Paper on the Shat Gambuj Mosque

Letter of Transmittal

Group 5, His101, Section 02

North South University
Plot: 15, Block: B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka, 1229

Date: December 17th 2022

Dr. Sharif Uddin Ahmed
Professor and Former Chairman of History and Philosophy
North South University
Plot: 15, Block: B, Bashundhara R/A, Dhaka, 1229
Subject: Letter of Transmittal for the Group Report on “Shat Gambuj Mosque”
Dear Sir,
It is with utmost pleasure that we inform you regarding the completion of our group report. For
the purpose of this report we have extensively researched the Shat Gambuj Mosque and its
various structures and architectural history.
Our findings from this project concluded that the mosque is already a World Heritage Site with
plenty of tourism. We have included further subjects of our research on how tourism at the site
may be boosted.
Therefore, we pray and hope that you find our research fruitful. We look forward to hearing your
feedback.
Regards,
Group 5

Name ID Roll
Syeda Nusaibah Abedin 1931854030 22
Nashita Tabassum 2013846630 31
Salsabil Chowdhury 2012738630 28
Samia Suba 2011959630 25
Anisa Fatema Ahmed 2013934030 32
2

Noorjahan Akhter Shumi 1821999630 11

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Abstract

The Shat Gambuj Mosque is one of the oldest mosques and architectural structures in
Bangladesh. Situated in Bagerhat, the mosque is a well-known tourist spot and locals are
constantly seen gazing upon the beauty of the structure.
The mosque still serves as a prayer spot for Muslims from all over Bangladesh who are visiting
the location. And the mosque has also gained the title of a World Heritage Site from UNESCO.
The Shat Gambuj Mosque already has a booming tourist attraction. But there are still further
steps to improve the aspect to gain more revenue. If this revenue is used towards the protection,
preservation, and conservation of the spot, the mosque is sure to be in pristine condition for
many years to come.
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Contents
Introduction 5
History of the Shat Gambuj Mosque 5
Current Situation of the Shat Gambuj Mosque 6
The Shat Gambuj Mosque as a Tourist Attraction 7
Present State of the Shat Gambuj Mosque 8
Personal Touches of Khan Jahan 9
Locals and their Attitude Surrounding the World Heritage Site 10
Architectural Design of Shat Gambuj Mosque 10
Artworks Around the Mosque 11
Picnic Spots and Museum 11
Existing Policies and Laws Governing the Shat Gambuj Mosque 12
Measures Taken for the Preservation of the Site 12
Current State of Historical Sites in Bangladesh Including the Shat Gambuj Mosque 12
Conservation Efforts for the Shat Gambuj Mosque 12
Consequences of Excessive Visitation at the Site 13
Findings from Researching the Shat Gambuj Mosque 13
Potential Ways to Increase Tourism and Boost Finances for Preservation of the World
Heritage Site 14
Awareness Through Educational Systems 14
Professional Marketing Campaign 14
Promotion Through Other Means 15
Increasing Security Measures for Visitors and Tourists 15
Educating Locals 15
Building Essential Facilities in Historical Places 15
Conclusion 16
References 17
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Introduction

Throughout the years and with the help of history, we have been able to study and witness the
greatest monuments ever built with phenomenal architectural skills. These pieces of genius work
help us to study and understand the concept of archaeology even better.

One of the examples of such fine work is ‘The Shat Gambuj Mosque’ which is a mosque that is
situated in Bagerhat, Bangladesh. It is also a part of the Mosque City of Bagerhat- which is a
UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it is one of the 360 mosques there.

It was brought into establishment in the 15th century by Khan Jahan Ali and the construction
period ran from the year 1442 to the year 1459. The Shat Gambuj Mosque is one of the oldest
mosques in Bangladesh and is described as a "historic mosque representing the Golden Era of
Muslim Bengal".

The distance to this mesmerising mosque from the capital city of Bangladesh, Dhaka is 325 km.
This Shat Gambuj Mosque is unique because it consists of sixty pillars that support the roof,
along with seventy-seven low height domes. The four towers built at the four corners have
smaller domes on the roof as well.

This aesthetic piece of work was used as a prayer hall for the Muslims, who follow the religion
of Islam and also as a Madrasa, a term used to represent an Islamic school. The mosque also
served as the court of Khan Jahan Ali, the creator of the very mosque. Presently, the Shat
Gambuj Mosque is popular all over the Indian Sub-continent and attracts a large number of
tourists and visitors from all over the world. The mosque is decorated mostly with terracotta and
bricks which resemble the amazing architecture from the sultanate period and is one of the best
vintages of the fifteenth century.

