Ritual Tourism

Rites, traditions and rituals running in people's lives are deep-rooted in their beliefs and faiths. The compilation of recreation and amusement with pilgrimage, paying visits to the graves of the saints and deceased and showing abiding affections, has been a longstanding custom in Iran since ancient times. This includes the pilgrimage and paying tribute to the shrines of Imams (Saints in Shi’a), their descendants, and other religious figures; a ritual which brings about unique spiritual and sincere experience. The significant, long-lasting tradition of pilgrimage, ritual excursion and outing, has survived up to this time. As group activities, such customs bring together children, youth and the elders, and revive them with enthusiasm. In addition to pilgrimage and joy, “ritual tourism” significantly helps activating the historical-religious sites, which are extremely valuable national heritages.