Iran - Sheikh Safi al-din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil

"Constructed between the beginning of the 16th century and the end of the 18th century, this place of spiritual retirement soufi uses Iranian traditional architectural forms. The constructors knew how to draw the best party of the space reduced to assure numerous functions, notably a library, a mosque, a school, a mausoleum, a tank, a hospital, of kitchens, a bakery and some offices. The site consists of a progression driving to the shrine of the Sheikh articulated in seven stages which reflect the seven stadiums of soufi mysticism, separated by eight doors which represent the eight attitudes of Sufism. The site also consists of facades and inside richly decorated as well as remarkable collection of ancient objects. It forms rare group of elements of medieval Islamic architecture." 

Source: UNESCO World Heritage

Mausoleum of Sheikh Safi-Oddin Ardebili, Chini Khaneh, Ardebil, Iran. Thanks to Ingrid of Iran.