Background

Shrine of Hazrat Ali: The Blue Mosque

Discover the spiritual heart of Mazar-i-Sharif at the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, a mesmerizing testament to Islamic history and architectural artistry.

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The Shrine of Hazrat Ali, also known as the Blue Mosque, is located in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, and is believed by many to be the burial place of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Muhammad [2, 4]. The dazzling blue tilework and golden domes make it a mesmerizing and important pilgrimage destination [4].

A brief summary to Shrine of Hazrat Ali

  • P466+5R8، The Great Masoud St, Mazar-i-Sharif, AF
  • Monday 4 am-12:30 am
  • Tuesday 4 am-12:30 am
  • Wednesday 4 am-12:30 am
  • Thursday 4 am-12:30 am
  • Friday 4 am-12:30 am
  • Saturday 4 am-12:30 am
  • Sunday 4 am-12:30 am

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting the shrine. Women should cover their heads.
  • Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the inner shrine, but are welcome to enjoy the surrounding park and admire the architecture.
  • Visit during Nowruz (Persian New Year) for festive celebrations.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Shrine of Hazrat Ali is located in the center of Mazar-i-Sharif, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From major landmarks in the city center, simply head towards the most prominent and visible blue-tiled building. The shrine is surrounded by a park, and entry is free.

  • Public Transport

    Public transport in Mazar-i-Sharif mainly consists of buses and shared taxis. If arriving by bus from another city, you can take a local shared taxi from the bus station to the shrine. The cost for a short trip in a shared taxi should be around 30-50 AFN [5]. Be sure to negotiate the price before setting off [5].

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Mazar-i-Sharif. A taxi ride from the Mazar-i-Sharif International Airport (MZR) to the Shrine of Hazrat Ali, located about 9 km away, takes approximately 15 minutes [5]. As of February 2025, the base fare for a taxi is 100 AFN, with an additional 50 AFN per kilometer [3]. Therefore, a 5 km taxi ride would cost around 250 AFN [3]. A taxi from the airport to the city center may cost 400-500 AFN [11]. Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey [5, 11].

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Discover more about Shrine of Hazrat Ali

The Shrine of Hazrat Ali, dominating the skyline of Mazar-i-Sharif, is more than just a beautiful building; it's a living testament to faith, history, and architectural artistry [4]. Often called the Blue Mosque because of its dazzling tilework, the shrine is believed by many to house the remains of Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth Caliph of Islam and a central figure in Shia Islam [4]. This attribution has made Mazar-i-Sharif a major pilgrimage destination, drawing devotees from across the globe [4]. The story of the shrine's origin is steeped in legend. According to one account, Ali's remains were secretly transported from Najaf (in present-day Iraq) to Mazar-i-Sharif to protect them from desecration by his enemies [4]. The burial site remained hidden for centuries until it was revealed in the 12th century, leading to the construction of a shrine to honor his memory [4, 9]. While the historicity of this account is debated, it underscores the deep reverence associated with the site [4]. The architectural evolution of the Shrine of Hazrat Ali is a fascinating journey through different eras and empires [4]. The first structure, a simple tomb, was erected in the 8th century [4]. Over the centuries, the shrine was expanded and embellished by various rulers, each leaving their unique mark on its design [4]. The current structure largely dates back to the Safavid dynasty of the 17th century, with significant contributions from Shah Abbas the Great, who commissioned a major reconstruction project that transformed the shrine into the magnificent complex we see today [4]. The architecture showcases a blend of Persian and Islamic styles, characterized by its intricate tilework, towering minarets, and a majestic central dome [4]. The exterior is adorned with vibrant blue, turquoise, and green tiles arranged in geometric patterns and floral motifs [4]. These tiles create a shimmering effect that is particularly striking under the Afghan sun [4]. The main dome, covered in gold-coated copper plates, dominates the skyline and serves as a beacon [4]. Two towering minarets flank the dome, adding to the shrine's grandeur [4]. Inside, the shrine is equally impressive [4]. The walls are adorned with calligraphy featuring verses from the Quran and poems in praise of Ali [4]. The atmosphere is one of profound reverence, with pilgrims offering prayers and paying their respects at the tomb [4]. The courtyard surrounding the shrine provides a tranquil space for reflection, featuring manicured gardens, fountains, and arcades, offering respite from the bustling city outside [4]. The shrine complex also includes a mosque, madrasas (religious schools), and a library, reflecting its importance as a center of learning and religious activity [4].

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