Weird & Unusual Attractions in An Najaf, An Najaf, Iraq

1. Imam Ali's (as) Mausoleum

A historic shrine and one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam. It houses the tomb of Imam Ali, the Prophet Muhammad's son-in-law and fourth caliph.

Architectural Beauty: Features an impressive mix of Islamic, Persian, and Abbasid architectural elements.
Spiritual Significance: Pilgrimage destination for millions of Shia Muslims worldwide.
Historic Importance: Construction began in the 7th century and has undergone numerous restorations.

A golden-domed structure located at the Imam Ali (as) Shrine. It is one of the largest domes in the world.

Impressive Size: The dome measures 50 meters high and covers an area of approximately 24,000 square meters.
Gold Plating: The exterior is covered in 21-karat gold plating.
Architectural Statement: Serves as a powerful symbol of faith and devotion.

A unique, mobile structure that is dismantled and rebuilt every year for Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Temporary Architecture: Built to accommodate millions of pilgrims during the Arbaeen procession.
Religious Significance: Honors Imam Husain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.
Community Spirit: Brings together millions of people from diverse backgrounds in a shared act of devotion.

Houses the tomb of Imam Ali's (as) son, Abbas ibn Ali. Known for its intricate tilework.

Tilework Artistry: Features elaborate blue and turquoise tile designs.
Historic Importance: The shrine dates back to the early Islamic period.
Devotional Significance: Attracts devotees seeking blessings and intercession.

A mosque built over the tomb of Imam Husain's (as) grandson, Ali al-Husayn Zainul Abidin.

Architectural Style: Features a blend of Ottoman and Persian architectural elements.
Historic Significance: Built in the early 17th century, it is one of Najaf's oldest mosques.
Devotional Importance: Visited by thousands of devotees seeking blessings and intercession.

One of the oldest mosques in Najaf, built during the Umayyad era.

Historic Significance: Constructed around 750 AD, it is an important piece of Islamic history.
Architectural Style: Features a combination of Umayyad and Abbasid architectural styles.
Community Gathering Place: Serves as a gathering place for the local community and visitors.

The shrine of Imam Ali al-Hadi, the ninth imam of Twelver Shia Islam.

Devotional Significance: A popular destination for devotees seeking blessings and intercession.
Architectural Style: Features a unique blend of Islamic, Persian, and Abbasid architectural elements.
Historic Importance: Dates back to the early Islamic period.

A bustling street lined with shops and eateries, particularly active during Arbaeen pilgrimage.

Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
Food & Shopping: Features a variety of local delicacies and souvenir shops.
Religious Significance: Serves as a central hub during the Arbaeen pilgrimage.

The shrine of Imam Ali al-Naqi, the eleventh imam of Twelver Shia Islam.

Devotional Significance: A popular destination for devotees seeking blessings and intercession.
Architectural Style: Features a unique blend of Islamic, Persian, and Abbasid architectural elements.
Historic Importance: Dates back to the early Islamic period.

The shrine of Imam Hassan al-Askari, the twelfth imam of Twelver Shia Islam.

Devotional Significance: A major destination for devotees seeking blessings and intercession.
Architectural Style: Features a unique blend of Islamic, Persian, and Abbasid architectural elements.
Historic Importance: Dates back to the early Islamic period.

One of the oldest mosques in Najaf, built during the Umayyad era.

Historic Significance: Constructed around 750 AD, it is an important piece of Islamic history.
Architectural Style: Features a combination of Umayyad and Abbasid architectural styles.
Community Gathering Place: Serves as a gathering place for the local community and visitors.

A mosque built over the tomb of Imam Husain's (as) great-grandson, Hussein ibn Ali.

Architectural Style: Features a blend of Ottoman and Persian architectural elements.
Historic Significance: Built in the early 17th century, it is one of Najaf's oldest mosques.
Devotional Importance: Visited by thousands of devotees seeking blessings and intercession.

The shrine of Imam Ali al-Sajjad, the third imam of Twelver Shia Islam.

Devotional Significance: A popular destination for devotees seeking blessings and intercession.
Architectural Style: Features a unique blend of Islamic, Persian, and Abbasid architectural elements.
Historic Importance: Dates back to the early Islamic period.

A historical mosque located in the heart of Najaf's old city.

Historic Significance: Dating back to the early Islamic period, it is one of Najaf's oldest mosques.
Architectural Style: Features a combination of Umayyad and Abbasid architectural styles.
Community Gathering Place: Serves as a gathering place for the local community and visitors.

A historical mosque located in Najaf's old city, known for its beautiful tilework.

Tilework Artistry: Features intricate blue and turquoise tile designs.
Historic Significance: Dating back to the early Islamic period, it is one of Najaf's oldest mosques.
Community Gathering Place: Serves as a gathering place for the local community and visitors.