Al-Kadhimiya Shrine

About this place

Al-Kadhimiya Shrine is a large Shia mosque and shrine in the Kadhimiya district north of central Baghdad, holding the tombs of Imam Musa al-Kadhim and his grandson Imam Muhammad al-Jawad. It is among the main places of pilgrimage in Iraq, known for its twin golden domes and tall minarets. Pilgrims come all year, so the place stays alive with prayer and movement. It grew from the Quraysh cemetery founded with the Round City of Baghdad in 762, where the two imams were buried, and a town grew up around it that became the Kadhimiya district. The shrine has been rebuilt many times over the centuries. Two famous scholars, Shaykh Mufid and Nasir al-Din al-Tusi, are also buried here, and there are smaller shrines nearby. You approach through gates decorated with blue tiles, then see the broad courtyard, the golden domes and four minarets that glow in the evening. Inside are mirrorwork and fine decoration. This is a place of worship first of all, so keep quiet, and expect a security check at the entrance, where you may be asked to leave bags and phones. It is about 6 km in a straight line from Al-Mutanabbi Street, and visitors usually arrive by taxi. Dress modestly, and women must wear an abaya. Rules for non-Muslim visitors may vary, so ask at the gate. Avoid the main pilgrimage seasons unless you are a pilgrim. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all but essential travel to this area, so check official guidance before planning.