History of the Shat Gambuj Mosque

One might wonder where each of the beautiful sites in Bangladesh originated. But there isn’t
much to be wondered about the Shat Gambuj Mosque which every Bengali may dream of
visiting. The site is situated in Bagerhat and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in
1985.
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But what about the history of this inherently striking site? Well, some may be surprised to know
that it was founded by the ruler of Bagerhat, which at the time was known as Khalifabadh.
Khan Jahan Ali was the general contractor of the mosque and also one of the best architects of
his time. At the moment, the impressive Sixty Dome Mosque is the largest historical mosque in
all of Bangladesh. The mosque has gained such fame that it is known all over the Indian
Subcontinent.
Despite its name, the structure actually has 77 squat domes and 7 other pitched Bengali domes.
There are 11 deep bays of stone columns. The wall of the mosque is 6 feet thick and the internal
space is 160 feet into 108 feet. The full mosque is built by red burn mud or bricks. (Nadia, 2022)

Current Situation of the Shat Gambuj Mosque

Bangladesh has three world heritage sites. The Shat Gambuj Mosque in Bagerhat is one of them.
It is a 15th century Islamic edifice situated in the suburbs of Bagerhat (a district in Khulna
Division), on the edge of the Sundarbans, some 175 km south west of Dhaka, the capital of
Bangladesh. (Siddique, 2008)
Currently, the mosque sports a few picnic sports in the surrounding area. The most popular spots
are in and around Ghora Dighi.
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But Muslim worshippers still perform their daily prayers in the mosque as they have done for
years despite the structures status as a World Heritage Site.
There is also a museum in the general vicinity of the mosque with a lot of historical items on
display. The purpose of the museum is more to keep these items safe rather than as a show to
visitors. This museum acts as a gateway for people to learn more about the past of these stunning
historical site.

The Shat Gambuj Mosque as a Tourist Attraction

The historical site is a very popular tourist spot, particularly among foreigners residing and
visiting our country. The structural integrity and architecture of the mosque has garnered a lot of
attention.
The picnic spots around the mosque are popular among families visiting the site for the day and
spending tome together. Whereas, foreigners and historical fanatics prefer to visit the mosque to
learn more about Khan Jahan Ali and that period of Bengal.
Bagerhat Archaeological Department Custodian Md Golam Ferdous said historical and cultural
sites here are drawing more visitors than before. (UNB News, 2019)
To get to the site, visitors may take any form of transportation including all the local options.
And there is a small entry fee charged to most people. This fee is said to be put towards the
maintenance of the site.
Despite all the buzz, the location has a lot of potential to grow as a bigger tourist hotspot. But
authorities must also keep the integrity and sanctity of the mosque safe with so many people
visiting.
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Present State of the Shat Gambuj Mosque

The 'Shat Gambuj Mosque' in Bagerhat is our country's heritage since in 1985, it was recognized
by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. When we refer to locations and sites that we have
preserved for future generations of people around the world, we are referring to those that have
been designated as World Heritage.

The mosque is referred to locally as the "Shat Gambuj Masjid," which translates to "Sixty
Domed Mosque" in Bengali. But there are precisely 60 stone pillars and 77 domes over the main
hall. It's believed that the mosque was initially known as the Sixty Pillared Mosque, with the
Bengali word Gambuj, which implies domes, replacing the Arabic/Persian word Amud, which
originally meant column
The mosque is located at the western end of a 26.82 m x 25.60 m slightly elevated masonry
plinth. And that is surrounded by a low wall with a gateway in the center of the eastern side.The
"Sixty Dome" Mosque includes walls that are extraordinarily thick and tapering in the Tughlaq
style, as well as a roofline that resembles a hut and implies later architectural motifs.
The mosque's exterior dimensions are 148'6" x 101'4" and its internal dimensions are 123'3" x
76'2". With one dome in each corner and 77 low domes placed in seven rows of eleven, there are
a total of 81 domes. Four towers can be seen. The Azaan was summoned by two of the four
towers. Slender columns that are used to support the roof's roof are used to divide the interior of
the building into multiple aisles and bays.
And that is surrounded by a low wall with a gateway in the centre of the eastern side. The main
structure of the mosque measures 14.33 meters by 4.88 meters inside, and the exterior is
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designed by two enormous hollow-domed towers with octagonal shapes.

