Chhoto Sona Mosque
Rajshahi
The Chhoto Sona Mosque, located in the Rajshahi Division of Bangladesh, is a remarkable example of Bengal Sultanate architecture dating from the late 15th to early 16th century. Constructed between 1493 and 1519 during Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah's reign by Majlis Mansur Wali Muhammad bin Ali, the mosque originally featured fifteen domes once gilded with gold, inspiring its name meaning 'Small Golden Mosque'. The mosque's rectangular structure measures approximately 25 by 16 meters and is built of brick and stone, with a large interior divided into three aisles by stone pillars, supporting fifteen domed units. Its architecture includes curvilinear cornices with stone gutters and multiple arched doorways, with semi-circular mihrabs on the west wall. Despite damage from the 1897 earthquake, subsequent restoration preserved much of its elegance. The mosque's courtyard once displayed intricate blue and white mosaic roundels, now preserved in a nearby guesthouse. The site also features tomb sarcophagi believed to be those of the mosque's builder and his father. Today, the Chhoto Sona Mosque stands as one of the best-preserved monuments of its era and is protected by Bangladesh's Department of Archaeology, attracting visitors for its historical and architectural significance.
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Tip: Visit during the dry season to avoid monsoon rains and enjoy the mosque's exterior and grounds comfortably. Tickets may be available onsite; consider checking with the Department of Archaeology for any guided tours or visitor information. Early morning visits can provide serene atmospheres and better photographic lighting. Discounts may be available for students or groups through official channels.
Interesting facts
- •The mosque was originally adorned with fifteen domes covered in gold leaf, giving it the name 'Small Golden Mosque'.
- •The mosque's courtyard featured intricate blue and white mosaic roundels, which have been excavated and preserved in a nearby guesthouse.
- •The tombs located on the mosque grounds are believed to be those of the mosque's builder, Wali Muhammad, and his father Ali.
- •The mosque is considered a 'gem of Sultanate architecture' and one of the finest examples of Bengal Sultanate monuments.
- •The 1897 earthquake caused significant damage, including the collapse of some domes and walls, but the mosque was restored in the early 20th century.
History
The Chhoto Sona Mosque was constructed between 1493 and 1519 under Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah's rule, commissioned by Majlis Mansur Wali Muhammad bin Ali.
It flourished as a significant religious and architectural monument during the Bengal Sultanate period.
In 1897, a devastating earthquake caused partial collapse of domes and walls, prompting restoration efforts completed by 1907.
Since then, the mosque has been preserved as an important cultural heritage site under Bangladesh's Department of Archaeology.
Place Guide
Eastern Gateway and Facade15th-16th century
The mosque's eastern side features five arched doorways leading into the prayer hall, originally part of the outer wall and gateway restored after earthquake damage.
Prayer Hall Interior15th-16th century
Inside, the mosque is divided into three aisles by two rows of stone pillars supporting fifteen domed units, including chauchala vaults and inverted tumbler-shaped domes, exemplifying Bengal Sultanate architecture.
Mihrabs on West Wall15th-16th century
Five semi-circular mihrabs correspond to the eastern doorways, originally decorated with stone carvings, though many stones have disappeared over time.
Courtyard Mosaic Roundels15th-16th century
Excavated blue and white mosaic roundels with variegated designs were originally part of the mosque's courtyard and are now preserved in a nearby guesthouse.
Tomb Sarcophagi Platform15th-16th century
A stone platform east of the mosque gateway contains two tomb sarcophagi inscribed with Quranic verses, believed to be the resting place of the mosque's builder and his father.
