Najaf Governorate

The territory stretches from the Euphrates River to the Saudi Arabian border, covering 28,824 square kilometers of predominantly agricultural landscapes and desert terrain.

The governorate emerged in 1976 through the reorganization of Iraqi administrative regions, incorporating portions of existing territories to establish a new provincial structure.

The provincial capital Najaf contains the Imam Ali Mosque, which receives millions of Shia Muslim pilgrims each year seeking spiritual connection at this sacred site.

Local government operations function through a structured system of districts, including Najaf, Kufa, Al-Manathera, and Al-Meshkhab, each managing specific administrative responsibilities.

The governorate maintains Wadi-us-Salaam, extending across a substantial portion of Najaf city, recognized as the largest cemetery in the world.

Location: Iraq

Inception: 1976

Capital city: Najaf

Shares border with: Karbala Governorate, Northern Borders Province, Al Muthanna Governorate

GPS coordinates: 31.33835,43.84113

Latest update: May 27, 2025 07:06