Buratha Mosque: A Baghdad Sanctuary

The Buratha Mosque stands as a testament to Baghdad's layered history and religious significance. Tradition holds that the mosque was initially a Nestorian Christian monastery dating back to the 7th century. According to local accounts, the Christian monk Hebar converted the monastery into a mosque after encountering Ali ibn Abi Talib. This conversion marks the site as a point of intersection between Christianity and Islam, revered by both faiths. Throughout its history, the Buratha Mosque has faced periods of destruction and renewal. In the 10th century, the Abbasid Caliph Al-Radi ordered its demolition as part of a broader attack on Shi'ite communities. However, the mosque was rebuilt following complaints from locals, with Al-Radi's name inscribed to prevent future destruction. Renovations occurred in 1659 and 1933, followed by a complete reconstruction in 1955 that introduced the two minarets seen today. The mosque's significance to Shia Muslims is tied to Ali ibn Abi Talib, who is said to have rested there after battling the Khawarij. A spring is believed to have miraculously appeared when Ali struck a stone in the mosque floor. Some also believe a rock within the mosque is connected to the Virgin Mary, and that Patriarch Abraham prayed at the site. Today, the Buratha Mosque welcomes thousands of pilgrims and visitors daily. It is open from early morning until dusk, offering guided tours that delve into its history and importance within Islam. Visitors can explore the prayer halls and courtyards, experiencing the spiritual atmosphere.