Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque | Shusha

Information

Landmark: Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque
City: Shusha
Country: Azerbaijan
Continent: Asia

Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque, Shusha, Azerbaijan, Asia

The Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque is a historical religious structure located in the city of Shusha, Azerbaijan.

It is one of the two main mosques of Shusha, serving as a significant example of the city's architectural heritage.

Visual Characteristics

The mosque features a rectangular plan constructed primarily from limestone. Its exterior walls are rendered in a light beige color. The building has a single minaret, approximately 25 meters in height, constructed from stone. The architectural style is characteristic of Karabakh Islamic architecture, with a prominent dome and a prayer hall.

Location & Access Logistics

The Ashaghi Govhar Agha Mosque is situated in the central part of Shusha, approximately 0.2 km south of the city center. Access is via paved city streets. Parking is available on adjacent streets, though capacity is limited. Public transport within Shusha is minimal; local taxis are the primary means of reaching the mosque from outside the immediate vicinity.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The mosque was constructed in 1750 by Ibrahim Khalil Khan. It was commissioned as part of a larger complex and served as a place of worship for the local population. The mosque has undergone several renovations throughout its history, with significant restoration efforts occurring in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the mosque's exterior architecture and interior prayer hall. Photography of the exterior is permitted. Access to the interior is generally restricted to prayer times. No specific guided tours are regularly scheduled, but local guides may be available for hire in the city.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are not available on-site. There is no dedicated shade structure within the immediate vicinity of the mosque. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in Shusha. Food vendors are located in the central market area, approximately 0.3 km north of the mosque.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, the morning hours (approximately 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) offer favorable lighting conditions. The best months for visiting Shusha, considering weather, are from May to October. No specific tide requirements are applicable.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the mosque was damaged during the First Nagorno-Karabakh War and has since been restored. Local accounts suggest that the mosque's construction was funded by the Khan's personal wealth, emphasizing its importance to the ruling family.