TEHRAN - Specialized museums dedicated to the intangible heritage of Muharram rituals are set to be established in Kashan, central Iran, according to an official in charge of museums.

Visiting private museums and traditional mourning ceremonies in the city, Hadi Mirzaei emphasized the importance of safeguarding the region’s intangible heritage, particularly the Muharram mourning rituals associated with Imam Hussain (AS).

Mirzaei praised the efforts made by the cultural heritage sector in Kashan to maintain strong connections with local communities and religious groups. These collaborations have been crucial in preserving the intangible cultural heritage of the region, he added.

“In meetings with private museum curators, intangible heritage activists, and heads of cultural heritage departments from neighboring counties, several important resolutions were passed,” said the official, expressing hope that these efforts would lead to the registration of more intangible heritage items and the establishment of specialized museums.

These museums, he underscored, will play a key role in preserving and promoting the fervent religious ceremonies and traditions of the area.

Mirzaei highlighted the significant potential in Kashan for developing such specialized museums. In his final words, the official called for cooperation among religious groups and intangible cultural heritage activists to realize this initiative, ensuring the preservation of the rich cultural and religious heritage of Muharram in the region.

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, holds profound significance for Shia Muslims around the world, especially in Iran, where it is observed with intense religious fervor. The month marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his loyal companions, in the tragic Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This event is a pivotal moment in Shia history and is commemorated through various rituals and ceremonies, which differ slightly across regions but share common themes of mourning and remembrance.

XF/AM