Restoration of Afghanistan’s Great Jami mosque nears completion

The historic Great Jami Mosque of Herat, severely damaged in last year’s earthquake, is now 90% restored

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — The restoration of the Great Jami Mosque in Herat, one of Afghanistan’s most iconic Islamic landmarks, is 90% complete after extensive damage from last year’s earthquake. 

Standing for nearly a thousand years, the Great Jami Mosque remains a symbol of Herat’s rich cultural and religious heritage. 

Its intricate tilework and historical inscriptions continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Local officials report significant progress in preserving the mosque’s historical legacy.

Raqibullah Rezvani, head of historical monuments at the Herat directorate of information and culture, confirmed that the mosque’s minarets, which were severely affected, have been rebuilt. 

“We were able to save the minarets. Six have been fully restored, and the final one will be finished soon,” he said. 

The Maqsura castle, which was also damaged, was restored last year, and work continues on the northern and southern castles.

The castle is part of the Great Jami Mosque complex. Traditionally, a “maqsura” refers to a section of a mosque or religious building reserved for the ruling elite, particularly the caliph or king. 

It was often a private area for the ruler to pray, offering a place of security and separation from the general congregation.

Restoration efforts focus on maintaining the mosque’s authenticity by using traditional methods. 

Aziz Ahmad Rasooli, the restoration project lead, emphasized, “We are not altering the structure; the tiles used are traditional, preserving their original color and craftsmanship.”

As restoration work nears completion, the mosque stands as a testament to Herat’s resilience and the enduring legacy of its heritage for future generations.