The “Golden Iwan,” regarded as an artistic and historical masterpiece of the Shrine, serves as the principal entrance to its illuminated sanctuary. Now, after many years of anticipation and with the completion of restoration operations, this precious architectural work has regained its splendor and will once again illuminate the hearts and sights of visitors who long for the sacred presence of Amir al-Muminin (peace be upon him).
Following the fall of the former regime in Iraq, the Imam Ali Holy Shrine began restoring damaged sections of the Golden Iwan and reinstalling separated inscriptions in the year 1423 AH. Later, based on the directive of the Supreme Religious Authority in Najaf and under the leadership of the Custodian of the Imam Ali Holy Shrine, Sayed Isa al-Khirsan, comprehensive restoration works were initiated in 1440 AH to preserve the original identity and historic character of the Iwan.
Throughout this project, and with the joint efforts of expert craftsmen from Iraq and Iran, the remaining historical tiles dating back nearly three centuries to the era of Nader Shah Afshar were restored and returned to their original placement. The restoration of the Golden Iwan was executed in two stages, with the cooperation of the Committee for the Development and Reconstruction of Holy Shrines in Iraq.
During this process, gold-plated tiles were restored and reinstalled while maintaining their historic authenticity. Much of the restoration work was conducted in specialized workshops established within the courtyard of the Shrine, and the reconstruction was organized into three planned phases.
Due to the sensitivity of the project, the unique conditions of the holy city of Najaf, the historical age of the structural pieces, and the damage accumulated over time, the utmost effort was made to preserve the original historic components and to replace them only when necessary. This precision and care contributed to the extended duration of the restoration period.
Today, through the efforts of the Imam Ali Holy Shrine and the sincere, unseen dedication of its servants, the restoration of the Najaf Golden Iwan has reached its final stages. Its formal unveiling is scheduled to take place on the twentieth of the month of Rajab of the current year, after which it will proudly welcome visitors and devotees of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them).
