Iran is one of the most critical countries in the Islamic world, and it’s got some cool religious and pilgrimage sites everywhere. These religious destinations in Iran bring in a bunch of tourists every year from all around the world. They come to check out these holy places and also explore Iran by traveling around. So, if you’re thinking about going on a trip to Iran and checking out its religious sites, join Kental Travel to become familiar with these Religious Sites in Iran. They’ll help you get acquainted with Iran’s most excellent religious spots and give you all the details you need.
Top Religious Destinations in Iran
Visiting top religious destinations is on of the things to do in Iran, especially for those whose goal is to go on a pilgrimage. So, here are the most famous religious sites in Iran:
Imam Reza Holy Shrine – Mashhad
Mashhad, known as the spiritual capital of Iran, is one of the most important tourist destinations in the country. The holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS) is the city’s main attraction every year. It draws millions of pilgrims from all over Iran and the world. This religious site in Iran holds great value for all Muslims. It is captivating and worth seeing for foreign tourists due to its architecture, tilework, mirrorwork, wood carving, museum, and rich historical and cultural heritage.
See More: Iran Visa Application
Who Was Imam Reza?
Imam Ali ibn Musa al-Reza, the eighth Imam of Shia Muslims, attained martyrdom by order of Mamun, the son of Harun al-Rashid, the reigning Abbasid caliph, on the last day of the month of Safar in the year 203 AH. Initially, the burial place of Imam Reza (AS) was a small village called Sanabad, located a short distance from the city of Tus. However, over time, due to the blessings of the presence of the eighth Imam of Shia Muslims, this small village transformed into a great city known as Mashhad al-Reza.
Fatima Masumeh Holy Shrine
The shrine of Hazrat Masoumeh is considered the main tourist attraction in Qom, and it’s the second most important religious site in Iran after the Imam Reza shrine. This blessed place is the burial site of Imam Reza’s (AS) sister, which holds a special historical significance and has experienced various ups and downs throughout history. This shrine has different sections and facilities such as the courtyard, nocturnal prayer area, museum, library, guesthouse, safekeeping of valuable items, parking, bridal chamber, and more. Its architecture is among the most beautiful Islamic and Iranian architecture, adorned with many decorations.
See More: Top Most Beautiful Mosques in Iran
Zoroastrien’s Dakhmeh (Towers of silence)
Zoroastrians are among the religious minorities in Iran, and their traces can be seen in various parts of the country. The Dakhmeh of Zoroastrians in Yazd is one of these remnants, also known as the Tower of Silence. This Dakhmeh is located about 15 kilometers southeast of Yazd, near the Safaieh region, atop a low sedimentary mountain named Dakhmeh Mountain. This religious site in Iran is one of the symbols of ancient Zoroastrian customs and rituals related to their burial ceremonies. These ceremonies have become obsolete today but have left a legacy behind.(You can read more about Yazd tourist attractions in this article: Yazd tourist attractions )
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Fars province, located in Shiraz. The play of light and colors in its space enchants everyone. The mosque features a lush and beautiful courtyard, a sloped mihrab, towering columns, and a mesmerizing facade boasting precise and delicate architecture and design. The mosque covers an area of 2890 square meters with a built-up area of 2216 square meters, and it was constructed between the years 1255 to 1267 in the solar Hijri calendar. Every year, many tourists travel to Shiraz to visit the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque. It’s one of the most beautiful Religious Places to Visit in Iran.
Vank Cathedral
Vank Cathedral, the largest and most famous church in Iran, is situated in the Jolfa neighborhood of Isfahan and knwn as one of themost famous iran holy places. The church’s walls and ceiling are adorned with unique and exquisite decorations. Initially built as a sacred place for performing Christian religious practices, this magnificent structure now houses a museum and showcases numerous fascinating and captivating artifacts. All these distinctive features combined have turned this grand and remarkable building into an unparalleled tourist attraction.
Shah Cheragh
One of the most beautiful religious sites in Iran is Shah Cheragh. The Shah Cheragh Shrine in Shiraz is like a shining gem among the captivating places to see in Shiraz. Shah Cheragh is the son of the seventh Imam of Shia Muslims. The construction of the Shah Cheragh building dates back to the sixth century AH (Islamic calendar) during the Atabakan period of Fars.
