Masjid-i Imam, Isfahan, Iran

Fountains play outside the Masjid-i Imam in Isfahan. It was begun in 1611 and was originally called the Masjid-i Shah. Almost every surface of the building is covered with patterned tilework, even the two high towers called minarets. The magnificent decoration of the mosque includes bold tilework inscriptions containing holy texts. These and other designs are reflected in the large pool in the middle of the great courtyard. On each side of the courtyard is a vaulted space called an iwan.