Ezekiel's Tomb, Muthanna Travel Guide

Ezekiel's Tomb, also known as the Shrine of Prophet Dhul-Kifl, is located in the town of Al Kifl in the Babylon Governorate of Iraq. This ancient site is significant to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as it is believed to be the burial place of the prophet Ezekiel. Known as Dhu'l-Kifl in Islamic tradition, Ezekiel is a figure of reverence across these faiths, embodying their shared Abrahamic roots.The current structure of the tomb dates back to the 500s CE, a time when diverse religious communities, including Jewish, Christian, Zoroastrian, and Manichean, coexisted in the region. In the 1300s, under the Mongol Ilkhanate, a mosque was constructed around the site, reflecting a policy of supporting shrines throughout the empire. The tomb is now part of the Al-Nukhailah Mosque complex. Inside the complex, Hebrew inscriptions adorn the walls beneath a dome featuring medieval Islamic floral designs, illustrating the intertwined history of the site. The cenotaph is covered in Arabic calligraphy.Historically, Ezekiel's Tomb was a major pilgrimage destination for Iraqi Jews, with thousands visiting during Passover until the mid-20th century. The tomb was also an important stop for Jewish and Muslim travelers throughout the Middle Ages. After 2003, the complex was redeveloped, and the old synagogue was converted into a Muslim prayer area. Today, visitors of all faiths are welcome.