The Architectural and Historical Significance of the Nine-Domed Kasba Mosque in Barisal, Bangladesh: A Comparative Study with Islamic Heritage

Abstract

The Kasba Mosque, located in the Gaurnadi Upazila of Barisal district, stands as one of the most prominent ancient Islamic monuments in southern Bangladesh. This research investigates the historical origins and unique architectural features of this nine-domed structure, which dates back to the 15th or 16th century. Although no foundational inscription has been discovered, architectural similarities strongly link it to the "Khan Jahan Ali" style of the Bengal Sultanate, showing a fascinating parallel to the multi-domed traditions found in the wider Islamic world, including Iraq. Architecturally, the mosque is square-shaped, measuring 16.96 meters on each side with thick walls of 2.18 meters. Its interior is divided into nine equal bays by four massive stone pillars, believed to be made of basalt.

​The research highlights the intricate terracotta ornamentations—lotuses, chains, and floral patterns—representing the syncretic art of medieval Bengal. The study also explores accounts by Henry Beveridge and Dr. Ahmad Hasan Dani, recognizing the mosque’s role as a religious hub. By analyzing its structural layout, this paper presents the Kasba Mosque as a crucial link in understanding the expansion of Islamic influence in the Bengal Delta. For international readers, particularly in Iraq, this study offers a unique perspective on how Islamic architectural DNA evolved in the humid terrains of the Indian subcontinent while maintaining its core spiritual essence.