Sepahsalar Mosque and School (Shahid Motahari School)

The Sepahsalar Mosque and School, now known as Shahid Motahari School, is one of the most significant Qajar-era religious and educational complexes in Tehran. Built in the late 19th century, it represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of Iranian mosque architecture, particularly in its innovative approach to dome space and courtyard relationships. The building features a cross-type plan that enables the dome space to relate to all surrounding areas, a departure from the more rigid spatial separations of earlier periods. While the Qajar period saw a decline in ornamental quality compared to Safavid masterworks, the Sepahsalar Mosque demonstrates remarkable spatial creativity and a forward-looking approach to architectural design.