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There are 11 "mihrabs" on the west wall of the interior (niche in the mosque pointing towards
Makkah). Terracotta and stone carvings are used to embellish these mihrabs. Bricks are used to
construct the mosque's floor. Khan Jahan also used the mosque as his court in addition to using it
as a place for prayers. At present, the structure is still fit for pilgrims to perform their prayers.
The mosque's interior is divided into three traditional sections by two huge arches- a large central
square bay and smaller rectangular bays on either side. There are corner towers that have
flanking turrets similar to Khwaja Shahbaz's Mosque and Musa Khan Mosque, both in Dhaka
city.
Each of these has two stories and stands alone as a monument. Four cardinally arranged arched
apertures are perforated into the lower floor along the north-south and east-west axes.
Although the mosque lacks the exquisite surface adornment of the north Indian Mughal
examples, the beautiful arrangement of its various elements makes it attractive. This concludes
the architectural elements of the structure that are still intact and preserved as they were during
the time of Khan Jahan.
The mosque's inscription tablet is no longer in existence. However, the mosque most resembles
several Dhaka mosques from the late 17th century, like the Lalbagh Fort Mosque.
Personal Touches of Khan Jahan
'Shat Gambuj Mosque' is one of Bangladesh's best architectural marvels and a top tourist
attraction today. In order to make the city liveable, Khan Jahan constructed a network of roads,
bridges, public buildings, and reservoirs. According to the local people, everything about this
place is amazing, especially the sacred mosque.
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Locals and their Attitude Surrounding the World Heritage Site

On the grounds of Shat Gambuj Masjid in Sadar upazila, thousands of Ghora Dighi water lilies,
which are often bustling with visitors in the winter, are ready to welcome both domestic and
foreign guests. Tourists also added that they have to deal with significant issues as a result of
inadequate hotel facilities, difficult communication on the roads and making necessary
arrangements to attract tourists.

Architectural Design of Shat Gambuj Mosque

The famous Shat Gambuj mosque was designed by the renowned Khan Jahan Ali. The
construction of the mosque started in 1442 and took a total of 17 years to be properly completed
in 1459. Now, let’s come to the interesting part, which is the naming of this mosque. As the
name goes, “Shat” means sixty, and “gambuj” means domes, which means sixty dome mosque.

However, when calculated a total of seventy-seven domes were found. On the other hand, when
the internal structure is being studied closely, we can see the architecture of the mosque has sixty
pillars. This sums up the etymology of the name of the mosque, but let’s focus on the more
important stuff which is the architectural beauty of the mosque.

The Tughlaq-style mosque is made with tempered bricks all over, making it one of the most
impressive places in the Indian subcontinent. The walls are six feet thick as a result, the thickness
provides a cool and calm atmosphere inside the mosque. The mosque has an internal space of
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160x108 feet. So, the mosque is quite spacious and can hold a lot of people together at the same
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time.

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Among the seventy-seven domes, seventy domes are round and the rest seven are “Chaar-
Chala”. These domes are arranged in seven rows with eleven domes in each of them. Also, in the
four corners, there are four domes positioned over the four low towers known as “Minars”. The
sixty pillars have made a total of eleven deep bays of stone walls in the mosque.

The interior of the Shat Gambuj mosque includes a huge prayer hall with seven arched doorways
on both north and south and eleven on the east. The mosque has 10 “Mihrabs” among which the
central one is built with stone.

Artworks Around the Mosque

The mosque is full of archaeological beauty. One of the best artworks you can find is the designs
on the doorways. All of the doorways have the same beautiful design surrounding the arch. This
catches the eyes of any person entering the mosque and makes them appreciate what an absolute
beauty it is! You can also find an old decorated wall used as a boundary wall around the mosque
yard. You can see some of the wonderful artworks of the 15th century on that wall as well.

Picnic Spots and Museum

Now the mosque has a picnic spot and a museum for visitors who want to know more about
history. The picnic spot is right beside the historical “Ghora Dighi”. Visitors can sit and enjoy
the beauty of the mosque there.

On the other hand, the museum preserves a bunch of historical items from the 15th century, so it
is a must-visit place. However, foreigners are charged a little more than the citizens of
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Bangladesh. Just with 50 takas, the foreigners can have access to both the museum and the
mosque. You can visit the museum anytime between 9 am to 12 pm or 2 pm to 5 pm.
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Existing Policies and Laws Governing the Shat Gambuj Mosque

