Imamzadeh Zeyd is a holy shrine located in the city of Hamadan, Iran. It is dedicated to Imam Zeyd, a descendant of the seventh Shia Imam, Musa al-Kadhim. The shrine is an important pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Hamadan, drawing thousands of visitors every year. Here are 10 things to do in Imamzadeh Zeyd that will make your visit to this holy place even more memorable.
1. Visit the Shrine Complex: The shrine complex of Imamzadeh Zeyd is a stunningly beautiful place. It consists of a large courtyard, a mosque, and several smaller shrines dedicated to other members of the Imami family. The main shrine is a two-story building with a golden dome and intricate tilework. Inside, you can find the tomb of Imam Zeyd and a number of other religious artifacts.
2. Observe the Rituals: Visiting Imamzadeh Zeyd is a great opportunity to observe the rituals and ceremonies that take place there. During the day, visitors can watch as pilgrims perform the Ziyarat, a ritual prayer that is said in front of the shrine. At night, visitors can witness the traditional Muharram ceremonies, which include processions, recitations of the Qur’an, and other rituals.
3. Explore the Bazaar: The bazaar located near Imamzadeh Zeyd is a great place to shop for souvenirs and traditional Iranian handicrafts. Here you can find everything from carpets and jewelry to spices and traditional clothing.
4. Climb the Tower of Silence: The Tower of Silence is a unique structure located near the shrine. It was once used by Zoroastrians as a place to lay out the dead for ritual purification. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can climb to the top for a stunning view of the city.
5. Visit the Tomb of Esther and Mordechai: The Tomb of Esther and Mordechai is located just outside the city of Hamadan. It is believed to be the resting place of the Jewish queen Esther and her uncle Mordechai, who are mentioned in the Bible. The tomb is a popular pilgrimage site for both Muslims and Jews.
6. Explore the Ancient City of Ecbatana: The ancient city of Ecbatana is located just a few miles from Imamzadeh Zeyd. It was once the capital of the ancient Persian Empire and is home to some of the oldest ruins in Iran. Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the city’s fascinating history.
7. Take a Hike in the Mountains: The mountains surrounding Hamadan offer some of the most stunning views in Iran. Visitors can take a hike through the hills and explore the area’s natural beauty.
8. Visit the Tomb of Avicenna: The Tomb of Avicenna is located in the city of Hamadan. Avicenna was a famous Islamic scholar and philosopher who lived in the 11th century. His tomb is a popular pilgrimage site for Muslims and is a great place to learn more about Islamic history and culture.
9. Visit the Tomb of Baba Taher: The Tomb of Baba Taher is located in the city of Hamadan. Baba Taher was a famous Iranian poet who lived in the 11th century. His tomb is a popular pilgrimage site for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Hamadan is home to some of the best traditional Iranian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious dishes, such as kebabs, stews, and rice dishes. Be sure to try the local specialty, the Hamadan ice cream, which is made with rose water and saffron.
Imamzadeh Zeyd is a beautiful and holy place that is full of history and culture. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience or a chance to explore Iran’s rich history, there’s something for everyone in this amazing city. So be sure to add Imamzadeh Zeyd to your list of places to visit in Iran.