Imam Reza Shrine Complex
حرم امام رضا
The Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad is one of the largest religious complexes in the world by area, spanning approximately 598,657 square metres — larger than Vatican City. It is centred on the tomb of Imam Reza (765–818 CE), the eighth imam in Twelver Shia Islam, who was buried in Mashhad (meaning 'place of martyrdom'). The complex grew from a single shrine over a thousand years into a vast city-within-a-city, encompassing seven courtyards, multiple prayer halls, the Goharshad Mosque (1418 CE), museums, libraries, a university, and a hospital. The golden dome and gilt minarets are visible from across the city. Non-Muslim visitors may enter the outer courtyards but not the shrine's inner sanctum. It draws an estimated 25–30 million Shia pilgrims every year, making it the most visited pilgrimage site in the Islamic world after Mecca and Medina.
✨ Historical Significance
Why Imam Reza Shrine Complex Matters
Ranked #77 among the world's top 100
One of the largest religious complexes in the world by area (598,657 m²) and Iran's holiest city, Mashhad draws 25–30 million Shia pilgrims annually — the most-visited pilgrimage city in the Islamic world after Mecca and Medina.
Built
818 CE (expanded over centuries)
Location
Iran
Annual Visitors
25 million
Coordinates
36.2840°, 59.6157°
📅 Plan Your Visit to Imam Reza Shrine Complex
Best Season
Spring & Autumn
Recommended months: March to May, September to November
Temperature
Average: 15–28°C (59–82°F)
Visit Duration
Recommended: 30 min – 1.5 hours
Entry Fee
$5–$20 USD (check current rates)
Dress Code
Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
Getting There
Located in Mashhad, Iran. Reach Mashhad by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Mashhad center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
📍 Location of Imam Reza Shrine Complex
Mashhad, Iran · 36.2840°N, 59.6157°E
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Imam Reza Shrine Complex
Visit between prayer times. Most mosques close to tourists during Friday noon prayers.
Women should bring a headscarf. Some mosques provide coverings at the entrance.
Currency: Iranian Rial (IRR). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.
Language: Persian (Farsi). Learn basic greetings in the local language — locals appreciate the effort.
Best time to visit: March to May, September to November. Check current visa requirements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Imam Reza Shrine Complex
Everything you need to know before visiting Imam Reza Shrine Complex.
1Where is Imam Reza Shrine Complex located?
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Imam Reza Shrine Complex is located in Mashhad, Iran. GPS coordinates: 36.284°N, 59.6157°E. It is ranked #77 in our Top 100 World Mosques list.
2When was Imam Reza Shrine Complex built?
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Imam Reza Shrine Complex was built in 818 CE (expanded over centuries). One of the largest religious complexes in the world by area (598,657 m²) and Iran's holiest city, Mashhad draws 25–30 million Shia pilgrims annually — the most-visited pilgrimage city in the Islamic world after Mecca and Medina.
3What is the best time to visit Imam Reza Shrine Complex?
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The best time to visit Imam Reza Shrine Complex in Iran is during March to May, September to November. This is the Spring & Autumn when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 15–28°C (59–82°F).
4How much does it cost to visit Imam Reza Shrine Complex?
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Entry fees for Imam Reza Shrine Complex are approximately $5–$20 USD (check current rates). Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.
5How long should I spend at Imam Reza Shrine Complex?
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Plan to spend 30 min – 1.5 hours at Imam Reza Shrine Complex. Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
6What should I wear when visiting Imam Reza Shrine Complex?
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Remove shoes before entering. Women must cover hair with a scarf. Cover arms and legs. Men should avoid shorts. Some mosques provide coverings.
7How many people visit Imam Reza Shrine Complex each year?
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Imam Reza Shrine Complex receives approximately 25 million visitors per year, making it one of the popular mosques in Iran.
8How do I get to Imam Reza Shrine Complex?
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Located in Mashhad, Iran. Reach Mashhad by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Mashhad center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
9Do I need a visa to visit Iran?
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Check current visa requirements. The local currency is Iranian Rial (IRR). Iran is in the UTC+3:30 timezone.
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🎯 Nearby Attractions
- •Goharshad Mosque (mosques #84)
- •Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque) in Isfahan
- •Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (Pink Mosque) in Shiraz
- •Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque in Isfahan
- •Local museums and cultural centers in Mashhad