Small Golden Mosque

 Small Golden Mosque

Exploring History

1. Inception During Sultan Alauddin's Reign Built between 1493 and 1519, the Choto Sona Mosque in Bengal stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah. The fifteen golden-domed structure once earned it the endearing title of "Choto Shona Masjid" or Small Golden Mosque.

2. Preservation by the Department of Archaeology and Museums Protected by the Department of Archaeology and Museums, Governments of Bangladesh, the mosque remains one of the best-preserved sultana monuments. Despite the loss of its gilded exterior, the Choto Sona Mosque retains its historical significance.

Design Marvels

3. Building Composition and Dimensions Constructed with a blend of brick and stone, the mosque forms a rectangle measuring 25.1 meters from north to south and 15.9 meters from east to west. Externally veneered with granite stone blocks, the building's four walls showcase strength and resilience.

4. Architectural Details Nine-sided polygonal towers fortify each exterior angle, enhancing the mosque's structural integrity. Curvilinear cornices, coupled with stone gutters, gracefully manage rainwater runoff from the roof.

5. Doorways and Mihrabs The eastern facade boasts five arched doorways, complemented by three on both the north and south walls. Correspondingly, five semi-circular mihrabs adorn the interior of the west wall, each mirroring the archways.

Intricate Interiors

6. Pillared Division Inside the mosque, the 21.2 by 12.2-meter space is divided into three aisles by two rows of stone pillars, with a total of four pillars in each row. A central nave cuts the aisles into equal halves, showcasing six square units on each side.

7. Architectural Elegance Fifteen units make up the interior, featuring chauchala vaults covering three rectangular units and tumbler-shaped domes gracing the remaining twelve square units. Stone pillars and engaged pilasters support these architectural marvels.

8. Royal Gallery A dilapidated but standing royal gallery at the northwest corner adds a regal touch to the mosque. Accessed through a stepped platform, it holds a mihrab, offering a unique perspective on worship.

Artistic Embellishments

9. Diverse Decorative Techniques The Choto Sona Mosque is adorned with stone carving, brick-setting, terracotta, gilding, and glazed tiles. Stone carvings feature borders with creepers and stylized hanging patterns, paying homage to Bauddha and Jaina influences.

10. Mosaic Roundels and Courtyard Ornamentation The frontal courtyard, recently excavated, reveals mosaic roundels in blue and white, arranged in a variegated design. These roundels, though not in their original place, showcase intricate craftsmanship. Additionally, a stone platform east of the gateway contains two inscribed tomb sarcophagi, adding an air of mystery to the mosque's history.

Present Day Charm

11. A Testament to Time While the glamour of Chhoto Sona Masjid may have faded, particularly due to the loss of decorative mihrabs and courtyard features, the remains stand as one of Guar-Lakhnauti's most captivating monuments.

In conclusion, the Choto Sona Mosque remains a living chapter in Bengal's architectural heritage. Its enduring charm invites visitors to step back in time and appreciate the rich cultural tapestry woven into the very fabric of this magnificent structure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who built the Choto Sona Mosque?

• A1: The mosque was constructed during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah, with Wali Muhammad believed to be its builder.

Q2: What led to the loss of the mosque's gilded exterior?

• A2: Over time, the gilding that once adorned the mosque's domes and gave it the name "Choto Shona Masjid" disappeared.

Q3: How is the Choto Sona Mosque currently preserved?

• A3: The Department of Archaeology and Museums, Governments of Bangladesh, actively protects and preserves this architectural gem.

Q4: Are visitors allowed inside the mosque?

• A4: Yes, visitors are welcome to explore the historical and architectural wonders within the Choto Sona Mosque.

Q5: What is the significance of the two inscribed tomb sarcophagi?

• A5: The tomb sarcophagi, located on a stone platform east of the gateway, bear inscriptions from the Quran and names of God, though the identity of those buried remains unknown.