Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
22
Iran Aseman
C2
SHRINE COMPLEX
Haram-e Razavi
Imam Reza's Holy Shrine is enveloped in a series of sacred precincts collectively known
as the
Haram-e Razavi
( 24hr)
, or Haram for short. This magical city-within-a-city
sprouts dazzling clusters of domes and minarets in blue and pure gold behind vast
fountain-cooled courtyards and magnificent arched arcades. It's one of the marvels of the
Islamic world, and its moods and glories should be fully savoured more than once at vary-
ing times of day. Compare the orderly overload of dusk prayer-time to the fairy-tale calm
of a floodlit nocturnal wander.
No bags or cameras are allowed within the complex, although curiously enough snap-
ping photos with mobile phones is perfectly acceptable. There are left-luggage offices
near most entrances. Men and women enter through different carpet-draped portals and
are politely frisked. Women must wear a chador: it's sometimes possible to borrow one
from your hotel. Dress for either sex should be conservative and clean.
RELIGIOUS, SHRINE