Bangladesh has a legal constitution for the preservation of national assets, under Section 24. This
states that “The State shall take steps to protect against distortion, destruction, or destruction of
all monuments, items, or places of special artistic or historical value or interest.”
Additionally, we also have the “Antiquity Act, 1968,” which helps in the protection and
conservation of all historically significant sites and unique objects of history. Furthermore, there
are many other Acts passed on by the government to protect historic sites and objects, like; the
1968 Antiquity Act, which governs property (Amendment 1976). In addition, the Department of
Archaeology protects land under the Conservation Manual, the Immovable Antiquities
Protection Laws, the Antiquities Export Control Act (1976), and the Archaeological Works Code
(1923) (1938).
Measures Taken for the Preservation of the Site
The Department of Archaeology ensures that no structures or other amenities, which would
diminish the land's extraordinary universal value, are allowed to be developed on, inside, or close
to the property.
No one is allowed to alter or deface any memorials on the property. The recommendations made
in the Plan for the Protection and Introduction of the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat,
produced by UNESCO in 1973/74–1977/78, have received a lot of attention from the
government of Bangladesh.
Current State of Historical Sites in Bangladesh Including the Shat Gambuj Mosque
In spite of having strong regulations and policies, we can still see most of the historic sites are in
a dire situation. All the historic sites hold their own significance, they are priceless and
irreplaceable. Despite this knowledge, the government or even us as citizens tend to turn a blind
eye towards their proper preservation and conservation.

Conservation Efforts for the Shat Gambuj Mosque

Recently, there have been some renovations done to the “Shat Gambuj Mosque.” The use of
thick white plaster in several recent renovation projects has also drawn criticism from experts.
Community organizations that control the mosque are constructing unauthorized extensions and
constructions while ignoring the mosque's historical significance, breaking building codes, and
vehemently defending their possessions against the heritage.
On the positive side, it is reported that, “in collaboration with the Norwegian Embassy in
Bangladesh, the World Heritage Convention, and the Government of Bangladesh, UNESCO has
come forward intending to protect cultural heritage sites in the region."
The step, which includes a development plan for long-term preservation of historical sites and
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assets in Bangladesh, is now summarized in the report under examination.

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Consequences of Excessive Visitation at the Site

The reason we are losing interest in keeping our historical monuments and locations is because
individuals are more concerned with the financial benefits of replacing traditional with modern
buildings or objects.
The emphasis should be on the financial gains businesses could earn, if they realized what
tourism could do for them. If the historic sites are well preserved and updated to improve
tourism-related facilities, our country could benefit from this.
If properly protected, it might have a positive effect on our tourism industry. Additionally, we
lack the funding and resources necessary to maintain our historic sites.
The government must therefore increase its services for historic places. Knowledge must be
shared throughout the populace. To safeguard our historic structures and sites, municipal, local
governmental, archaeological, and academic experts should collaborate with one another.

Findings from Researching the Shat Gambuj Mosque

The Shat Gambuj Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Bangladesh. And this fact is one of the
factors that has led the structure to be named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. But it isn’t just
the foreigners who feel an immense attraction to the Shat Gambuj Mosque.
Even locals from the area are quick to make a trip to the site if time permits amidst their daily
hustle and bustle. And in true Bangladesh style, the methods to reach the mosque are quite
fitting. For any native or non-native tourist, there is an abundance of CNGs and rickshaws in the
near vicinity for their travelling convenience.
One of the ways to boost tourism and revenue of the site is to attract people of all ages to visit
and learn about the rich history of its architecture. And currently, there are a lot of schools,
colleges, and universities permitting trips for students to this very location.
The Shat Gambuj Mosque and the general area of Bagerhat, where it is situated, both have an
opulent story of inception. And anyone who visits Bagerhat once may feel the urge to delve into
this history.
The mosque is not just beautiful to look at, but the architecture of the mosque is stunning. It
serves as a sort of blueprint for architects in this day and age. Despite having ornate structures
and luxurious designs, the overall structure of the mosque is grounded and resonates with the
people of the same land.
The mosque has served the locals for years. For a servant of Allah seeking to prostrate, the
mosque hosts every facility one could need. And for a country like Bangladesh, these things only
make people have abundant love for the World Heritage Site.
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Upon being named as a World Heritage Site, the mosque began to gain further attention from the
world outside of Bangladesh. And there is a lot of potential for Bangladesh to turn the site into a
much more booming tourist spot and increase revenue for the purposes of conservation.

Potential Ways to Increase Tourism and Boost Finances for Preservation of the World
Heritage Site
The Shat Gambuj Mosque is one of the biggest tourist sports in all of Bangladesh. Many people
even visit from other countries. And the tourism industry has immense potential to boost the
monetary efforts behind the preservation of the structure.

