Constructed in 1883 by the renowned Azerbaijani architect Sefi Khan Karabakhly, the Saatly Mosque stands as a significant cultural and architectural landmark in Shusha. This mosque was built on the site of an older mosque and madrasa, where the esteemed Azerbaijani poet and vizier of the Karabakh Khanate, Molla Panah Vagif, once taught. The historical importance of this site is underscored by the information inscribed in the kitab, prominently displayed on the mosque’s main facade. The Saatly Mosque is regarded as one of the last masterpieces created by this distinguished architect.
Distinct from the traditional small booth typically found atop such mosques, the Saatly Mosque features a tall minaret adorned with decorative elements and an isolated entrance. This architectural choice enhances its prominence within the landscape of Shusha’s mosques, which often exhibit a flat facade design with asymmetrical entrances.
The architectural composition of the main facades of Shusha’s mosques can be classified into two primary types: volumetric-spatial and flat. The volumetric-spatial type is exemplified by the presence of a wide iwan with arches of various shapes, creating an organic unity with the prayer hall. Notable examples of this type include the mosques in the neighborhoods of Merdinli, Guyulug, Khoja Mirjanly, and Kecharli. In contrast, the flat facade design with an asymmetrical entrance is represented by mosques such as Chöl Gala, Seyidli, Julfalars, and of course, Saatly and Mama.
The prayer hall of the Saatly Mosque is characterized by its three-nave space, supported by four octagonal stone columns that hold up the ceiling. This architectural design results in a multitude of arched transitions within the hall, creating a visually stunning interior. The walls are adorned with geometric figures and intricate floral patterns, further enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the mosque.
