TEHRAN – The number of international travelers observing religious rituals in Yazd during the first ten days of Muharram has doubled, according to a local official.

“Since the beginning of the Muharram, more than 400 foreign tourists attended mourning ceremonies across Yazd,” Seyyed-Hasan Hosseini told IRNA on Wednesday, highlighting that the number demonstrates twofold rise compared to the corresponding period of a year earlier.

The official further elaborated that the tourists hailing from different nations such as Türkiye, Philippines, China, Germany, Netherlands, Poland and Spain, attended the Tasoua and Ashura ceremonies, participating in the preparation and distribution of Nazri (religious food offerings), getting to know the nationally registered mourning rituals and intangible heritage.

Large number of the attendees, Hosseini brought to light, were from Sunni Turkish community, accounting for 80% of the overseas tourists.

Arranging specially organized tours for international tourists, was a result of synergy between local active members of religious and spiritual tourism sectors, according to the official.

“Ardakan, Ashkezar, Taft, and Mehriz counties, played hostess to the religious tourists, attending Nakhl Gardani historical ritual,” he noted.
Earlier this month, provincial officials revealed that Yazd is set to welcome international tourists to its renowned Muharram mourning ceremonies through specially organized tours.
This initiative began in Yazd more than ten years ago and has been well-received by foreign tourists over the years.

Every Muharram, hundreds of foreign nationals flock to Iran to experience its profound mourning traditions firsthand despite the language barrier.

Throughout the first ten days of the lunar month, numerous mourning rituals pay tribute to Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions, martyred in the tragic Battle of Karbala in 680 CE.

Commemorated with exceptional grandeur, these rituals hold a revered place in the hearts of the Iranian people. Each unique ritual conveys profound messages of sacrifice, justice, and devotion.
The zenith of Muharram observances is Ashura, the tenth day of the lunar month, marked by large gatherings at mosques and religious centers.
XF/AM