The architecture of the shrine is a brilliant example of Azerbaijani architectural style. Its ceiling and walls are adorned with the art of mirrorwork and tilework, featuring Persian and Arabic calligraphy lines that enhance its beauty. Anyone who sees it is unconsciously mesmerized by the artistic design and the finesse put into its execution.
See More: Shah Cheragh, The most beautiful mosques in Shiraz
Jamkaran Mosque
The Jamekaran Mosque, one of the holy Shrines in Iran, attributed to Imam Zaman (AJ), the twelfth Shia Imam, is located on the outskirts of Qom. His order built it in the fourth century AH (Islamic calendar). This mosque hosts certain religious ceremonies like the celebration of Mid-Sha’ban, the Tawassul prayer, and the Nudba supplication. People from various regions of Iran and worldwide, especially on Thursday nights, gather at the Jamekaran Mosque. In the outdoor area of the mosque and behind its building, there is a well-known “Chah-e Arzdeh.” Considering its sanctity, some Shia believers toss their letters and petitions to Imam Zaman into this well.
Atashgah
The Atashgah of Isfahan is a religious site in Iran. This is a historical and very ancient complex with over 1000 years of history, located in the western part of Isfahan on the heights of Atashgah Mountain. Atashgah Mountain was considered a sacred place and the burial site of Tahmuresh, a prophet who, according to historical accounts, lived around the 6th century BC. This fire temple is one of the seven very large and significant fire temples of the Sassanian era, characterized by its beautiful and ancient architecture and its rich and important historical background.
Holy shrine of Imam Khomeini
The Grand Mausoleum of Imam Khomeini, famously known as the “Holy Shrine,” is located at the southernmost point of Tehran, next to the Behesht-e Zahra Martyrs’ Cemetery. This structure, essentially the mausoleum of Imam Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, boasts magnificent architecture and is considered one of the most significant religious sites in Iran. The striking architecture of the main tomb’s design was entrusted to Parviz Moayed Bahar. The Imam Khomeini Shrine isn’t just a holy site and place of pilgrimage; it has now transformed into an extensive religious and tourist complex, thanks to the facilities provided for it.
Emamzadeh Saleh
Imamzadeh Saleh in Tehran is one of Iran Holy Places and historical centers in the sprawling city of Tehran. This Sacred Sites of Iran hold significant importance for tourists and the capital’s residents. This Imamzadeh is situated in the Tajrish neighborhood of Tehran, one of the city’s most important and renowned neighborhoods. Imamzadeh Saleh is one of the children of Imam Musa al-Kadhim and one of the brothers of the eighth Imam (AS). The structure of the Imamzadeh Saleh building in Tehran is quadrilateral and quite spacious. Based on the appearance of the domes, the wall coverings, and the architectural style of the Imamzadeh Saleh building can be traced back to the 7th and 8th centuries.
See More: Top attractions in Tehran
Final Thoughts
Embark on a spiritual journey through Iran’s majestic landscapes and discover the country’s most revered religious sites. From the tranquil oasis of Mashhad’s Holy Shrine to the awe-inspiring beauty of Isfahan’s Imam Mosque, Iran offers a tapestry of holy places that will leave you in awe. Delve into centuries of rich history, profound spirituality, and architectural marvels that stand as testaments to faith. Whether you seek solace, enlightenment, or simply a deeper understanding of Iran’s cultural heritage, these top 10 holy places will captivate your heart and soul. Open your mind, embrace the divine, get your visa with the help of a reliable Iran travel agency and let Iran’s sacred splendor leave an indelible mark on your spiritual journey.
FAQs about Important Religious Places to Visit in Iran
- Which Imam is buried in Iran?
The 8th Shia Imam, Imam Reza, was buried at the Imam Reza shrine in the northeastern Iranian province of Khorasan Razavi. - What are the religious cities of Iran?
The 5 top religious sites in Iran are Mashhad, Qom, Shiraz, Isfahan and Tehran. - How many Ziyarats are in Iran?
Iran is home to a large number of Ziyarat sites because of its rich religious and cultural history. Some are major destinations are Imam Reza Holy Shrine, Fatima Masumeh Holy Shrine, and Jamkaran Mosque.
