Where is the Mahabat Khan Mosque located?
The Mahabat Khan Mosque is located in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Its white marble façade is considered one of the city's most iconic sights.
Questions about Mahabat Khan Mosque
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When was the Mahabat Khan Mosque built?
The Mahabat Khan Mosque was built in 1630 and named after Mahabat Khan, the Mughal governor of Peshawar. Construction is also recorded as taking place between 1660 and 1670.
Why were the minarets of the Mahabat Khan Mosque used for hangings?
During Sikh rule, prisoners were hanged from the Mahabat Khan Mosque's minarets as a substitute for the gallows. Five people were hanged each day after the five daily calls to prayer, or Azan, were banned.
How big is the Mahabat Khan Mosque?
The Mahabat Khan Mosque covers 30,155 square feet. Its open courtyard holds a central ablution pool and a single row of rooms along the exterior walls.
What role did the Mahabat Khan Mosque play for Afghan refugees?
Following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, refugee tribal elders gathered inside the Mahabat Khan Mosque. They met there to forge unity among Afghans opposing the Soviet occupation.
What architectural features does the Mahabat Khan Mosque have?
The Mahabat Khan Mosque has a prayer hall on its west side, flanked by two tall minarets and capped by three fluted domes. Five arched portals lead into the prayer hall, decorated with muqarnas, ghalib kari, and multi-coloured vegetal motifs.