayers.