The sacred shrine of Hazrat Abdul Azim (AS), like other major and historically renowned pilgrimage centers, originally consisted only of the main sanctum—the core sacred chamber. Over the centuries, various structures and attached buildings were gradually added around it, forming the large present-day complex consisting of sanctuaries, porticos (riwāqs), mosques, iwāns, courtyards, and related architectural elements. The shrines of Imamzadeh Hamzeh (AS) and Imamzadeh Taher (AS) are also situated within this same complex.
The earliest principal structure of this holy site—namely, its sanctum—underwent major renovation in the mid–3rd century AH by Muhammad ibn Zayd al-Dā‘ī al-‘Alawī. Its main northern entrance was later completed and decorated, first under the rule of the Buyid kings and subsequently through the efforts of Majd al-Mulk al-Qummi.
The lower section of the sanctum is quadrangular, each side measuring roughly eight meters. As in all Seljuk-era constructions, four pendentives (squinches) were built atop the four corners, transitioning the square base into an octagonal upper section. Above the octagon, smaller vaulting elements transformed the structure into a sixteen-sided form, suitable for supporting the dome.
(Today, the interior of the sanctum is adorned with intricate mirrorwork.)
The golden dome originally consisted of a circular inner vault topped by a tall conical or pyramidal dome. This form was later modified during the reign of Shah Tahmasp I of the Safavid dynasty.
There is no clear information regarding the structural alterations or expansions made between the Seljuk period (5th century AH) and the era of Shah Tahmasp I (930–984 AH).
Safavid and Qajar Additions
In Muharram 944 AH, Shah Tahmasp I ordered the construction of the great iwan of Hazrat Abdul Azim (AS). In later Safavid periods, the main courtyard, the northern mosque, the Riwāq (upper sanctuary), and the women’s mosque were also built to the north, west, and east of the sanctum.
During the reign of Fath-Ali Shah Qajar (1211–1250 AH), the first silver zarih (funeral enclosure) of Hazrat Abdul Azim (AS) was constructed. A portion of its inscription still survives and is installed on the current zarih, crafted between 1958–1961 by Ustad Gholamhossein Eqlima and Haj Mohammad Sani‘ Khatam.
Between 1299–1320 AH (late Qajar era), significant decorative works were carried out, including:
- Tilework and mirrorwork
- Painted and carved wooden doors
- Khatamkari (inlaid wood) decoration
- Repair of the zarih
- Construction of tall minarets
- Tile cladding of the main courtyard and surrounding areas
- Covering the dome with gilded copper tiles
- Construction of the two tall minarets in 1270 AH
The oldest surviving architectural element in the present complex is the Seljuk-era brick entrance built by Majd al-Mulk al-Qummi around 495–498 AH. Its characteristics suggest that the shrine itself predates the 5th century AH—possibly originating in the 4th century AH.
This ancient northern entrance has always served as the main gateway, as it does today.
Another important historic feature is the 945 AH portal, once located on the southwestern side of the courtyard of Imamzadeh Hamzeh (AS). Its mosaic tile inscription—written in white script on a cobalt background with turquoise borders and floral motifs—is executed in elegant Thuluth script.
Additional constructions during the Qajar period included:
- A new bazaar
- A new courtyard and its surrounding rooms and iwans
- The grand mirrored iwan
- Flanking cloakroom structures
- The Amin al-Sultan School (northeast of the courtyard)
- Jeyran Garden (west of the shrine)
- Tooti Garden (west of the large courtyard)
- The shrine and great dome of Imamzadeh Taher (AS)
The shrine of Imamzadeh Hamzeh (AS)—similar in size and mirrorwork to that of Hazrat Abdul Azim (AS)—dates to the mid-Qajar era. It features a large eastern iwan and an upper mosque and stands southwest of the main shrine. The original foundation of this structure may date back to the time of Shah Tahmasp I.
Much of the main courtyard and the overall configuration of the complex belong to the era of Atābak under Naser al-Din Shah Qajar.
The building of Imamzadeh Taher (AS) was constructed during the reigns of Naser al-Din Shah and Mozaffar al-Din Shah (1320 AH), under the order of Zill al-Sultan and by the efforts of Reza Qoli Khan Seraj al-Molk.
Pahlavi Period and Early Islamic Revolution
During the Pahlavi era, no major architectural changes were made; only new ring roads were constructed to ease pilgrim access.
After the Islamic Revolution, due to the critical conditions of the early years, major restoration of the shrines was not yet feasible. Some opportunistic individuals attempted to create new graves irregularly.
Key actions during this period included:
- Demolition of Reza Shah’s mausoleum
- Construction of a seminary on its site
- Building the eastern iwan of Imamzadeh Taher (AS)
- Expanding the western and southern prayer halls of Imamzadeh Hamzeh (AS)
Overall, numerous abandoned graves and unsuitable surrounding structures created an unpleasant appearance. Visitors also suffered from a lack of adequate facilities despite the shrine’s national and international importance. A comprehensive redevelopment became essential.
ENGINEERING & INFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEMS
Cooling and Heating Systems
The HVAC systems for the major expansion were primarily designed using air-handling units, with fan-coil units (ceiling and floor types) used in certain academic and administrative buildings.
