Sheikh Safī al-Dīn

The mausoleum of Sheikh Safi, in Ardabil, was built by his son Sheikh Sadr al-Din Mūsā, after the death of Sheikh Safi in 1334. It was built between the beginning of the sixteenth century and the end of the eighteenth century. The mausoleum, a circular tower with a dome, decorated with blue tiles, is about 17 meters high; next to it is the 17th century Porcelain House which preserves the ceremonial objects of the sanctuary. Part of the complex are also many sections that have served a variety of functions over the past few centuries, including a library, a mosque, a school, mausoleums, a cistern, a hospital, kitchens, a bakery, and some offices. It incorporates a path to reach the Sheikh sanctuary divided into seven segments, which reflect the seven stages of Sufi mysticism. Various parts of the mausoleum are separated by eight doors, representing the eight attitudes of Sufism.