Al-Kadhimayn Shrine
Baghdād
The Al-Kadhimayn Shrine, also known as the Al-Kazimiyya Mosque, is a significant Twelver Shi'ite mosque and shrine located in the Kadhimiya district of Baghdad, Iraq. It houses the tombs of the seventh and ninth Imams, Musa al-Kadhim and his grandson Muhammad al-Jawad, making it a vital pilgrimage site for Shi'ite Muslims. The mosque complex also contains the graves of prominent Islamic scholars such as Shaykh Mufīd and Shaykh Naṣīr ad-Dīn aṭ-Ṭūsi. Originally built on a cemetery established in 762 CE by Abbasid Caliph al-Mansur, the site evolved into a major religious center. The current structure was largely restored by Safavid Shah Ismail I in the early 16th century and further ornamented by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. The surrounding area, known as al-Kadhimiyya, grew around the mosque, becoming an important suburb of Baghdad. Despite suffering damage from terrorist attacks in recent decades, the shrine remains a place of deep religious significance and cultural heritage, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The mosque is managed by the al-Jamali family, custodians since a 1611 Ottoman decree, and continues to be maintained and developed with modern facilities for pilgrims.
Plan your trip to Iraq with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan to visit outside peak religious holidays to avoid large crowds, especially during Ashura and Mawlid celebrations. It is advisable to purchase tickets or arrange guided visits through official channels beforehand when possible. The shrine offers spiritual and cultural experiences, and modest dress is required. Visitors can benefit from guided tours to fully appreciate the site's historical and religious significance. Security measures may be in place due to past attacks, so following local guidance is important.
Interesting facts
- •The mosque contains the tombs of two important Twelver Shi'ite Imams: Musa al-Kadhim and Muhammad al-Jawad.
- •The site was originally a Quraysh cemetery established in 762 CE by Abbasid Caliph al-Mansur.
- •Safavid Shah Ismail I restored the mosque in the early 16th century, and Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent further ornamented it after 1534.
- •The al-Jamali family has been the custodians of the mosque since a 1611 Ottoman royal decree.
- •The mosque was a significant gathering place during the 1920 Iraq Revolt against British rule.
- •The shrine has endured multiple terrorist attacks in the 2000s but continues to be a major pilgrimage destination.
History
The site began as a cemetery founded by Abbasid Caliph al-Mansur in 762 CE, intended for his family and close associates.
It became the burial place of Imam Musa al-Kadhim in 799 CE and later his grandson Muhammad al-Jawad in 834 CE.
The mosque underwent significant restoration under Safavid Shah Ismail I between 1502 and 1524 and received further enhancements by Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent after 1534.
In 1611, Ottoman Sultan Ahmed I granted custodianship of the mosque to the al-Jamali family, who have maintained it since.
The mosque has been a focal point of religious and political gatherings, including during the 1920 Iraq Revolt.
Despite suffering multiple terrorist attacks in the 21st century, the shrine remains a key religious landmark.
Place Guide
Main Shrine and Tombs8th-9th century (burial dates), 16th century (restoration)
This area houses the tombs of Imam Musa al-Kadhim and Imam Muhammad al-Jawad, revered figures in Twelver Shi'ism. The shrine is richly decorated and serves as the spiritual heart of the mosque complex.
Adjacent Smaller Shrines
Near the main mosque are smaller shrines dedicated to Sayyid Raḍī and Sayyid Murtadā, brothers known for their religious scholarship, and Qadi Abu Yusuf al-Ansari, a prominent Islamic jurist.
Historic Cemetery Site8th century
The mosque stands on a historic cemetery originally established by Caliph al-Mansur, which included graves of Abbasid family members and notable figures like Zubaidah bint Ja'far.
Contact
Phone: 032 109 589