The Mausoleum of Ruhollah Khomeini is a major religious and political memorial on the southern edge of Tehran, beside the vast Behesht-e Zahra cemetery. It contains the tomb of Ruhollah Khomeini, founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, who died in 1989.
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History and Significance
Behesht-e Zahra is closely connected with modern Iranian history. People killed during the 1978-79 revolutionary period and many who died during the Iran-Iraq War are buried in the cemetery. Khomeini addressed crowds there after returning to Iran in February 1979.
Construction of the mausoleum complex began after Khomeini’s death in June 1989. The site subsequently developed into a large shrine and memorial complex used for religious visits, official ceremonies and annual commemorations.
Architecture and the Shrine
The complex is monumental in scale, with a large central dome, minarets and expansive interior spaces designed to accommodate substantial numbers of visitors. The shrine contains Khomeini’s tomb as well as the graves of several members of his family and other prominent political figures.
Visiting the Mausoleum
The mausoleum is south of central Tehran and next to Behesht-e Zahra. It remains an active religious and commemorative site rather than simply a museum. Visitors should dress respectfully, follow on-site instructions and be aware that access arrangements can change during major ceremonies, religious occasions or security restrictions.
Because operating conditions can change, verify current access before making a special journey. For wider context on the capital, see the Tehran travel guide.
