Wadi Al-Salam: The Vast Necropolis of Najaf, Iraq, Housing 6 Million Resting Souls
By- Priyanka Rai
Najaf, Iraq, is home to the world's largest graveyard, Wadi Al-Salam, with over six million bodies buried
The cemetery is known as the "Valley of Peace" and is expanding at double its usual rate, according to a 2021 Reuters report
Wadi Al-Salam covers 13% of Najaf's area, resembling a city from above, with graves resembling cramped buildings
Burials in the cemetery date back to ancient times, with dozens of prophets, scientists, and royals laid to rest, including Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib
The graveyard holds the remains of kings from Al-Hira, leaders from Al-Sassani era, and individuals from various historical states
Different burial methods, including lower graves and high graves (towers), are observed in Wadi Al-Salam
The cemetery reflects a unique cultural tradition and serves as a traditional example of land use
Its significance for Shia Muslims worldwide, attracting 50,000 burials annually
The cost of digging a grave is $100, and tombstones range from $170 to $200, as reported by AFP
Wadi Al-Salam is the world's largest burial ground, recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness Book of World Records, spanning 917 hectares