imam Khomeini Mausoleum Monument

Address: Imam Khomeini Mausoleum (Behesht-e Zahra complex), south Tehran, Tehran Province, Iran

Hours: Daily

Admission: Free

The Imam Khomeini Mausoleum is a large commemorative complex in the southern Tehran area, built to house the tomb of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini following his death in 1989. It serves as a major pilgrimage and ceremonial site in Iran.

The complex comprises the central mausoleum building beneath a prominent dome, flanking minarets, large courtyards and several covered prayer halls, together with a museum and library. It is designed to receive large numbers of visitors and official delegations.

Construction and expansion of the complex began after 1989 and continued through the 1990s and later, creating the current multi-structure precinct used for religious observances, commemorations and official events.

Geographically the mausoleum lies in the Rey district on the southern edge of Tehran and is reachable by road from the city; it is one of the largest modern shrine complexes in Iran.

• Construction timeline: Construction began after Ayatollah Khomeini’s death in 1989 and the complex took shape through the 1990s; it functions as a major pilgrimage site.
• Location and access: The site is located in the southern Tehran/ Ray area and is accessible by road and public transport from Tehran for visitors and pilgrims.

What to See#

• Mausoleum tomb and dome: The main mausoleum houses the tomb of Ruhollah Khomeini under a large domed structure with flanking minarets and a central courtyard used by visitors and pilgrims.
• Museum and prayer halls: The complex includes a museum, library and several prayer halls and portals that receive large numbers of visitors on national commemorative dates.

The Imam Khomeini Mausoleum complex lies in southern Tehran province and is commonly accessed by car or taxi from Tehran or from Imam Khomeini International Airport (many visitors arrive via the airport and take a short taxi ride). The site is served by regional bus and shuttle services from Tehran and the airport; driving times vary with traffic (often under an hour from Tehran city centre, and a short drive from the airport).

• Plan visits on weekday mornings and avoid Fridays and major Shi'a holidays when the mausoleum and surrounding complex are busiest with worshippers.
• Allow extra time for security screening and follow signage about restricted areas-certain parts of the complex, interior shrines, and displays prohibit photography or have controlled access.
• Dress conservatively and follow local etiquette inside the complex; English signage is limited, so be prepared for minimal tourist facilities and to follow staff instructions.