Movie & TV Filming Locations in An Najaf, An Najaf, Iraq

1. Imam Ali Shrine

Majestic shrine built over the tomb of Imam Ali, one of Islam's most revered figures. Appeared in Hidden Dragon: The Legend of the RTZ.

Historical Significance: A spiritual and cultural hub for millions of Shia Muslims worldwide.
Architectural Beauty: Stunning tilework, golden domes, and ornate interior designs.
Filming Opportunities: A unique backdrop for filmmakers seeking authentic Middle Eastern settings.

One of the oldest mosques in Iraq, originally built by Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab. Featured in Kingdom of Heaven.

Historical Importance: A key site associated with significant events in Islamic history.
Architectural Integrity: Preserves the traditional architectural style of early Islamic architecture.
Movie Connection: Offers a tangible link to the era depicted in Kingdom of Heaven.

Remnants of the Abbasid Palace built by Caliph Harun al-Rashid. Served as a filming location for One Thousand and One Nights.

Historical Connection: Associated with the famous tales of Scheherazade and Aladdin.
Archaeological Interest: Provides insights into the opulence and grandeur of the Abbasid Dynasty.
Filming Potential: Ideal for filmmakers seeking an authentic setting for Arabian Nights-inspired productions.

Recognizable mosque with a striking blue dome. Featured in The Kingdom.

Unique Architecture: Distinctive blue dome and whitewashed minarets make it a landmark.
Filming History: Has played a role in several major Hollywood productions.
Community Gathering Space: Serves as a spiritual and social hub for the local community.

Ancient mosque dating back to the Umayyad era. Appeared in The Message and Hidden Dragon: The Legend of the RTZ.

Historical Significance: One of the oldest mosques in Iraq, with a rich history spanning over a millennium.
Architectural Preservation: A rare example of Umayyad architectural style in Iraq.
Filming Potential: Offers a glimpse into the architecture of early Islamic periods.

Modern Husseiniyah (shrine) built by Saddam Hussein. Featured in The Messenger.

Modern Architecture: A striking example of modern Islamic architecture.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for the epic biographical drama The Messenger.
Community Gathering Space: A place of worship and community gatherings for Shia Muslims.

Prominent educational institution with a beautiful campus. Featured in The Message.

Academic Significance: A prestigious educational institution for Shia theology and Islamic studies.
Historical Connection: Home to one of the most important centers for Shia scholarship.
Filming Opportunities: Offers a picturesque setting for various film and TV productions.

The house where Imam Ali was born. Featured in The Messenger.

Historical Importance: A significant site associated with the life of Imam Ali.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for The Messenger.
Community Pilgrimage: A site of pilgrimage for millions of Shia Muslims.

Airbase used as a filming location for The Hurt Locker.

Military History: A key Iraqi military installation with a significant role in recent history.
Filming Connection: Offered a realistic backdrop for the Oscar-winning film The Hurt Locker.
Security Considerations: Access might be restricted due to its military status.

Grand mosque constructed by Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. Featured in The Messenger.

Modern Architecture: A striking example of contemporary Islamic architecture.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for The Messenger.
Community Gathering Space: A place of worship and community gatherings for the local Shia Muslim population.

The tomb of a Companion of Prophet Muhammad. Featured in The Message.

Historical Significance: A site of importance to Sunnis and Shias alike.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for The Message.
Community Pilgrimage: A site of pilgrimage for Muslims seeking spiritual enlightenment.

The entrance to the mausoleum of Imam Ali. Featured in The Messenger.

Historical Importance: A sacred site for Shia Muslims, housing the tomb of Imam Ali.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for The Messenger.
Community Pilgrimage: A site of pilgrimage for millions of Shia Muslims.

The shrine dedicated to Sayyid Abdul Hussain al-Shirazi. Featured in The Messenger.

Historical Significance: A site of importance for both Sunnis and Shias.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for The Messenger.
Community Pilgrimage: A site of pilgrimage for Muslims seeking spiritual enlightenment.

An iconic mosque known for its distinctive minarets. Featured in The Messenger.

Historical Significance: A significant place of worship and community gathering.
Architectural Beauty: Famous for its unique minarets and intricate designs.
Filming Connection: Provided a filming location for The Messenger.

The shrine dedicated to Imam Hussein's brother, Al-Abbas. Featured in The Messenger.