Jamkaran Mosque: A Spiritual Gateway Near Qom
Where Spiritual Longing Meets the Presence of the Awaited Imam — A Journey to One of Iran’s Most Sacred and Mysterious Mosques
Just outside the sacred city of Qom, nestled in the village of Jamkaran, stands one of the most spiritually significant mosques in Shia Islam. Known not just for its beautiful architecture but for its deep connection to Imam al-Mahdi (may Allah hasten his reappearance), Jamkaran Mosque is a place where faith, history, and hope intertwine.
A Mosque Built on Divine Instruction
According to historical narrations, the mosque was established in the year 984 CE, when a devout man named Sheikh Hassan ibn Muthlih Jamkarani had a visionary encounter with Imam al-Mahdi (A). In this sacred dream, the Imam instructed him to build a mosque at that very location. The vision was not only clear—it came with the purpose of calling believers to prayer, especially on Tuesday nights, which have since become a special time of gathering and supplication.
Today, the tradition continues, and every Tuesday night, thousands of visitors from across Iran and around the world gather here. They write heartfelt letters to the Imam, expressing their hopes, worries, and prayers, and place them in a well near the mosque believed to be dedicated to him.
A Masterpiece of Faith and Architecture
Jamkaran Mosque is a stunning blend of Persian-Islamic architecture and spiritual symbolism. Its turquoise-blue dome shines against the sky, flanked by slender minarets that rise like supplications into the heavens. The façade is adorned with intricate tile work, geometric patterns, and Qur'anic calligraphy—all of which reflect the unity, beauty, and divine majesty that the mosque seeks to inspire.
Inside, the atmosphere is serene and spacious. Light pours in from ornate chandeliers, and the walls are covered in glazed mosaics and delicate stucco, offering a sense of divine harmony. The marble floors are cool underfoot, and the air is filled with quiet recitation, whispered duas, and reverent hearts.
Whether visiting in the calm of a weekday or the vibrancy of a Tuesday night, the spiritual aura of Jamkaran is palpable.
A Sacred Ritual: Writing to the Imam (A)
One of the most unique practices at Jamkaran is the writing of letters to Imam Mahdi (A). Visitors pour their hearts onto paper, writing about personal hardships, desires for guidance, or simply pledging their loyalty. These letters are folded, prayed over, and dropped into a designated well at the mosque—an act not of superstition, but of intimate communication with the awaited saviour.
For many, this simple gesture becomes a moment of emotional release, spiritual renewal, and a connection to the unseen.
The Museum of Religion and Culture
Adjacent to the mosque is a lesser-known treasure: the Museum of Religion and the World of the Holy Mosque of Jamkaran. This beautifully curated space explores the themes of worship, knowledge, coexistence, defense, and culture in Islamic civilization. Divided into ten thematic sections, the museum provides deep insight into how faith touches every aspect of life.
It’s a valuable stop for those who want to explore beyond the walls of the mosque and engage intellectually with the values that shape Islamic society.
What to Know Before You Visit
Jamkaran Mosque is open 24 hours a day, but some days are especially busy—such as Tuesdays and Islamic holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience for personal worship or photography, visiting midweek is ideal.
Modest dress is essential. For men, long trousers and sleeves are required. For women, a headscarf and a loose overgarment like a chador are needed—these are usually available at the entrance if you don’t have one.
Photography is generally allowed, but visitors should be mindful not to interrupt people in prayer. Flash is discouraged. Inside the prayer halls, shoes must be removed, and respectful silence is expected.
The mosque is wheelchair accessible, and there are clean wudhu and restroom facilities for visitors. Some guides and volunteers on-site may speak English, especially on busy days.
Why Jamkaran Matters
Jamkaran is more than just a beautiful mosque—it is a living testament to the Shia belief in the ongoing presence and return of Imam al-Mahdi (A). It represents hope in times of difficulty, a call to spiritual readiness, and a reminder that the Imam watches over the ummah even in occultation.
For those who visit, Jamkaran becomes a place where the distance between the seen and unseen feels thinner. Whether you are writing a letter, performing prayers, or simply sitting in silence beneath the mosque’s blue dome, the experience lingers long after you leave.
ShiaJourneys is working to make trips like this more accessible—connecting you to spiritually enriching destinations like Jamkaran through curated group tours, guides, and meaningful experiences. If visiting this sacred site has long been on your heart, now might be the time to take that step.
Let your journey begin—not just with travel, but with intention.