Question: Why is Najaf, Iraq considered a "holy" city?
Answer: Located 190 km. south of the capital of Baghdad, Najaf is considered a "holy" city among Shi'a Muslims. It is here that 'Ali is buried: the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad and the person whom Shi'a Muslims believe should have succeeded the Prophet in leadership after his death. In 661 A.D., Ali was assassinated in Kufa, a town 11 km. northeast of Najaf.
The "Imam 'Ali Mosque" is central in Najaf, and is often a pilgrimage destination for Shi'a Muslims. There are additional pilgrimage sites in the city, centered around historical, religious events and figures. Over history, the city also became a seminary and has been home to many Shi'a scholars.
The name of the city means "dry river" (nay-jaff).
