Photo: Directorate General of Antiquities, Government of SindhField guides / Sindh / Thatta, Makli & Keenjhar / Old Jamia Masjid, Makli
Field guide · Heritage
Thatta
Thatta District · Sindh, Pakistan
Old Jamia Masjid, Makli
A ruined 14th-century Samma mosque at Makli, beside the khanqah of Sheikh Hamad Jamali.
The Old Jamia Masjid at Makli stands in ruins between the madrassah of Sheikh Hamad Jamali and his tomb. According to the Makli Nama, Jam Tamachi built it beside the khanqah of his teacher when he returned from Delhi, probably in 1388, and founded the Samma dynasty.
Why go
- ✦A mosque traditionally dated to 1388
- ✦Honeycomb stalactite squinches
- ✦Beside Sheikh Hamad Jamali's khanqah
- ✦Part of the Makli necropolis
About
The mosque, now without its courtyard, measures about 16.9 m by 9 m, with brick walls on a stone plinth and arched openings on the north, south and east. Inside, a single hall is divided into three by two arches. Its dome has fallen, but the corner squinches that once carried it survive, with honeycomb stalactite work beneath them and honeycomb panels beside the central window. Sheikh Hamad Jamali's tomb seems to have been built in the mosque's courtyard.
History
Tradition in the Makli Nama says Jam Tamachi, released from Delhi probably in 1388 after the death of Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq, came to Makli, founded Samma rule and built this Jami mosque beside the khanqah of his mentor Pir Sheikh Hamad Jamali. It served Makli as its main mosque for a long time.
How to Reach
On Makli hill near Thatta, beside the madrassah and tomb of Sheikh Hamad Jamali.
Responsible Travel
Treat the site as protected heritage: do not scratch, climb or remove material, and follow caretaker instructions.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, November to February.
Getting there, On Makli hill near Thatta, beside the madrassah and tomb of Sheikh Hamad Jamali.
Allow, Half an hour; half a day with the rest of Makli.
What to Do
Nearby
Straight-line distance from Old Jamia Masjid, Makli, within 5 km.
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