Swoon... It's The Pink Mosque

The Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is a sight to behold. It sits discreetly down an alley off a road in downtown Shiraz, if you did not known it was there you would definitely blink and certainly miss it…

Which would be an absolute crime, for it is perhaps the most beautiful building I have ever stepped foot in!

It is also known as the Pink Mosque, which by the time you’ve read this post will need no further explanation...

So they were all good - but as you can see the amount of beauty I've already seen is starting to take it's toll!

In fact it was becoming so overwhelming that I had to put my sunnies on and sit in the shade

Construction began in 1876, and completed in 1888 so in the scheme of things it’s not that old. But aside from the mindblowingly intricate painted tile and mosaic interior, it boasts an incredible collection of Persian stained glass windows.

The advice was to visit as early as possible in the morning to witness the technicolour literally drenching the room, prisms of light bouncing off every surface including yourself. Pretty full on and quite a contrast to the pastel and candy coloured vibe of the mosque itself.

One other thing we noted was how unlike it’s more austere Arabic cousin, Persian art literally celebrates all things floral, and to a lesser extent animals as well. And for those who know, it felt like I was stepping into some kind of Kaffe Fassett (famous textile designer) fantasy world - you can certainly see where he gets his inspiration!

This is my absolute favourite... I like to think this is the original Rose of Sharon

But enough words, I think it’s time to let the photos do the talking…

See now why they call it the Pink Mosque?!

Absolutely mindblowing design and craftmanship... I think I'm going to cry

Don't forget to look up they always say

I was there so long I eventually had this little piece of heaven to myself

Time stopped for a little as i wandered around the mosque, gazing in wonder at the incredible craftmanship and artistry all around me, but I had the rest of team with both shoes back on and one foot out the courtyard, so sadly it was time to take my leave...

There's only so much beauty a boy can take

But then I realised that I didn’t actually take a good look at the carpets - as in proper Persian Carpets - so I had to pop back in for another look!

When you realise you match the carpet. A Persian carpet!

Oh in case you are wondering about my lovely ethereal cloak, its called a Chador, and all female visitors are given one to wear before entering the Mosque. Lucky for me, mine was floral, and pink!

Even the rubbish bins are pink