| Jamia Masjid | |
|---|---|
Urdu:جامع مسجد سوپور | |
 Distant view of the Jamia Masjid Sopore | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Islam |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Mosque |
| Status | Active |
| Location | |
| Location | Sopore,Baramulla district,Jammu and Kashmir |
  Location of the mosque inJammu and Kashmir | |
| Coordinates | 34°17′21″N74°28′22″E / 34.2891°N 74.4727°E /34.2891; 74.4727 |
| Architecture | |
| Type | Mosque architecture |
| Style | |
| Completed | 17th century |
| Specifications | |
| Length | 54 m (177 ft) |
| Width | 22 m (72 ft) |
| Spire | 3 |
| Materials | Burnt brick, stone, wood, lime mortar |
TheJamia Masjid Sopore (Urdu:جامع مسجد سوپور), also known asJamia Qadim Masjid, is an historicFriday mosque, located inSopore, in the union territory ofJammu and Kashmir,India. The mosque was constructed in the 17th century during the reign of theMughal EmperorAurangzeb. It is the largest mosque in the area and serves as a central hub for religious activities.[1][2] The mosque is situated on the banks of theRiver Jhelum, providing a serene andpicturesque setting.
The mosque is built in a distinctive T-shaped design, measuring approximately 54 metres (177 ft) long and 22 metres (72 ft) wide. The structure incorporates elements of traditionalKashmiri andMughal architecture.[1] The mosque is primarily constructed using burnt bricks, stone, and wood, with lime mortar.
The interior consists of a single prayer hall, divided into three longitudinal bays, each running parallel to theQibla wall. The central bay features a double-height space, illuminated byclerestory lighting. The mosque has a hipped, pitched roof. It is adorned with three decorative spires, known locally as "brangh," situated at the ridge ends of the roof. The original wooden pinjrakari (lattice) shutters have been replaced with modern, arched glazed window shutters.
Theportico is decorated with intricately carved wooden spandrels in the arches, while the ceiling is constructed from plain tongue-and-groove wooden planks. The plinth is made ofashlar masonry, while the superstructure is built using burnt bricks. The ground floor walls are plastered with cement, while the walls of the upper floors are finished with mud plaster.
The mosque has historically played a role beyond its religious function. During theKashmir unrest, particularly between the 1990s and 2016, Jamia Masjid Sopore served as a gathering place for political dissent against Indian rule.[3][2][4]
According to local historical references, Jamia Masjid Sopore was constructed during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the latter part of the 17th century. Over centuries, it has evolved into a prominent place for religious congregations, such as Friday prayers, Eid prayers, and special occasions like Shab prayers.
The mosque has undergone substantial modifications in recent years to adapt to modern needs, yet it retains much of its traditional architectural charm.
