Monument – Jami Masjid, Champaner
Built by – Sultan Mahmud Begada
Built in – 1513

“Jami Masjid, also known as Jama Masjid in Champaner, is a part of the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park. The historical city of Champaner was founded in the 8th century by Vanraj Chavda, the most prominent king of the Chavda Dynasty.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is amongst the 114 monuments the Baroda Heritage Trust listed. The Jami Masjid is located about 150 feet east of the city walls near the eastern gate.

Dating back to 1513, the mosque’s construction took over 25 years. One of the most notable monuments built by Sultan Mahmud Begada, it is built in Mughal Architectural style. The Mughal architecture is said to have drawn from the architecture of the Sultanates. It is a blend of Jain connotations with the workmanship of Muslim ethos.

It is considered one of the finest mosques in western India with its elegant interiors. The ornamentation on the facade of mosques and tombs consists of symbols and motifs of the sun, diamond, pots, vines and lotus insignia, which were used in the earlier temples. The craftsman had imbibed their craft from their forefathers, who passed on the knowledge of Hindu, Muslim and Jain motifs.

The mosque is an architectural marvel and has become a place of pilgrimage for those who seek blessings from the pir, buried in one corner of the garden.”

Photo Courtesy – www.findmessages.com