:: Conference Topic

Introduction

The sacred shrines of the infallible Imams (peace be upon them) have always been a focal point of attention and reverence for Muslims, especially Shia believers, throughout history. These sanctified sites, as shining jewels of the Islamic world and spiritual hubs for devotees of the luminous school of Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them), have faced numerous challenges, including attacks and destruction by adversaries. Despite such trials, the love and devotion of Shia communities toward the Prophet's family have led to the continuous restoration and revitalization of these holy places. The perseverance of these sincere efforts, along with countering the distortion attempts by enemies of God and Ahl al-Bayt, requires cultural promotion and public awareness, especially among the younger generation. The International Conference on “Construction, Development, and Reconstruction of the Sacred Shrines Through History” aims to explore and clarify various aspects of this subject from historical, political, social, economic, cultural, and artistic perspectives. This conference offers a valuable platform for scholars, artists, shrine caretakers, and enthusiasts of Islamic history and culture to exchange ideas and experiences, embarking on a spiritually enriching journey into the rich Islamic civilization. We hope to contribute meaningfully to fostering the culture of pilgrimage, rebuilding sacred places, and deepening religious beliefs.
 

Vision and Goals:

• Deepening knowledge of the history and culture of the sacred shrines.
• Strengthening unity among Muslims worldwide.
• Promoting the culture of pilgrimage and devotion to Ahl al-Bayt (pbut).
• Highlighting achievements and challenges in the reconstruction of historical sites.
• Examining Islamic civilization's transformations centered around the sacred shrines.
• Facilitating exchanges among scholars and experts in history, architecture, art, and Islamic culture.

Main topics

Political and Social:

• The history and antiquity of sacred shrines from their inception to modern times.
• The role of Islamic rulers and officials in the development and administration of shrines.
• The significance of Islamic resistance, shrine defenders, and regional policies in protecting sacred shrines and Shiite identity.
• Anthropology and ethnography with a focus on donors, endowments, customs, and traditions in shrine development.
• The Arbaeen pilgrimage and its quantitative and qualitative impacts on shrine development and reconstruction.

Cultural and Artistic:

• Contributions of Islamic nations in cultural and intellectual developments and the publication of books and journals.
• The role of religious scholars in reviving Islamic sciences and promoting the culture of pilgrimage.
• Architectural and artistic evolution in shrine reconstruction and development.
• Contributions of artists and media in showcasing shrine-related restoration and development activities.
• Tangible and intangible heritage of the shrines reflected in museums, manuscripts, poetry, literature, and crafts.

Economic:

• The role of merchants, traders, and artisans in shrine development.
• The impact of shrine reconstruction on economic growth and religious tourism.