Kalat’s 900-Year-Old Blue-Domed Mosque Undergoing Restoration
TEHRAN — The historic Jameh Mosque of Kalat, also known as the Blue-Domed Mosque of Kalat-e Naderi, is undergoing a new phase of restoration aimed at safeguarding one of the region’s important examples of Iranian-Islamic architecture.
With a history stretching back more than 900 years, the mosque reflects several periods of Iranian architectural development. Historical research indicates that its original structure dates to the Seljuk period, while its main dome is attributed to the Ilkhanid era.
The complex was later expanded during the reign of Nader Shah Afshar, who added surrounding courtyards and iwans.
According to heritage researcher Alireza Yavari, the building’s successive additions have created a layered architectural record spanning several centuries.
The mosque takes its popular name from the extensive use of turquoise tiles on its dome and iwans. Its four-iwan plan includes a two-tiered turquoise dome, multiple vaulted spaces and a central courtyard measuring approximately 19 by 27 meters. The cylindrical drum supports an octagonal space beneath the dome, with each side measuring about four meters.
Its decorative program is another notable feature. Seven-color tiles, arabesque motifs, floral patterns and geometric designs adorn sections of the interior and exterior, particularly the spandrels above the iwans and arcades. According to Yavari, these decorations carry cultural and religious symbolism in addition to their aesthetic function.
A stone inscription in Nastaliq script near the main entrance provides evidence of a major restoration carried out during the Qajar period. The inscription dates the work to 1250 AH and identifies Yalang Tush Khan ibn Fath Ali, the governor of Kalat at the time, as responsible for the repairs.
The mosque was officially registered as a national heritage site in 1967 under registration No. 661.
The latest restoration project focuses on both structural conservation and architectural appearance. With an allocated budget of 500 million tomans, the work includes roof reconstruction, repairs to damaged structural sections, comprehensive repointing and reconstruction of the rooftop structure. The measures are intended to strengthen the building against rainfall, temperature fluctuations and earthquakes.
Restoration of interior and exterior surfaces covering more than 500 square meters is also planned. Yavari said materials and colors compatible with the building’s historical periods will be used, with conservation specialists overseeing the work to avoid introducing inappropriate modern elements.
The mosque has long served as a gathering place for communities in Kalat and remains an important religious and cultural landmark. Its restoration is intended not only to preserve the physical structure but also to maintain its role within the cultural identity of the area.