Imam Reza holy shrine
The holy shrine of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam in Islam, is geographically located in a city called Mashhad in Khorasan Razavi Province. The city is considered as the holiest place of Iran because of the holy shrine. Imam Reza Holy Shrine is the largest shrine of the world considering its area. This complex includes many other constructions and popular monuments which are tourist attractions too such as Goharshad Mosque, museum, library, seminaries, cemetery, university of Islamic Science, prayer halls and dining halls. The holy shrine of Imam Reza is surrounded by seven courtyards and this adds to the magnificence of the shrine. Dust Clearing is a famous ceremony hold in the shrine, visiting the shrine at this time makes you enjoy its spiritual atmosphere. The fundamental construction of the holy shrine dates back to 9th century
The complex contains a total of Seven courtyards, which cover an area of over 331,578 m2(3,569,080 sq ft):The courtyards also contain a total of 14 minarets,and 3 fountains.
Museum of Astan Quds Razavi
The museums of the Astan Quds Razavi are among the richest museums of Islamic Republic of Iran, and are included among the most important art and cultural centers of the Islamic world.
Astan Quds Razavi Central Museum was inaugurated in the year 1945. The collection of this mausoleum is relative to the Islamic period. The Central Museum was inaugurated in 1964. The present building of the museum was constructed in 1977 in the eastern flank of Imam Khomeini (R.A.) courtyard. In this museum precious and exquisite objects present in the treasury of the holy shrine like the old covers of the Zarih around the sacred grave, paintings, utensils made of chinaware and steel, golden inscriptions, carpets different types of old lighting instruments, a single piece of carved stone called “Sangab” dating back to the Timurid era, medals and coins are exhibited for the visitors. The central museum possesses very old, exquisite and precious Islamic treasures and in this regard it is considered as one of the richest museums and the most important center of the Islamic art in the world.
Other sections are as follows: Qur’anic Treasure Museum, the Museum of the Gifts Presented by the Paramount Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Astan Quds Razavi, stamp and Bank-note Museum, the Museum of the History of Mashhad, the Museum of the Finest Carpets.
Specialized Library.
Ferdowsi’s Tomb
Ferdowsi is one of the most famous Iranian poets and the writer of the well-known Shahnameh. His tomb is located in a beautiful garden 20 kilometers north of Mashhad in the ancient city of Tous. The tomb’s architecture is inspired from the Achaemenid times. There is a museum and a library near the Tomb which have been built to educate visitors on the Ferdowsi and his works. As one of the most popular places to visit in Mashhad, this great poet’s tomb attracts over a million visitors every year.
Torghabeh Village
If you ride 18 kilometers southwest of Mashhad, you will come across Torghabeh, a beautiful town with a beautiful Yaylaki weather. Longe rivers, tall trees, and large fruit gardens all make Torghabeh the perfect getaway from the bustling life of city.
When you’re packing for Torghabeh, remember that you will be staying for quite a few hours because the town has multiple attractions of its own. These attractions include the Chalidareh dam, Golestan dam, Arghavan Valley, Daghestan Valley, and the Dehbar river which is considered the beating heart of Torghabeh. If you have time, visit the green Noghondor village just 10 kilometers away.
Torghabeh is one of the best places to visit in Mashhad for summer and spring when the weather is warm. But during cold seasons Torghabeh becomes one of the coldest parts of Khorasan, so watch out.
Chalidareh Dam
Don’t forget to visit the Chalidareh Dam when you are in Torghabeh. You can go fishing or rowing inside the water. There are also multiple restaurants scattered around where you can have a variety of dishes. If you enjoy having picnics in gazebos and near water, then Chalidareh is one of the must-see places to visit in Mashhad for you.
