WANA (Apr 13) – Official reports from Iran indicate that following the blast waves caused by recent explosions near Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the tilt of one of the columns beneath the dome of the Shah Mosque (Imam Mosque) has worsened, raising concerns about the stability of this prominent historic structure.

 

The Director General of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts of Isfahan Province stated that one of the columns under the dome of this Safavid-era mosque has deviated by approximately 1.5 to 2 centimeters. According to him, this deformation is not solely the result of the blast waves; pre-existing uneven land subsidence had already contributed to the issue.

 

Based on structural assessments by experts, the columns in the mosque’s prayer hall had previously tilted about 7 centimeters to the south and 5 centimeters to the east due to ground subsidence—a condition that could affect the structural balance of the dome. Reports now indicate that this deviation has intensified in one of the key supporting columns beneath the dome.

 

The Shah Mosque, located on the southern side of Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is considered one of the most significant architectural masterpieces of the Safavid period. Its dome, standing approximately 50 meters high with a span of 22 meters and a double-shell structure, is among the largest examples of historic domes in the world.

 

Local officials have also reported damage to other historic buildings within the complex. According to the provincial cultural heritage director, two columns in the Ali Qapu Palace have developed cracks, and signs of deviation have been observed in one of the central columns of the Chehel Sotoun complex. These damages, particularly in decorative elements, have been described as concerning.

 

Experts warn that due to the nature of traditional materials used in historic buildings, the effects of structural damage may not become immediately visible and can worsen over time. Therefore, continuous monitoring and the use of advanced equipment—such as seismographs and precise structural assessment tools—are considered essential to evaluate the condition of these monuments.

 

A geotechnical specialist had previously emphasized that domed structures are particularly sensitive to strong vibrations due to the way vertical and horizontal stresses are distributed. According to the expert, if damage to the supporting columns intensifies, there is a risk of widespread instability in the dome’s structure and even potential collapse.

 

Cultural heritage authorities have announced that preliminary studies have begun and that plans for emergency restoration and structural stabilization are underway. The aim of these measures is to prevent further damage and preserve one of the world’s most important architectural heritage sites.