Centuries-old mosque glorifies Mughal architectural excellence.

TAXILA -- In a lush green valley surrounded by gardens and sparkling springs, a finely intact Mughal-era mosque is testimony to the ecological reverence observed by architects of the time as they designed their structures.

The Potohar region is filled with similarly unique historical places that trace back to Buddhist, Mughal, Sikh, Hindu and Muslim culture. The mosque, located in Wah village, was erected upon a three-domed structure, flanked by four minarets which appear to have been added much later. This mosque has a unique and un-matched architectural significance as its interior is decorated with stucco, murals and calligraphy. Three arched entrances lead to the main prayer hall.

The arch entrances are adorned with Quranic verses. The mosque's domed ceiling bears haft rang (seven colours) patterns which were a known peculiar style of Mughal painters. This style was introduced in the region by artists who came from Persia at that time. Later on, it was also used in tile mosaics.

The interior wall depicts floral and geometric designs. On some patterns, glass pieces were added to make the design more perceptible.

Residents of the area restored the decoration inside the mosque and old patterns were filled with fresh colours. Masons were brought from various parts of the country especially South Punjab, who repaired the mosque and repainted the same designs by reproducing old patterns on tracing papers.

'The Wah village, where the mosque was built, belongs to the warrior clan of Khattars, who accompanied Sultan Mehmood Ghauri in his successful invasion of India from...