Imam Reza is the eighth Imam of the Shiites and for this reason, throughout the history of Iran, the people and kings of the time have paid special attention to the construction of Imam Reza Holy Shrine. At present, the area of the shrine, courtyards, mosque and naves around the shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad Mashhad metropolis has reached about one million square meters and this shrine is one of the largest religious sites in the world.
Many decorations, including gilding, delicate and abundant mirrors, tiles and other artworks have been done in Imam Reza’s court.
Most of the historical monuments of Imam Reza’s court belong to the reign of Shahrokh Teymouri and also to the Safavid period. After the Islamic Revolution, the courtyards and areas around the shrine increased a lot.
Mashhad, due to the presence of Imam Reza Holy Shrine, has the first rank in attracting tourists who travel to this city in the form of pilgrimage.
In addition to Iranians, many pilgrims from Muslim countries in the region also travel to Mashhad.
If visiting different parts of the courtyard and shrine of Imam Reza was allowed for foreign tourists, perhaps Mashhad would became the first place to attract non-Muslim foreign tourists too, Because the design, architecture and decoration of the shrine and courtyard spaces as well as rites of the Muslim pilgrimage are all attractive to foreign tourists.
Although the Emam Reza shrine organization has a section to guide and accompany foreign tourists, but they are only allowed to visit limited parts of the shrine and the court of Imam Reza.
Google map link of Imam Reza Holy Shrine
