The Italian Embassy to Afghanistan has announced the launch of a restoration project for the Shrine of Hazrat Ali (Rawza-e-Sharif) in Balkh Province, in partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
In a post on X, the embassy said parts of the historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-i-Sharif sustained significant damage during the 6.3-magnitude earthquake that struck Afghanistan last year.
According to the embassy, the restoration project aims to preserve Afghanistan’s cultural heritage while also creating employment opportunities for local communities.
The Shrine of Hazrat Ali, commonly known as Rawza-e-Sharif, is one of Afghanistan’s most iconic historical and religious landmarks. Located in Mazar-i-Sharif, the shrine is traditionally believed by many Muslims to be the burial place of Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib. However, this belief is not universally accepted in the Islamic world. Built in the Timurid architectural style, the complex is renowned for its striking blue-tiled design. It holds deep religious and cultural significance for both Sunni and Shia Muslims in Afghanistan. It is also regarded as one of the country’s most important heritage sites.
