The Khirqa Sharif is the most sacred site in Kandahar — a complex of shrines and locked rooms built around the relic known as the Cloak of the Prophet Muhammad. The cloak itself has been kept here since the 18th century and is normally sealed away; it has been brought out publicly only a handful of times in recorded history.
Non-Muslim visitors are not admitted inside, and the surrounding area is sensitive. The exterior architecture — blue and white tilework typical of Afghan shrine buildings — can be seen from the street. The complex sits adjacent to the Mausoleum of Ahmad Shah Durrani in the old city.