The Sheki Juma Mosque, constructed between 1900 and 1914 in the Leather Quarter of Sheki, stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. This mosque was built as part of a larger complex that included a madrasa (Islamic school) and an underground bathhouse, which are situated nearby. According to an inscription carved in stone, the mosque’s construction was completed in 1914, coinciding with the addition of a new wing, cells, and a minaret. Subsequently, the madrasa was built adjacent to the mosque, creating a cohesive educational and spiritual environment.
During the Soviet era, the mosque’s building was repurposed as a sports school. To accommodate this new function, the internal balcony of the prayer hall was removed, and the minaret suffered significant damage, leading to its eventual destruction.
In 1988, the mosque was tragically engulfed in flames, further diminishing its structure. However, in 1989, a glimmer of hope emerged as detailed measurements were taken, and a restoration project was prepared. Excavations within the prayer hall revealed the location of an internal wall adjacent to the wing, prompting the restoration of this wall and the internal balcony. The previously bricked-up windows were reopened and restored according to their original dimensions, allowing natural light to flood the interior once again. As part of the restoration efforts, four large columns were incorporated into the design, and the mihrab (prayer niche) of the mosque was meticulously restored.
The mosque’s minaret was reconstructed based on a historical photograph found in the archives, reaching an impressive height of 28.5 meters from its base to the pinnacle. The restoration of the minaret was completed in 1991, symbolizing a significant achievement in preserving the mosque’s historical integrity.
Adjacent to the Juma Mosque lies the underground bathhouse, which is ingeniously embedded into the hillside.
