Seyfiyeh Mosque

Seyfiyeh Mosque is one of the most valuable historical and religious buildings in Malayer County, Hamadan Province. It stands in Seyfiyeh Park, one of the oldest parks in Iran, and is more than 150 years old. The historic mosque is located on Sohrab Zand Street and is part of a cultural and recreational complex. Given its historical importance, it is also listed among Iran's National Heritage sites. The building was designed and built in the Qajar architectural style, and its setting among the greenery of Seyfiyeh Park creates a striking blend of Islamic architecture and urban nature.

The mosque was built by Sultan Mohammad Mirza Seyf al-Dowleh, son of Azod al-Dowleh and grandson of the Qajar king Fath-Ali Shah. Architecturally, it has a columned prayer hall with stone columns decorated with geometric and arabesque motifs, a large dome with turquoise tilework, and a calm space for worship and reflection. The columned prayer hall is built 5 metres below the level of the courtyard and has 12 domed brick vaults resting on brick columns. This design keeps the interior cool in summer and pleasantly warm in winter. On either side of the mihrab are windows with graceful arches that let natural light into the interior and give the mosque an uplifting atmosphere. The brickwork decoration and the harmony of the structure with the park's natural surroundings make this building one of the most attractive examples of Qajar-era architecture in western Iran. Over time, parts of the decoration and structure have needed restoration. In recent years, the Cultural Heritage Department and the Endowments Organization (Owqaf) have worked together to restore the entrance and the access areas of the building so that this historic monument is preserved for visitors.

The mosque's architectural style is said to have been inspired by the Dowlatshah Mosque in Kermanshah, and for this reason there are similarities between the two buildings. To reach Seyfiyeh Mosque, simply head from the centre of Malayer towards Seyfiyeh Park, which lies in the northeast of the city; the mosque is inside this historic park. The routes within the city are standard, and you can stroll through the park's greenery before or after visiting the mosque. The best time to visit is spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, so that travellers can enjoy the park's natural setting as well as the religious site and its Qajar architecture. Visitors should follow the principles of responsible nature tourism and avoid damaging the building or leaving litter on the grounds.