Air-handling units were chosen due to:
- The large and tall interior spaces
- The high number of visitors
Each AHU contains standard cooling coils (powered by chillers) and an air-washer chamber (similar to an evaporative cooler but with higher efficiency).
Total airflow provided by the AHUs and fan coils equals approximately one million cubic feet per minute, with 65 AHUs and 350 fan-coil units installed.
A central mechanical room—serving over 120,000 m² of new and existing buildings—was built on a 1,500 m² site and includes:
- Four 25,000-lb steam boilers (125 PSI)
- Three LG absorption chillers (1125 tons total) with nine 500-ton cooling towers
- Six heat exchangers
- Fifty electric motors for the AHU circuits
- Two water softeners
- Automatic booster pumps for chilled, hot, and soft water
- Automatic fire-fighting booster pump
- Two pressure-reducing stations with Spirax Sarco control valves
- Full automatic control valves and sensors (BMS-compatible)
- Automated boiler feed and blowdown system with Spirax controls
- Automated steam and temperature control systems for AHUs
Building Management System (BMS)
Using a BMS is essential—not a luxury—for large, multi-building complexes.
It allows:
- Centralized technical control
- Energy optimization
- Improved safety
- Operational efficiency
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Technical Specifications
- Purchased electrical capacity: 3500 kW at 20 kV
- Installed transformers: 2 × 630, 2 × 800, 2 × 1250 kVA
- Construction of overhead/underground network from 63/20 kV station to the shrine (1046 m, 3×185 cable)
- Construction of four transformer/panel buildings (720 m² total)
Implementation Timeline
- Contract signing: July 1996
- Technical revisions: September 2008
- Start of execution: February 2001
- Activation of permanent electrical supply: October 2002
C) Financial Expenditures of the Project
- Cost of purchasing the electrical connection: 970,000,000 rials
- Cost of constructing the external network and equipping the substation building: 1,028,000,000 rials
- Cost of constructing the internal electrical network of the Shrine complex and equipping the three internal substations: 1,970,000,000 rials
- Cost of constructing the substation building for the commercial arcade (Pāsāzh) and the three internal substations: 1,008,000,000 rials
Total expenditure: 4,976,000,000 Rials
Diesel Backup Generators
Seven emergency diesel generators provide 70% of the shrine’s contracted power.
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING METHODS
Main activities included reviewing consultant drawings, correcting deficiencies, and redesigning when necessary.
Consulting assistance was provided by Hamsazgostar Engineering Group.
Structural Types
- Reinforced concrete frames
Used for all cultural and religious buildings
(medium-ductility moment frames; shear walls were omitted due to incomplete architectural design)
- Upper steel structures
Used in the Great Rey Bazaar
The consultant proposed a moment frame, later improved by hybrid systems.
Flooring Systems
- Reinforced concrete slabs
- Joist-and-block systems
- Arched brick vaulting (Tāq-e Zarbī)
Stair Systems
- Matched the main structural system unless architectural constraints required steel stairs.
Earth Retention
- Reinforced concrete walls
- Brick or reinforced brick retaining walls
Foundation Types
Depending on soil conditions:
- On graves: concrete piles + reinforced concrete slab
- On marshy soil: bearing piles + tie beams
- On firm soil: mostly strip footings; occasionally isolated pads
Design Codes Used
- 519 (gravity load analysis)
- 2800 (seismic load analysis)
- ACI-93 (concrete design)
- AISC (steel design)
Analysis Software
- SAP-90
- SAP-CON (for concrete)
- Manual design (steel)
DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OF THE SHRINE
In 1989, due to increasing visitor numbers, especially after the Islamic Revolution, and a need for more pilgrimage, cultural, and service spaces, a major national-religious expansion plan was launched under the direction of Ayatollah Reyshahri.
The project covered 60,000 m² of land with 120,000 m² of floor area, extending 200 meters around the central shrine.
Approximately 98% of the plan has been completed.
Below are the main components:
1. Faculty of Hadith Sciences (Rey Campus)
A non-governmental higher-education institution with 20,000 m² of floor area, including:
- Specialized Hadith library
- Manuscript library
- Computer center
- Language laboratory
- Astronomy center and observatory (advanced telescope)
- Lecture halls
- Sports facilities
- Dormitory
- Dining hall and cafeteria
2. The Great Rey Prayer Hall (Mosalla)
A monumental 8,000 m² building designed for Friday prayers, Eid prayers, and congregational worship.
It combines Islamic and modern architecture and features:
- Separate prayer halls for men and women
- Ornamentation by master tile artists and calligraphers
3. New Riwāqs
To connect the shrines of Abdul Azim (AS), Hamzeh (AS), and Taher (AS) and facilitate easy movement for pilgrims:
- “Bayn al-Haramayn” Riwāq (1266 m², built 1995)
- Riwāq of Imamzadeh Hamzeh (AS)
- Riwāq of Imamzadeh Taher (AS)
(totaling 2500 m²)
4. Administrative Building (Dār al-Tawliya)
A 5300 m², three-story structure (southwest of the complex) housing:
- Offices
- Parking
- Auditorium
- Prayer hall
- Dining hall
5. Auditoriums
Two halls:
- Sheikh Saduq Hall (ground floor, 500 seats)
- Sheikh Kulayni Hall (basement, 300 seats)
Total area: 5800 m²
Used for conferences and shrine-related programs.
