Historical Mosques Of Lahore, Mostly Forgotton

Lahore is an ancient city and the capital of province Punjab. It is ruled by Shahi kingdoms, Ghaznavids ,Mughal Empire , Sikh Empire, British Raj from 11^th to 20^th centuries. In this area, Islam was  spread by the sufis so many buildings including mosques were built in it. Most of the mosques have been diminished but some of them are still present in very rough condition. Still, Lahorians have great importance for them in their heart.

• Wazir Khan Mosque

Wazir khan Mosque is an ancient mosque which was built during the reign of shah Jahan in the third decade of 17^th century. The construction was monitored by Hakim Shaikh Ilm-ud-din Ansari, who belongs to Chiniot. He was awarded by the title of “Wazir Khan” by Mughal Empror. Dehli Gate provides an easy access to this mosque. From this gate, the entrance of the mosque is about 300 meters away. This is an easiest way to Wazir Khan Mosque. The covered area of this mosque is 279.5 x 159 feet while the prayer hall, divided into 5 compartments covers about an area of 131.3 x 42 feet.

It gained popularity due to its fine tile work. Much of the building is constructed by dressed bricks with more than 10 geometrical patterns. According to tradition of that time, 4 minarets of 100 feet each are present at corners. The walls are decorated by excerpts from the Quran translated in Persian language.

 About 20 shops were added in its map due to which its area extends towards east beyond the mosque into the Chowk Wazir Khan. The constructor also established a bathhouse named as Shahi Hammam along the side of road for public use. These measures provide an economical support to the mosque. There is a grave of Syed Muhammad Ishaq in its courtyard. Overall, this mosque is a sculpture of traditional art and craft.

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• Sunehri Masjid

The Sunehri Masjid named as Golden Mosque is located in the center of Lahore city. It was constructed by Nawab Syed Bhikari Khan Son of Mr. Raushan-ul-Daula. Muhammad Shah was ruler in 18^th century and this mosque is constructed in the mid of that century. The name of this mosque is because of Golden domes present in it. These domes cover prayer hall.

Kashmir bazaar surrounds this mosque which is always crowded with people. While passing through this bazaar you can enter in it because the main gate of Golden mosque is in bazaar. The mosque is little higher from the bazaar so you have to climb up the few steps. It has a beautiful gateway, which measures 21.3 meters in length and a courtyard that measures 161.5 by 160.6 meters. Like other mosques, four minarets increase the beauty of this mosque. It can be said that Sunehri Mosque is an historical heritage of Mughal Empire.

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• Moti Masjid

Like other mosques, the name of this mosque is derived from a gemstone i.e moti meaning pearl. This mosque was built by Shah Jahan and completed during the era of his son, Aurangzeb. After the end of Mughal Empire, Sikh rulers converted it into Sikh Temple. This mosque has also been used as government treasury during different reigns. During British Raj, it is again restored into Mosque.

The mosque is situated on the western side of Lahore Fort. It is much closer to Alamgiri Gate. White marble has been used in its construction. It is to be said that marble was brought from Mankrana. The mosque contains three domes rising from central iwan having rectangular frame. This five-arched facade distinguishes it from other mosques of the similar class with three-arched facades. The ceiling of the mosque is decorated with four different orders, two curved and two trabeated.

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