Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan
Coordinates: 36.708300, 67.111100
The Blue Mosque, also known as the shrine of Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه, is a mosque located in the center of Mazar-i-Sharif in the northern Balkh Province of Afghanistan.
According to a local legend, Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه has been buried at the site at the Shrine of Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه.
Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه was reportedly was brought here by a white camel in order to save his remains from the desecration by his enemies.
However, most Muslims consider that Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه is buried in Imam Ali Mosque, Najaf in Iraq.
Alternatively, the personage buried in the shrine may have predated Islam. Identifying the shrine with Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه could likely be a myth to ensure the tomb would be protected and honored by the Islamic establishment.
The site is also where many pilgrims annually celebrate Nowruz (Persian New Year). At the annual Jahenda Bala ceremony, a holy flag is raised in honour of Hz. Ali رضي الله عنه. People touch the flag for luck in the New Year.
The Sultan of the Seljuq dynasty, Ahmed Sanjar, built the first known shrine at this location.
It was destroyed or hidden under earthen embankment during the invasion of Genghis Khan around 1220.
In the 15th century, Timurid Sultan Husayn Bayqarah Mirza built the current Blue Mosque here. It is by far the most important landmark in Mazar-i-Sharif and it is believed that the name of city (Noble Shrine, Grave of Hz.-i-Ali Sharif) originates from this shrine.
Know This
Very easy to get to. You must go through security to enter the site. There are 4 entrances to the site. The Mosque itself is a beautiful and intricately decorated structure. No entry to the inside of the Mosque was permitted at the time. It’s an absolute must place to visit when in Mazar-i-Sharif
When you get in you need to take off your shoes and the lady need to cover your hair and dress modest.
The city is fairly “safe” when put in perspective to Kabul and the entire east and south of the country. However, use common sense and do not make a spectacle of yourself if western – which should go without saying to any westerner who find themselves in Mazar.
