Funeral of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei held at Imam Reza shrine.

Ali Khamenei’s body has arrived at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, Razavi Khorasan Province, where the funeral will be held. The shrine is one of the most sacred sites in Shia Islam, drawing nearly 30 million pilgrims each year and making it the most popular destination for Muslim worship.

The Imam Reza Shrine is the burial place of the eighth Shia Imam, Ali Reza, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad known for his piety and scholarship. His lineage can be traced back to Fatimah, Muhammad’s daughter, through her sons Hasan and Husayn. In Sunni Sufi traditions he is revered as an important spiritual authority, while in Shia Sufi circles he is regarded as a model ascetic. According to the account “The Story of Reza,” many miracles were said to have occurred within the shrine’s walls.

Spanning 1.2 million square metres, the shrine is the world’s second‑largest mosque after the Kaaba in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. Inside the complex are other significant buildings, including the Goharshad Mosque, the Astaneh‑ye Khomeini Central Museum, and the Astaneh‑ye Khomeini Central Library. Each year, millions of pilgrims visit to pay homage to Ali Reza.

Khamenei’s funeral at the Imam Reza Shrine symbolizes his deep roots in Iran’s Shia Islamic tradition. As Iran’s Supreme Leader, he held a pivotal position in the country’s political and religious spheres. His death has had a profound impact on Iran’s politics and society, and the government and the people are mourning his passing.

The Imam Reza Shrine holds a significant place in Iran’s culture and religion, reflecting the Iranian people’s devotion to Islam and respect for their spiritual leaders. Its architecture and art also showcase Iran’s rich cultural heritage and its contributions to Islam.

For Taiwan, the funeral and the importance of the Imam Reza Shrine offer a window into Iranian culture and religion. Although Taiwan and Iran differ in geography and cultural background, both nations possess rich cultural and religious traditions. By learning about Iran’s culture and faith, Taiwanese people can gain a deeper understanding of the world’s diverse cultures and religions, fostering mutual understanding and respect. At the same time, Iran’s energy and petrochemical industry is a major global sector, and Taiwan’s development in these fields also requires attention to Iran’s dynamics and trends.