Amburik Masjid Shigar
The word Amburik derived from the village’s name where it is situated. The Amburik Masjid Shigar was built in 14th century by some Irani craftsmen who were travelling with the great Islamic preacher Ameer Kabeer Syed Ali Hamdani (R.A). The traditional cribbage and technique was used to design this mosque. Being old mosque in Baltistan region, the holy ancient mosque Amburik Masjid is very popular and people comes from all over the world to see this mosque.
The mosque also possesses rich carved motifs and strong structural elements. During the year of 1998, AKCSP funded to local community to restore the holy mosque. In 2005, recognized it with a UNESCO Award of Heritage Conservation. Amburik Mosque represents the first Islamic religious monument in Baltistan.
1. Construction of Amburik Masjid Shigar
The mosque was built by Amir Kabir Syed Ali Hamdani (R.A) in the 14th century (between 1372 -1383), Syed Ali Hamdani passed through the famous Braldu La pass into Shigar with his missionaries. The structure of mosque was erected with the help of local’s techniques, which were a combination of Kashmiri, Balti and Persian architectural patterns keeping in mind the symbols and motifs. There is wooden shell based on cribbage columns and beams and replete with floral on the outside.
2. Location of Amburik Masjid Shigar
Mosque is located in the village of Amburiq district Shigar. The mosque constructed during a powerful state in Central “the Khwarezmian Empire, Asia”. This Mosque is a true testament to the artistic and architectural excellence of its time. There are seem that the construction is combination of various Islamic architectural styles, resulting in a unique and captivating design. The Mosque is covered about 63m².
3. Structure and Design of Amburik Masjid Shigar
The mosque’s external is decorated with geometric patterns, which a hallmark of Islamic architecture. The design of geometric shapes such as stars, polygons, and arabesques adds an aesthetic charm to the building. The towering archway serves as the main entrance and is adorned with decorative tiles and inscriptions from the Quran. There are two minars, each adorned with detailed brickwork and calligraphy. These are symbolize the significance of the mosque in the community.
The mihrab indicating the direction of Mecca, is exquisitely designed with intricate calligraphy. There is a courtyard, which is surrounded by a covered prayer hall, which is an inviting space for worshipers to gather and engage in communal prayers and religious activities. The interior section is adorned with beautifully crafted tiles that depict Quranic verses and intricate floral motifs. These tiles brings a feeling of mesmerizing atmosphere within the prayer area.
The mosque is symbol in preserving the cultural heritage of the region and provides reminder of the Islamic contributions to art and architecture. The local community hosts and celebrates the regular religious events, including prayers, educational lectures, and community gatherings regarding religious affairs. This mosque has a spiritual anchor for villagers of Amburiq and the surrounding areas of Shigar.
4. How to reach Amburik Mosque
After reaching Skardu by Air or by road, you have to move towards Shigar valley, which only 30 minutes, on drive. You may choose local transports, where you have to go at Jail Garh Skardu where you can easily get public transport. It is adjacent to Shigar Fort, wherefrom you can visit the mosque by foot. After walking from various villages small beautiful streets, you will reach the destination.
There is also facility of Wazoo and you can enter in the mosque. After reaching here, you will feel an amazing spiritual relaxation. Remember to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall. Taking photographs is generally allowed, but it’s polite to ask for permission first. Its stunning design and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty of Islamic art and architecture.
Visiting this holy ancient mosque, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse cultural heritage of the Islamic world. It is a living testament to the enduring legacy of Islamic civilization and its contributions to art and architecture.
5. A Small Museum
In Masjid e Amburik, there is a small museum for the visitors, which creates awareness of this historical significance and a conservative attitude towards significant buildings in the local community.
6. Hospitability of the villagers
The villagers of Amburik are very popular for hostability of guests. The local people looksafter the holy ancient mosque. After reaching Shigar Fort, you must be visit this mosque, which is not away from the fort. You may gain a spiritual relaxation from here. There is no any restriction visiting the mosque, however there is a dire need to follow the rules and regulation like as a holy ancient place. The foreign guests, trekkers, mountaineers casually visit the mosque because it is adjacent to Shigar fort and being a historical and very popular mosque. The people who comes from down cities, also like to visit this mosque.
