A group of students from Italy, Russia, Germany, the United States and Iraq paid a visit to the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS), enjoying programs arranged by Astan Quds Razavi Non-Iranian Pilgrims’ Office in Dar al-Marhamah portico.

Studying Islamology, Persian language and literature, Islamic history and oriental studies at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, the students watched a TV clip of the holy shrine and visited the Central Museum of the holy shrine.

A member of the group, Lorenzo from the University of Venice, Italy, expressed satisfaction for presence in the holy shrine, saying: “The spiritual atmosphere and the beautiful architecture of this sacred place dazzle the eyes of every visitor. Like all foreign visitors, I am impressed by the ambience.”

Pointing to the characteristics of religious sites in Italy, Vatican Museum in particular, he compared its type of architecture with that of Imam Reza (AS) holy shrine, saying “Vatican Museum is one of the main tourist attractions in Vatican City. The museum boasts unique art and historical artifacts linked to Christianity and Catholicism, welcoming a large number of domestic and foreign visitors annually.”

Touching on the philosophy behind mirror works at the holy shrine, he cited it a distinctive manifestation of Iranian-Islamic art, meaning that human beings, like small pieces of mirrors, are parts of a whole which must shatter the ego into one single principle that is God the Almighty.

“Traveling to religious places and visiting exquisite and precious objects has always been a great experience for me. On this trip, I gained valuable experiences and I hope to be able to visit this place for a few more times,” Lorenzo remarked.

Source: Abna24