Imam Reza Shrine unveils new visual identity ahead of farewell ceremony

The holy complex of Imam Reza Shrine is undergoing a sweeping visual transformation as it prepares to host the funeral farewell ceremony for the Martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
Far beyond conventional mourning decor, the new spatial design has been conceived as a visual narrative of continuity, allegiance, and enduring guardianship. Black drapery across the shrine, giant wall banners, and the repeated central slogan ‘We must rise’ form the backbone of this new identity.
According to details released on the preparations, around 2,000 meters of black banners and flags have been installed across the courtyards and surrounding entrances of the shrine. These large-scale textile elements have been positioned along major pilgrim routes to create a coherent emotional and symbolic path through the mourning space.
A key component of the arrangement is the installation of 140 stand panels throughout the shrine. Designed around the slogan ‘We must rise,’ the message has also been translated into Arabic, Urdu, and English to address both Iranian pilgrims and international visitors.
The stands feature images of Imam Khomeini and the Martyred Leader, while some also include visuals linked to the continuation of the revolutionary path. In parallel, nearly 700 meters of new wall coverings have been added, incorporating archival images of the martyred Leader’s presence at Imam Reza Shrine over the years.
Four major conceptual murals have also been prepared for prominent entrances and courtyards. One mural at Sheikh Tousi Sanctuary carries the slogan ‘Help from Allah, and Victory is Imminent’ and presents the shrine dome flag alongside the image of the martyred Leader. Additional murals are being installed at the northern portico of Prophet Muhammad Courtyard, Bab al-Jawad, and other high-traffic areas.
A prominent banner in Enghelab Courtyard reads: ‘The servant of the sun has returned to the embrace of the sanctuary.’
Keywords: Imam Reza Shrine, martyred Leader, funeral preparations, visual identity