Nasir al-Mulk Mosque

Visiting the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, also known as the Pink Mosque, was honestly one of the most magical experiences I’ve had while traveling. When the morning light passes through the stained glass windows, the entire prayer hall transforms into a canvas of colors — pinks, reds, blues, and golds dancing across the carpets and walls. It doesn’t just look beautiful… it feels peaceful. There’s a quiet energy inside that makes you slow down and just be present. The architecture and attention to detail are incredible. Every tile, every pattern tells a story of Persian artistry and devotion. Standing there, surrounded by color and history, you truly appreciate the craftsmanship and cultural depth of Shiraz. If you’re visiting Shiraz, this is not just a place to see — it’s a place to experience. Go early in the morning if you can. It’s unforgettable.

The Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque (Persian: مسجد نصیرالملک, romanized: Masjed-e Nasir ol-Molk; Arabic: مسجد نصير الملك), also known as the Pink Mosque (Persian: مسجد صورتی, romanized: Masjed-e Surati), is a mosque located in Shiraz, in the province of Fars, Iran. Completed in 1888 CE, the Qajar era mosque is located in the Gowd-e Araban district of Shiraz, south of Lotfali Khan Zand Street, next to the Shāh Chérāgh Mosque. The mosque includes extensive stained glass in its façade, and displays other traditional elements such as the Panj Kāse ("five concaved") design. The mosque was added to the Iran National Heritage List in 1955, administered by the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization of Iran. The mosque is a major tourist attraction in Shiraz, especially when the light hits the stained glass at sunrise. The mosque was constructed between 1876 and 1888 and is under use under the protection of the Endowment Foundation of Nasir-ol-Molk. Construction of the mosque was commissioned by Mirza Hasan Ali Nasir ol-Molk, one of the lords and aristocrats of Shiraz and the son of Ali Akbar Qavam ol-Molk, the kalantar of Shiraz. The mosque was completed in the Qajar style; designed by Mohammad Hasan-e-Memār, a Persian architect who had also built the noted Eram Garden before the Nasir-ol-Molk Mosque, Mohammad Hosseini Shirazi, and Mohammad Rezā Kāshi-Sāz-e-Širāzi. There is a poem inscribed on marble on entry to the mosque and the mosque contains extensive use of blue, yellow, pink, azure, and white tiles. The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque has two Shabestans, and the interior decoration of the western (or winter) Shabestan consists of a series of arches and vaults and two rows of six columns that divide the interior into smaller sections. The western Shabestan is connected to the sahn by seven wooden doors, each decorated by Gereh Chini, with extensive use of stained glass. The passage of light through the stained glass in red, azure, yellow, orange, and green colors is a major tourist attraction. There is a shallow and wide pool in the middle of the sahn. The Nasir al-Molk Mosque has two north and south porches, each different from the other. The northern porch of the mosque has three half-arches on three sides, connected to the sahn by the fourth half-arch. Orsi: Persian stained glass edit Although stained glass is popular in churches, the earliest discovered was in Syria from the 7th century CE.[dubious – discuss] There is evidence of techniques and recipes for obtaining stained glass by the Persian chemist Jabir ibn Hayyan in his book Kitab al-Durra al-maknuna (transl. The Book of the Hidden Pearl) published in the 8th century. Orsi[clarification needed] windows are windows made of a mixture of wood and colorful glass during the Safavid and Qajar eras. Orsi differs from stained glass used in many churches and Ottoman mosques which serve as illuminated images rather than a source of light. Light is a major feature in many mosques considering it being a major symbol of God in Islam. This is mentioned in the Quran: "Allah is the light of the heavens and the earth."

Also called Pink Mosque due to predominant pink color in its tiles. Best time to visit in morning till 10am when sunlight is coming in through its coloured window glasses to cast colorful images inside.

The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque in Shiraz, often called the Pink Mosque, is one of Iran’s most enchanting architectural masterpieces. Famed for its stunning stained-glass windows, intricate tilework, and vibrant use of color, the mosque transforms with the morning sunlight—casting a breathtaking tapestry of pink, red, and blue across its prayer hall. Built in the late 19th century during the Qajar era, it beautifully blends traditional Persian design with artistic elegance. A visit to Nasir al-Mulk feels like stepping into a world of light, color, and timeless craftsmanship.

Not much to do, inside of the mosque is very beautiful but there's really nothing much beyond taking pretty pictures. Since the last time I visited they also implemented a stricter chadoor rule which makes it annoying to walk around. The gallery print/gift shop had very many beautiful things so if you have money to spend.

It’s a beautiful mosque with amazing views, especially for photography. If you’re looking to get great shots, it’s best to visit in the morning when the light is perfect and the place feels calm and peaceful.

Beautiful Mosque. A must visit if you are in Shiraz. Make sure to go there in the morning if you want to see the colour full windows. I went there in the spring but I was told you get the best light mid winter. The place is busy even in the morning but for sure worth the visit.

Absolutely mesmerizing! Nasir al-Mulk Mosque amazed my family and me with its stunning stained-glass windows, vibrant colors, and intricate tilework. Walking through the sunlight-filled halls was a magical and unforgettable experience—a true gem of Shiraz.