These medals, given in respect to the eighth Shia Imam, are a significant attraction at the museum.

The collection gained prominence after world champion wrestler Gholamreza Takhti donated his medals, inspiring many other Iranian athletes and scientists to follow suit. Today, the museum houses medals from various sports, including Taekwondo, football, wrestling, and track and field.

Amir Khaleghi, director of the shrine’s Communications and Information Office, explained the donation process: “For medals to be accepted by the museum, they have to come from world, Olympic, or Asian tournaments.” He noted that the number of donated medals varies each year based on the number of competitions.

Khaleghi added, “Medals are kept in the holy shrine museum and put on display to the public after undergoing a specific admission procedure. The museum also showcases medals of athletes who have passed away.” Donors of medals may also receive the privilege of becoming shrine servants, depending on the type and rank of their medals.

Photos released by news.razavi.ir in mid-October 2024