Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Marble installation begins
This article was published by the Bahá’í World News Service on 18 April 2025.
BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE — The construction of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has reached a significant milestone with the commencement of marble installation in the central plaza. This important development marks the beginning of a process that will continue over several months, gradually shaping the edifice’s final form.
Work is also steadily advancing across different parts of the site, including completion of the historic path to the Riḍván Garden, now reopened to pilgrims. Landscaping work is also under way in several areas, and the ‘Akká Visitors’ Centre is nearing completion.
Speaking with the Bahá’í World News Service, Khosrow Rezai, the project manager, reflected on the journey thus far: “The construction of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has been steadily in progress since its inception. We have had many challenges, some by conditions in the world ... but the work has never stopped. We have been working day in and day out over the past six years.
“When there was a shortage of workers,” he continued, “we focused resources on one area to advance, then moving attention to other parts. … We found opportunities to be creative and to make sure that the work never stopped.”
Each metal frame is curvilinear, accommodating the shape of the specific marble piece it will house. This intricate installation system was designed by Margraf, the Ialian company that cut and shaped the marble for the project.
A spider crane raises a marble piece to another location.
Paving of the historic path that leads to the Riḍván Garden and to the entrance of the future Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
The completed historic path with lamp posts.
The full article and additional photographs can be found on the Bahá’í World News Service (BWNS) website: Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Marble installation begins, marking major milestone | BWNS
Featured photo: Aerial view of the construction of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá from the south-west.
