Architectural Engineering Lecturer from Cihan University-Erbil Designs the Barzani Grand Mosque in Erbil
Under the direct mandate and supervision of Masrour Barzani, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, the architectural design of the Barzani Grand Mosque in Erbil began in 2023. The master design of this strategic project was entrusted to Engineer Goran Rashid Fattah, a lecturer in the Department of Architectural Engineering at Cihan University-Erbil and the founder of GRAF Engineering Consultancy.
During the foundation stone-laying ceremony, the Prime Minister commended the artistic vision and extensive engineering expertise of Engineer Goran Rashid Fattah, stating: “It is with great pride that this architecture was conceived through a Kurdish idea and executed by Kurdish engineering hands. We sought a highly capable professional who could transform this vision into a tangible reality. After numerous consultations and design refinements with Dr. Goran, we achieved the magnificent result seen today. I applaud Engineer Goran for this exceptional work, which will serve our citizens.”
The design features a distinct Kurdish identity inspired by Rashmal, a traditional Kurdish tent style, which reflects the natural landscape of Kurdistan and the distinguished life of the national leader, Mustafa Barzani. Spanning over two million square meters, it is considered the largest mosque project globally in terms of its total land area and is ranked third worldwide for its worshipper capacity. The project’s architectural philosophy seamlessly integrates authentic Kurdish heritage and natural beauty with modern contemporary aesthetics.
The architectural structure incorporates significant historical symbolism, consisting of the main dome that spans 64 meters in diameter and four minarets approximately 76 meters in height—a number symbolizing the age of the national leader, Mustafa Barzani. The main entrance stands 21 meters high, making it one of the tallest mosque gates in the world. The main prayer hall accommodates 9,000 worshippers, in addition to extensive outdoor spaces and gardens designated for religious and social ceremonies.
More than a place of worship, the Barzani Grand Mosque is a major intellectual and cultural hub. Its complexity includes a library, a museum, a religious school, a conference center, and the largest archive of Kurdish and religious manuscripts. Environmental sustainability and aesthetic factors are prioritized through the creation of one of the world’s largest artificial waterfalls, including lakes and meticulously landscaped gardens. This project stands as an enduring symbol of faith, identity, and the grandeur of Kurdistan’s history.
