Mashhad al-Hussein

Al-Hussein Mashhad (Shrine)
The Al-Hussein Mashhad in Aleppo is one of the city’s most prominent religious and historical landmarks. It is believed to have been built on the site where the caravan carrying the head of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) stopped during its transfer to Cairo. The construction of the Mashhad dates back to the 7th century AH / 13th century CE, during the Mamluk era, commemorating the passage of Imam Hussein’s head through this location.
The Mashhad is situated in the Al-Mashhad neighborhood, southeast of Aleppo’s Old City, an area historically associated with the Shia community.
Components of the Mashhad:
The Dome: Featuring a distinctive polygonal design covered in gold leaf, it shimmers at dusk and is considered one of the Mashhad’s most striking features.
The Inner Arcade: Adorned with green stained glass that casts unique light reflections.
The Mihrab: Crafted from red onyx and intricately decorated with white Thuluth script, it bears the inscription: Peace be upon you, O Aba Abdallah.
In 2023, a restoration campaign was launched as part of the Mashhadi Peace project. This initiative included the installation of a hidden ventilation system to remove humidity and protect the rare stained glass, thus preserving the Mashhad’s splendor and significance.
The Al-Hussein Mashhad remains a significant religious landmark worthy of visit and documentation, standing as a testament to Aleppo’s rich history and ancient heritage.