The Ashabi-Kahf sanctuary is located in a natural cave situated approximately 12 kilometers from the city of Nakhchivan, between Mount Ilandagh and Mount Nahajir. The term “Ashabi-Kahf” in Arabic means “the People of the Cave.” Information about a place with the same name in Asia Minor or the territory of Palestine can be found in ancient religious literature, including the Holy Qur’an.
According to the legend reflected in the Qur’an, particularly in Surah Al-Kahf (“The Cave”), a group of young believers who had faith in God hid in a cave with their dog in order to escape persecution. God caused them to fall asleep and awakened them after 300 plus 9 years. However, upon seeing an unfamiliar world, the youths returned to an eternal sleep. The local legend widespread in the Nakhchivan region carries nearly the same content.
The Ashabi-Kahf site has undergone restoration and improvement works. Facilities have been created for pilgrims, a comfortable road of 13 kilometers has been constructed, a mosque has been built, and an inscription has been installed at the site.