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Al-Sahla Great Mosque: Awaiting the Imam

Discover Al-Sahla Great Mosque in Najaf, a historic and spiritually significant site awaiting the return of Imam al-Mahdi.

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Al-Sahla Great Mosque, located near Kufa in Najaf, Iraq, is a significant mosque for Shia Muslims, believed to be one of the oldest Islamic mosques, dating back to the 7th century. It is revered as the future home of the twelfth Imam, Hujjat-Allah al-Mahdi, and a place of prayer for prophets.

A brief summary to Al-Sahla Great Mosque

  • مسجد السهلة النجف الاشرف, 00964،, Najaf Governorate, IQ
  • +9647707475747
  • Monday 7:45 am-11:45 pm
  • Tuesday 7:45 am-11:45 pm
  • Wednesday 7:45 am-11:45 pm
  • Thursday 7:45 am-11:45 pm
  • Friday 7:45 am-11:45 pm
  • Saturday 7:45 am-11:45 pm
  • Sunday 7:45 am-11:45 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting, as it is a religious site. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered.
  • Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to help with communication.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid the intense summer heat.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Najaf and are a convenient way to reach Al-Sahla Great Mosque. From the city center, a taxi ride to the mosque typically takes 15-20 minutes. The estimated cost for a one-way trip is between $22 and $27. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    Public buses operate in Najaf and can take you closer to the mosque. However, they may not drop you directly at the entrance, and you might need to walk a bit. Bus fares are very economical, usually costing less than $1. Confirm the bus route and timings with locals, as they can vary.

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Discover more about Al-Sahla Great Mosque

Al-Sahla Great Mosque, situated approximately 10 km northwest of Najaf in Iraq, stands as a testament to centuries of Islamic history and faith. Established in the 7th century, the mosque is one of the most historically important in the region. Its significance is deeply rooted in Shia Islamic tradition, with beliefs that it will be the future residence of the twelfth Imam, Hujjat-Allah al-Mahdi, upon his return. The mosque's design is characterized by its rectangular shape, stretching 140 meters in length and 125 meters in width, covering an area of 17,500 square meters. A 22-meter-tall wall, reinforced with semicircular towers, surrounds the perimeter. A 30-meter minaret rises from the middle of the eastern side, adjacent to the main gate. Inside the courtyard are several mihrabs, each dedicated to revered religious figures such as Imam al-Sajjad, Imam al-Sadiq, Prophet Ibrahim, Prophet Idris and Prophet Khidr. These spaces provide pilgrims with areas for personal reflection and prayer. Al-Sahla Mosque is more than just a place of worship; it is a repository of faith and tradition. It is believed that prophets like Ibrahim, Idris and Khidr once resided here, and that all prophets have prayed within its walls. The mosque is also associated with several miracles and is considered a sanctuary for those seeking solace. Many Shia Muslims visit the mosque to offer prayers, seeking blessings and a closer connection to Imam al-Mahdi. It's believed that performing two Rakats of prayer here grants safety and protection for an entire year.

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