Which major buildings surround Naqsh-e Jahan Square?

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Naqsh-e Jahan Square (also known as Maydān-e Emām) in Isfahan is surrounded by several significant architectural landmarks that reflect the city's Safavid-era heritage:

  • Masjed-e Emām (Imam Mosque): Located at the southern end of the square, this mosque is renowned for its brilliant enameled tile work and was begun in 1611/12.12
  • Masjed-e Shaykh Luṭf Allāh (Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque): Situated on the eastern side of the square, this structure served as the private mosque for Shah Abbas I.12
  • ‘Ālī Qāpū (Lofty Gate): Positioned on the western side, this high, arched building features an immense covered balcony (tālār) that historically served as an audience hall and a vantage point for the shah to observe events in the square.12
  • Qayṣariyyeh (Royal Bazaar): A tiled gateway at the northern end of the square leads into this historic marketplace.12

The spaces between these major structures are filled with two-story buildings of uniform design featuring arched recesses.1