Vakil Mosque

Vakil Mosque, also known as the Soltani Mosque, is one of the outstanding architectural works of the Zand period. It stands in the center of Shiraz, west of the Vakil Bazaar. The mosque was built in 1187 AH (lunar Hijri) by order of Karim Khan Zand. It served as the congregational mosque of Shiraz in that era, and it stands alongside the Vakil Bathhouse and the Vakil Bazaar. Its architect, Mirza Nasiruddin, was one of the most distinguished architects of Shiraz, and he used the Iranian architectural style to create a unique work of art.

Vakil Mosque has a square courtyard, two large iwans, a southern prayer hall with 48 spiral-carved stone columns, eastern and western porticoes, a small side courtyard, a beautiful mihrab and a minbar with 14 steps. Its surfaces are decorated with colorful tiles and brickwork, inscribed with Quranic inscriptions in Nastaliq, Naskh and Thuluth calligraphy. Vakil Mosque in Shiraz is an outstanding example of the fusion of Iranian art and architecture, and it attracts many tourists every year.

To reach Vakil Mosque, you can walk from Shahrdari Square in Shiraz for about 5 to 10 minutes, or take an intercity taxi to Lotfali Khan Zand Street. Zandieh Metro Station is also the closest station to the Vakil complex, and the mosque is a few minutes' walk from it. Visiting hours are approximately 8:00 to 20:30, and admission to the building is free. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for sightseeing.