10 Things to Do at Al-Hussein Shrine in Najaf, Iraq
The Al-Hussein Shrine in Najaf, Iraq is one of the holiest sites in the Islamic world. Located in the center of the city, the shrine is dedicated to the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib. Millions of pilgrims from around the world visit the shrine each year to pay their respects to the Imam and to seek spiritual guidance. Whether you’re a religious pilgrim or a curious traveler, here are 10 things to do at Al-Hussein Shrine in Najaf.
1. Visit the Shrine of Imam Ali
The centerpiece of the Al-Hussein Shrine is the Shrine of Imam Ali. Built in the 9th century, the shrine is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate golden dome, intricately painted walls, and beautiful stained glass windows.
2. Participate in a Ritual Prayer
The Al-Hussein Shrine is a place of worship, and visitors can participate in a ritual prayer with the other pilgrims. Before entering the shrine, visitors must take off their shoes and cover their heads.
3. Take a Tour of the Shrine
The Al-Hussein Shrine offers guided tours of the shrine and its grounds. The tour will take you through the various courtyards and chambers of the shrine, and you’ll learn about the history and significance of the site.
4. Explore the Courtyards
The Al-Hussein Shrine has several courtyards, each with a different purpose. The inner courtyard is the most sacred part of the shrine, and visitors are not allowed to enter. The outer courtyards are open to the public and are filled with souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes.
5. Visit the Mausoleum of Imam Ali
The Mausoleum of Imam Ali is located in the inner courtyard of the shrine. The mausoleum is the resting place of Imam Ali and is a revered site for Shia Muslims. Visitors to the shrine can pay their respects at the mausoleum, but they must remain silent and respectful while in the inner courtyard.
6. Shop in the Souvenir Shops
The courtyards of the Al-Hussein Shrine are filled with souvenir shops selling a variety of items, from prayer rugs and religious texts to jewelry and traditional Iraqi clothing.
7. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Restaurant
The courtyards of the Al-Hussein Shrine are also home to several restaurants and cafes. Visitors can enjoy a traditional Iraqi meal or a cup of coffee while admiring the views of the shrine.
8. Attend a Ceremony or Festival
The Al-Hussein Shrine hosts several religious ceremonies and festivals throughout the year. The most important of these is the Ashura ceremony, which commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Ali.
9. Visit the Shrine of Imam Husayn
The Al-Hussein Shrine is also home to the Shrine of Imam Husayn, the son of Imam Ali. The shrine is located to the east of the main shrine and is a popular pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims.
10. Explore the City of Najaf
Najaf is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions to explore. Visitors can visit the historic Grand Mosque, explore the bustling markets, or take a boat ride on the Euphrates River.
No matter what your reason for visiting, the Al-Hussein Shrine in Najaf, Iraq is a must-see destination. From the Shrine of Imam Ali to the bustling markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, make sure to add the Al-Hussein Shrine to your list of places to visit in Iraq.