About Amir Chakhmaq

'Amir Chakhmaq' is an architectural masterpiece situated in the 'World Heritage Site', the city of 'Yazd', in 'The Islamic Republic of Iran'. It is also known as 'Dahouk Mosque', and was built in 1438. Today it stands as part of the 'Amir Chakhmaq Complex'. It is named after 'Jalal-ed-Din Amir Chakhmaq Shami', the governor of Yazd in the 15th century during the 'Timurid Dynasty'.

The beauty of this mosque lies in its overall unique structure. The top of the mosque has two minarets that stand tall and serve a view of Yazd as you go up the spiral staircase present within them. The outside of the mosque comprises of a bathhouse that is now more than 600 years old. The wall of the mosque recesses back as an alcove forming arched openings throughout the building. The mosque consists of 'Iwan' that is a hall in the shape of a rectangle, enclosed from three sides. The Iwan is symmetrical throughout the three floors of the mosque. They present a spectacular sight once lit up, with bright orange color, at night. The market situated inside the complex comprises of shops selling a wide variety of things. Souvenirs, and local food and deserts, are also available in this small market.

Apart from being a tourist spot, the mosque is also one of the largest 'Imambargah' (Shia Muslim congregation hall) in the country. The mosque contains 'Tekyeh' which are spaces of Shia Muslim gatherings, to mourn at the arrival of the month of 'Muharram' of the Islamic Calendar. The religious ritual of 'Nakhl Garden' is also performed at the Amir Chakhmaq Complex, on Ashura; the day that 'Imam Hussain' attained martyrdom. The ritual asks people to carry a wooden tree-shaped structure; called, 'Nakhl'. This Nakhl is 450 years old. 

Must See

  • Witness religious ceremonies being performed by the locals at the mosque
  • The 'Tekyeh', where the Shia Muslims gather to mourn on the arrival of 'Muharram' (the first month of the Islamic Calendar). Muharram has a history leading it to be a sad month
  • The 'Nakhl' is a wooden object having religious importance and is more than 450 years old. It can be seen placed in front of the mosque
  • If you visit near 'Ashura' according to the Islamic calendar, you may get a chance to witness the 'Nakhl' ritual
  • Visit the market inside the complex
  • Have a look at minarets on the top of the mosque. Although you cannot have a look from inside, it is quite beautiful from the outside
  • The mosque is lit up by orange color at night. So make sure you do not miss this glorious sight


 

How to reach

From 'Yazd Sadoogi International Airport':
Traveling by car takes 21 minutes (10.7 kilometers) if you travel via ‘Azadegan Boulevard’

 If you hire a taxi, you will be expected to pay in local currency; Iranian Rial
You could also walk the same distance, which takes about 2 hours 6 minutes. Although, walking is not a recommended option, even for young travelers who wish to explore, due to security reasons

Tips

  • If you have time, pay a visit to the mosque twice; once at night and once during the day. The mosque looks beautiful and is a must-watch at both times
  • Enjoy a tasty cup of hot piping tea from any of nearby shops and take a sip even as you admire the beautiful building
  • There is a market right next to it. You can shop for local goods at this place
  • High value souvenirs are available at very cheap rates
  • Try the 'Yazdi Faloday'; a mouth-watering local desert
  • Try the Iranian stew called, 'Dizi' from one of the shops in the complex
  • Only the first floor of the mosque is accessible to the public
  • There are a lot of hotels and other markets nearby if you wish to spend more time near the mosque
  • It is quite hot during summers so make sure you wear a hat/cap if you plan a trip during summers
  • Take a camera device with you to capture the stunning views of the building as well of the complex

Visit Time

Sunday:        Open 24 hours
Monday:       Open 24 hours
Tuesday:      Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday:     Open 24 hours
Friday:          Open 24 hours
Saturday:      Open 24 hours

Timings might differ on special occasions such as during the Commemoration of 'Martyrdom of Imam Jafar'


 

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Waiting Time

No

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes

Visiting the mosque is free of cost. However, you might want to keep some Iranian rials if you wish to buy items from the market at the complex

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Time you can spend

1 hour

 

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Weather

Broken Clouds 22.06°C

 

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