The Shrine of Imam Ali is one of the most important religious sites in Iraq.
The Shrine of Imam Ali is one of the most important religious sites in Iraq. And, indeed, the Muslim world.
Located in Najaf, the Imam Ali Shrine is the burial place of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib.
This was the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad.
Imam Ali is a central figure in Shi’a Islam. He is revered as the first Imam. He’s often seen as a symbol of justice and courage.
Najaf is considered one of the holiest cities for Shi’a Muslims.
The shrine here attracts millions of pilgrims every year who come to pay their respects, seek blessings, and pray.
It’s also home to one of the world’s biggest pilgrimages.
The shrine complex includes the mosque, a vast courtyard, minarets, and a golden dome that shines brightly over the city.
The dome itself is an iconic feature of Najaf’s skyline. The golden dome is made of gold-plated tiles and decorated with Quranic inscriptions.
Imam Ali was assassinated in 661 CE in the city of Kufa, Iraq. His body was secretly buried in Najaf to protect it from enemies.
Over the centuries, the shrine was expanded and renovated by various rulers, including the Abbasids, Safavids, and Ottomans.
In recent decades, the shrine has been restored and modernised, balancing tradition with the needs of millions of visitors. It remains a vibrant hub of religious life and learning.
The minarets on the outside are tall and elegant. This immediately marks the shrine’s prominence.
And of course, the most fabulous feature is the big golden dome.
The complex is massive.
Depending on the time of day you visit, it may be very crowded.
Upon entering, there are marble floors, and toilets where you can go to wash before you enter the shrine.
There are two entrances, one for men and one for women.
Inside, the shrine features intricate tilework, stained glass, and beautifully carved wooden doors.
It’s truly spectacular.
The Zarih, a silver lattice structure, surrounds the tomb and is touched by pilgrims seeking blessings. So pilgrims often wait in long queues just for a brief moment.
Pilgrims perform specific rituals at the shrine, including circling the tomb, touching the Zarih, and reciting prayers.
Najaf’s holy status means the city often hosts large religious events, especially during Ashura and Arba’een.
The shrine is also close to the Wadi-us-Salaam, the largest cemetery in the world, where many Shi’a wish to be buried near Imam Ali.
Najaf is accessible by road and air, with airports serving domestic and some international flights.
Visiting, especially during busy times, is not for the faint-hearted.
It might be peaceful.
It might be chaos. It really depends on the day. Most likely, it will be very busy and quite chaotic, so be prepared!
You should dress modestly and respect local customs, especially during religious festivals.
You’ll have to make sure to dress appropriately, or else you may be corrected by the staff working there.
Or even kicked out.
And taking photos inside may not be welcomed. Do be aware that people are there to pray and for religious reasons, so be mindful of your behaviour.
Notably, some women may not wish to be photographed.
There is a market right next to the shrine for those who wish to purchase an abaya. You may also be given extra material to cover up when inside (especially as a woman) if the staff deem your attire not appropriate.
Nevertheless, the shrine is open to all - regardless of your religious dominations - and it continues to welcome millions of visitors yearly. A true must-see for those interested in Islamic culture, history, and architecture.
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