US envoy visits Chhoto Sona Masjid

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Brent T Christensen visited the historic 15th-century Chhoto Sona Masjid and other archaeological sites of ancient Gaur in Chapainawabganj on Wednesday, as part of his ongoing tour of North Bengal.

According to a social media post by the US Embassy in Dhaka, the ambassador toured the centuries-old mosque and explored its rich history and architectural significance. The visit reflects continued US interest in Bangladesh’s culture, heritage and historical landmarks.

The ambassador arrived at the 15th-century mosque site in Shibganj upazila at 9:00am from Rajshahi. Considered one of the finest examples of Sultanate-era architecture in Bengal, the mosque, built during the late 15th and early 16th century, is renowned for its intricate stone carvings, decorative design, and golden-hued terracotta ornamentations. Christensen heard about its significance to Bangladesh’s architectural heritage.

Christensen stands tall as he was captured on the lens outside the structure of Chhoto Sona Masjid. Photo: US Embassy Dhaka

Following the mosque visit, the ambassador toured several archaeological remains of the ancient capital of Gaur, including the Tahakhana Mosque and the shrine of Hazrat Shah Niyamatullah. He also observed operations at the Sonamasjid land port and immigration check-post, where he reviewed border management and security activities. At the Sonamasjid Border Outpost, he exchanged views with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) officials, discussing security cooperation and bilateral trade facilitation.

Throughout the visit, Christensen appeared highly interested and delighted, personally capturing photographs of the various structures and expressing keen interest about the region’s rich history and cultural traditions. Local officials briefed him on the historical background and significance of the monuments.

Senior officials accompanying the ambassador included DIG of Rajshahi Range Mohammad Shahjahan, Chapainawabganj Superintendent of Police Gautam Kumar Biswas, Commander of 59 BGB Mahananda Battalion Lt Col Mohammad Tajul Islam Chowdhury, and Shibganj Upazila Nirhabi (Executive) Officer Mazharul Islam.

Local people expressed hope that the ambassador's visit would further highlight Chapainawabganj's archaeological significance on the international stage and strengthen cultural ties between Bangladesh and the United States.

Earlier during his Rajshahi visit, Christensen had admired the region’s famous mangoes at Baneshwar Market, underlining his engagement with local communities and their economic activities. He departed Sonamasjid land port by road at around 11:00am after closing his visit.