Ali Ibn Hamzeh Holly Shrine

Nearby, down from the 18th-century bridge, is situated the Ali Ibn Hamzeh Holly Shrine, constructed perhaps in pre-Seljuk times to honour a relative of the fourth Imam. Its two minarets, exterior dome, entrance vestibule and courtyard rooms, however, date from the late 18th and 19th centuries. If, as is likely these days, a visit to Shah-e Cheragh shrine  is not possible during your stay, this shrine possesses similar extensive Qajar mirror work on its interior walls and vaults.

This shrine is small, but is beautiful from the courtyard garden with its fountain to the shrine itself. The interior of the shrine is striking, with mirror tiles covering the entire wall and domed ceiling. Female visitors need to don a hooded cloak which is provided and men and women are supposed to enter separate sections of the shrine. However, for foreign visitors, an exception is usually made.

There is one entrance into the shrine sanctuary (women are asked to don a chador) and as the qibla wall is immediately to the right of entry, one should move quickly to one or other side to minimise disruption to anyone praying.