Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country, and Baku boasts a wealth of stunning mosques that are a must-see for visitors. Among these, Tezepir Mosque undoubtedly ranks among the top five most visited mosques in the city. Its convenient location near the historic Icheri Sheher (Old City) makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
While the mosques in the Old City are often ancient and exhibit a modest exterior, Tezepir Mosque stands out with its grandeur. This expansive structure can accommodate over a thousand worshippers, featuring soaring minarets and an interior adorned with intricate Eastern motifs and lavish gold embellishments.
Construction of Tezepir Mosque began in the early 20th century, initiated by the philanthropic Nabat Khanum Ashurbekova, with architectural design by Ziver-bek Akhmedbekov. However, the project faced delays due to Nabat Khanum’s passing. It was her son who ultimately resumed construction, culminating in the mosque’s completion in 1914.
This magnificent mosque was built on the site of an older place of worship. In the 14th century, a revered figure named Abu Sayid al-Bakuwi resided here. Following his death, the dervish’s home transformed into a Piri, a sacred site of veneration. A small mosque was subsequently constructed, but by the early 20th century, it had fallen into disrepair, prompting the decision to erect a new structure in its place.
The construction of this mosque was a noble endeavor funded by Nabat Khanum Ashurbekova, a rare example of female patronage in the Muslim world (and indeed, in Orthodox communities as well). The building process spanned nearly a decade, with the first stone laid on July 23, 1905. After her husband’s death, Nabat Khanum sold her possessions to finance the mosque’s construction, which was intended to be the largest in the Caucasus. She passed away in 1912 at the remarkable age of 117, yet her legacy endures through this architectural masterpiece. Both Nabat Khanum and her son, who continued the construction, are buried at the mosque’s entrance.
The new mosque welcomed congregants for three years before being forced to close at the onset of the revolution in 1917. Following the establishment of Soviet power, the building was repurposed as a cinema and even a storage facility. It wasn’t until 1943 that the mosque resumed its original function and has continued to serve the community ever since. The Caucasian Muslim Administration is located within the mosque complex.
Covering an area of 1,400 square meters, the mosque’s interior features exquisite Eastern ornaments and patterns crafted by Azerbaijani artists. The dome and mihrab are constructed from marble, while the men’s prayer hall is illuminated by 52 chandeliers, with an additional five chandeliers adorning the women’s section.
The women’s prayer hall is elegantly finished with pistachio wood, and the staircases are made of reinforced concrete topped with wooden finishes. A cloakroom is also available for worshippers. Gold accents were used for decorative details, inscriptions, and the tips of the minarets. The doors and windows are crafted from rich mahogany, and the dome rises to a height of 1.5 meters. A heating system operates beneath the floor, which is set 0.3 meters lower than the surrounding area. The prayer carpet (namazlyk) can accommodate up to 72 worshippers at once.
Additionally, the mosque grounds house the Caucasian Muslim Administration building, constructed from the same yellow local stone as many Baku homes, designed to harmonize with the mosque’s aesthetic. The result is an impressive and beautiful complex.
Tezepir Mosque is truly a grand architectural achievement. From the beautifully tiled floors to the intricate interior decorations, every detail is a work of art. Gold accents adorn various areas of the mosque, and the roof features elegant geometric patterns. Calligraphy graces the walls, enhancing the spiritual ambiance. Within the mosque complex lies a shrine, although it remains closed to visitors.