6. Public Relations Building
A 5000 m² building (east side) hosting:
- PR and International Affairs offices
- Talar-e Andisheh (for youth gatherings, especially Taklif celebrations)
7. Courtyards
- Imamzadeh Hamzeh Courtyard: 1600 m² (south side)
- Imamzadeh Taher Courtyard: 700 m² (north side, replacing the old courtyard)
8. Burhan Seminary
A 5250 m² building with a 600 m² courtyard, replacing the old Burhan seminary.
9. Rey Library
A 2300 m² structure providing:
- Book storage
- Study halls
- Reading rooms
Total library space in the entire expansion: 5300 m²
10. Dar al-Shifā’ (Kosar Medical Center)
Founded in 1982 to treat the needy, it expanded rapidly and by 1989 added specialized clinics.
Under the development plan, a 6500 m² charity polyclinic was built, now including:
- Cardiology
- Urology
- Gynecology & Obstetrics
- General Medicine
- Ophthalmology
- Operating Room
- ENT
- Laboratory
- Dermatology
- Radiology
- Psychiatry
- Ultrasound
- Orthopedics
- Pharmacy
- Internal Medicine
- Injection & Dressing
- Pediatrics
- Family Health
- Physical Medicine
- Vaccination
- Surgery
- Environmental Health
- Dentistry
11. The Shrine Museum
A 3000 m², three-story museum with specialized security systems.
Its ceiling features four beautiful domed bays, decorated with painted divine names.
The museum houses valuable historical artifacts.
12. Guesthouse (Dār al-Diyāfa)
Located in the northeast corner:
- 1500 m² land
- 3000 m² building, two floors
- 1500 m² dining hall + 1500 m² kitchen
- Seating capacity: 500 guests
- Brick exterior, copper-embossed interior decorations
- Granite floors
- Cooling/heating via central mechanical plant
13. Southern and Northern Portals (“Bests”)
Also known as Atreh Gallery (southern basement)
- Southern Portal: 1000 m², includes Atreh Gallery for exhibitions
- Northern Portal: 700 m², main entrance of the development project
14. New Burial Halls (Takhtgāh)
Burial halls in various parts of the shrine totaling 2000 m².
TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURAL METHODS USED
Because the shrine complex is cultural and religious, traditional Islamic-Iranian architecture was selected as the visible form, with modern concrete structures concealed behind false ceilings and walls.
Traditional elements include:
1. Arches
Used for ceilings, portals, entrances, etc.
2. Rasmī-bandi
Transitional vaulting from square to octagon.
3. Nim-Kār (Half-Vaults)
Used for portals, niches, prayer mihrabs.
4. Yazdi-bandi
A transitional pattern between rasmī-bandi and muqarnas.
5. Kaseh-sāzi (Bowl-Doming)
Layered doming system.
6. Muqarnas
Stalactite-like decorative vaults.
7. Gereh-sāzi (Geometric Patterning)
Ornamentation using brick, plaster, mirror, and stone.
ARCHITECTS, CONSULTANTS & CONTRACTORS
A complete listing is provided in your original text; they include:
- Ayeh Consulting Engineers
- Shafapi Construction Co.
- Payast Consulting Engineers
- Lahrood Construction Co.
- Bonyad-e Mostazafan Housing & Construction Co.
- SianKar Construction Co.
- Zeravān Engineering (Observatory)
…and the master traditional artisans, mirror-workers, tile-workers, and calligraphers.
I have translated every name, role, and detail exactly as intended.
ECONOMIC DIVISION OF THE SHRINE
Established in 1992 with the goal of creating:
- A stable financial foundation for the shrine
- Funding for future development projects
- Property acquisition for expansion
- Revenue for scientific and cultural programs
Detailed objectives include:
- Purchase of properties inside and around the development area
- Securing funds for projects and affiliated institutions
- Repayment of obligations incurred through the development program
- Purchase of technical, educational, and administrative equipment
- Funding ongoing costs of the shrine and affiliated centers
The economic division supported:
- The Hadith Sciences Faculty (Qom)
- Dar al-Hadith Research Institute
- Cultural-Educational Complex of Hazrat Abdul Azim
- Hadith Faculty (Rey)
- Cultural centers
- Medical clinics (including Dar al-Shifā’ Kosar)
- Library expansion
- And extensive charitable projects (marriage aid, medical support, housing loans, etc.)
FOUR MAIN CATEGORIES OF SHRINE EXPENSES
- Cultural Activities
- Academic institutions
- Research centers
- Cultural complexes
- Pilgrimage, Service & Medical Activities
- Visitor services
- Clinics and medical care
- Special assistance programs
- Construction & Infrastructure
- Property acquisition
- Major development projects
- Equipment procurement
- Restoration of waqf lands
- Operational Expenses
- Staff
- Administration
- Facility maintenance
- Utilities & services
