The 600 years old Mosque. Masjid Amburiq Shigar Valley

Описание: The 600 years old Mosque. Masjid Amburiq Shigar Valley #shorts #youtubeshortsvideo

The Amburiq Masjid in Shigar is often regarded as the oldest surviving mosque in Gilgit-Baltistan. Its origins trace back to the 14th century, during a time when Islam was first spreading through the valleys of Baltistan. According to local tradition, the mosque was commissioned soon after Syed Ali Hamadani – the great Sufi scholar and missionary from Persia – visited the region and inspired many communities to embrace Islam. The masjid became one of the first centers of worship in Shigar, serving as a symbol of this new spiritual chapter in local life.

Architecturally, Amburiq Masjid tells a fascinating story of cultural exchange. Built largely of timber and stone, it reflects Tibetan and Kashmiri influences, blended with Balti craftsmanship. The carved wooden beams, low ceilings, and inward-looking design are reminders of the Tibetan-style temples that once dotted the region, but the mosque gave them a new Islamic identity. Over the centuries, villagers maintained it with great care, repairing the woodwork and stone walls while keeping its original form intact.

By the late 20th century, however, the centuries-old structure was at risk of collapse. Recognizing its cultural and religious value, the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan undertook a careful restoration project in the 1990s. The work not only preserved the mosque’s historic features but also revived community pride in their heritage. Today, Amburiq Masjid still functions as a place of prayer, while also standing as a precious reminder of how faith, tradition, and craftsmanship came together in the heart of Baltistan over 600 years ago. #travlevlog #shigarvalley #gilgitbaltistan #heritage #Beautyofnorth #beautiful #pakistan #tourismpakistan