Tomb of Esther and Mordechai, Jewish mausoleum in Hamadan, Iran
The Tomb of Esther and Mordechai is a domed mausoleum built from brick in Hamadan Province, sheltering two burial chambers with wooden coffins under glazed tile panels. A narrow bridge connects the street to the entrance, below which extends a newer vaulted space used for prayer.
Travelers from the 11th century mention a burial place for Esther and Mordechai in Hamadan, while the present brick dome was erected in 1602. The Jewish community of the city has guarded the site across generations and maintained it as a pilgrimage destination.
Iranian Jews maintain the tomb as a pilgrimage destination, particularly during Purim celebrations when they read from the Book of Esther in the underground synagogue.
Access runs across a footbridge from the main street to the tomb chambers upstairs and the prayer room below. Visitors should wear modest clothing and allow time for both levels to see the site fully.
A six-pointed star-shaped skylight cuts through the ceiling of the underground chapel and channels daylight into the prayer space. This shape merges Persian building techniques with a Jewish symbol visible from the street above.
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