Awareness Through Educational Systems

Shat Gambuj is a beautiful site that reflects the beauty and importance of Islam. Unfortunately,
many people are not aware of it. People of Bangladesh, especially the younger generation must
be educated about the significance of this mosque.
This can be done by teachers in schools, colleges, and even universities. Educational institutions'
authorities can plan study tours where they take students to Shat Gambuj and make them well
alert to its history.
Professional Marketing Campaign
Today’s world is digital and this can help us to promote our historical monuments and sites with
aid of social media platforms. Shat Gambuj can be broadcast to millions with just one post made
on Facebook. Thousands of online users can learn the history of this mosque and perhaps their
desire to visit this place can be ignited.
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Even though social media plays a vital role in raising awareness, word of mouth could also play
a significant role. The diplomats, ambassadors, and consulates of Bangladesh could easily do this
job as they are regularly engaged with foreign people.
Promotion Through Other Means
Newspapers, magazines, brochures, and leaflets about Shat Gambuj could be spread in every
area of Bangladesh which would help to draw massive attention to the splendor of Shat Gambuj.
Increasing Security Measures for Visitors and Tourists
There is a negative vibe amongst tourists when they hear about Bangladesh due to the uncertain
atmosphere of Bangladesh.
No one would like to travel in a country where there is a guarantee of safety. And thus,
Bangladesh’s government should take adequate measures of security in Bagerhat and other
historical places.
Educating Locals
The local people of Bagerhat should be given training so that they know English and could
communicate with foreigners during their visits. In this way, the foreigners would learn more
about the place and also acknowledge the hospitality of the locals.
Building Essential Facilities in Historical Places
In Bagerhat there should be a good number of hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and other
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facilities so that tourists could find their necessities easily. This would be a good way of making
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tourists stay longer and also increasing our economy.

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Organizing Tourist Fairs

Both private and public sectors could participate in arranging tourist fairs in Bangladesh as well
as abroad. In this way, we would be able to let people know about the latest updates on historical
places of our country.
We could give leaflets and brochures about Shat Gambuj to foreigners on their visits to
Bangladesh at the airport. Most foreigners come to Bangladesh for business purposes and thus
have little or no idea about Bangladesh's archeological and historical sites. So, upon their arrival,
we could let them know about it through leaflets and brochures at the airport with no trouble.
Tourists’ visits to Shat Gambuj would certainly contribute to the economic growth but we must
be also cautious that a huge number of tourist visits could also potentially damage the site
forever. And thus, conservation and preservation of Shat Gambuj should be taken into the note to
ensure that this place remains unharmed by all possible means.

Conclusion

Overall, it can be concluded that the Shat Gambuj Mosque acts as a major contribution to the
tourism of the Bangladeshi economy and it helps generate a decent amount of revenue for our
government due to the attraction of a variety of tourists.

The site has been recognised by UNESCO in 1983 as an outstanding example of an architectural
ensemble which illustrates a significant stage in human history and it is our utmost responsibility
to maintain that position forever as it also reflects upon the reputation and image of Bangladesh.

This world heritage is an important place as, according to our findings, people have been
attracted to this mosque and still visit this place and offer their prayers there too. As mentioned
before, there are ways to raise awareness about this place by marketing, promotion by social
media, ads on airports, renovation and security assurance etc.

Moreover, the locals living around the mosque should also have accurate and helpful knowledge
of this asset they have and also have the ability to communicate in English if any foreigner
happens to come and visit this world heritage.

This will further be beneficial for the economy of our country as this is a tourist attraction and as
a result, Bangladesh would be earning higher revenue as well as have a built-up image of
maintaining and conserving a great world heritage.
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References
Nadia. (2022, August 23). Shat Gambuj (Sixty Dome Mosque), a world Heritage site in
Bangladesh. Why This Place. Retrieved from https://whythisplace.com/shat-gambuj-
sixty-dome-mosque/

Siddique, A. A. (2008). Shat Gambuj Mosque (ষাট গ ুজ মস জদ). Wikimedia Commons.

Retrieved from
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Shat_Gombuj_Mosque_(%E0%A6%B7%E0%
A6%BE%E0%A6%9F_%E0%A6%97%E0%A6%AE%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%AC%E0
%A7%81%E0%A6%9C_%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%B8%E0%A6%9C%E0%A6%BF%
E0%A6%A6)_002.jpg
UNB News. (2019). Shat Gambuj Mosque abuzz with tourists. United News of Bangladesh.
Retrieved from https://unb.com.bd/category/Bangladesh/shat-gombuj-mosque-abuzz-
with-tourists/38837
Our Correspondent,Bagerhat, 15 February, 2019, The Daily Star, Shat Gambuj Masjid: Visitors
demand standard hotels, better roads
Retrieved from https://www.thedailystar.net/country/news/shat-gombuj-masjid-visitors-
demand-standard-hotels-better-roads-1702291
18 June 2021, Shat Gambuj Mosque (ষাট গ ুজ মস জদ).
Retrieved from https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Satgumbad_Mosque
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