SHIRAZ | The Nasir ol Molk Mosque, or Pink Mosque as it’s colloquially referred to is one of the most beautiful buildings you’ve probably never heard of. Structurally the mosque, built between 1876 – 1888, is typical of the mosques built in Iran during the Qajar era. What makes it unique and beautiful is the extensive use of stained glass in its facade, including a large number of pink tiles. For those who visit at the right time in the morning, as the sun rises over Shiraz, a visual treat awaits as the sunlight bursts through the windows and illuminates the walls and floors of the mosque with an array of beautiful, vibrant colours.
One thing to be aware of however is that this place is popular with tourists. There might not be that many tourists in Iran yet, but for those who do visit, a trip to Nasir ol Molk Mosque at the best time for light is a must. Chances are you won’t be the only visitor to the mosque when you visit. Getting a bit of peace inside the mosque and getting enough clear space to get that photo you’re looking for takes time and patience. You’ll notice that the photos that I have taken are all relatively close cropped. The reason for this is that when we visited there were a group of tourists that were quite inconsiderate of anyone else. They were standing all over the place, taking vast amounts of time posing in every corner imaginable. It was only when our tour guide pretended to be “official” and basically told them that they had to leave the main area that they (well the majority at least) moved out of the way. Even then, there were only a few brief moments before they scrambled back. A taste of what’s to come for Iran as the world fully appreciates what an amazing wealth of attractions it holds for visitors. I’m sure that one day, there will be lines to get into Nasir ol Molk and any opportunity for peace and solitude when the light is right will be lost.
The outside of the mosque isn’t as unique as its interior, but it’s a beautiful example of its style nonetheless, with intricate tiled mosaics along its walls and ceilings.
Nasir ol Molk mosque is a must visit when in Shiraz, and with the ever increasing popularity of Iran as a tourist destination, a perfect example of why you should visit Iran now, before everyone else does.