Archive for year: 2017
Shazdeh Garden, Iran (Photos, Water source, Info)
Shazdeh Garden, this green oasis, lies deep in the heart of the desert. Located near Mahan in the province of Kerman, Bagh-e-Shazdeh or Shazdeh Garden (Prince Garden) is one of the historical Persian gardens with a rectangular plan constructed during the Qajar dynasty in the late 1900s. Similar to other great Persian gardens such as Eram Garden in Shiraz, Dowlatabad Garden in Yazd, and Fin Garden in Kashan it is also inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage List. If you’re interested in Persian Gardens, make sure you pay them a visit during your travel to Iran.
Green Garden in Dry Desert
What is very remarkable about Shazdeh Garden is that it is located in the heart of the desert, where nothing exists but dry plains. However, the entrance of the garden welcomes tourists to the earthly paradise. Putting a step inside this mesmerizing landscape, one can see the pools streaming along the yard, the trees offering shade to the pathway, and the flowers spreading perfume everywhere. The façade of an old pavilion appears from behind the fountains, leading visitors toward a magnificent structure.
A great sample of Persian gardens, located in the heart of the desert
Shazdeh Garden Features
The perfect plan of this garden, the architecture of the pavilion, and its interior design and decorations all reflect the Iranians ‘elaborate art, culture, and lifestyle. There are two stories in the structure of Shazdeh Garden. A thatched brick wall surrounds the mezzanine’s eight watchtowers. On the southwest side of the garden, a pavilion stands at the end and the highest point. Many structures line the path between the pavilion and the entrance to the garden. There are five fountains in the pool in front of the pavilion, where the water can rise to eight meters.
Shazdeh Garden Greenery
In order to supply water, the Qanat technique is applied. Since there is a natural slope in the garden, gravity helped the Iranian engineers water the plants. Therefore, water enters the yard on the upper side, and the stream runs through the terrace-shaped pools of the garden to irrigate trees and flowers. That is why Shazdeh Garden enjoys a variety of trees with different functions; the windbreak trees like pine and cypress, shade trees like poplar or wild elm, and fruit trees like peach or plum. Separated from its surrounding desert by high walls, the garden offers visitors an oasis of comfort. As a great sample of Persian gardens, Shazdeh Garden hosts many tourists who travel to Iran, especially in spring and summer. Therefore, tourists will have the chance to explore the specific features of Shazdeh Garden and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.
A view of Shazdeh Garden in Kerman province, Iran
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Persian Carpet History & Types: All You Need To Know
Iran has a universal reputation in carpet weaving. Persian carpet or Iranian rug, a heavy textile for decoration or home use, is one of the main features of Iranian culture and art as well as one of the leading exports. Woven in various types by nomads and workshops, it is the narrator of Iranian arts and cultures, traditions, people, and lifestyles. Persian handmade carpets are well-known for their longevity, lavish textures, strong colors, and elaborate designs. They are characterized by natural dyes, traditional tribal patterns, as well as modern designs, but old techniques. The cities that are famous for their carpets include Isfahan, Nain, Kashan, Tabriz, Mashad, Kerman, and Qom.
In 2010, traditional skills of carpet weaving in Fars and Kashan were inscribed on the Representative List of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Carpets of Kashan are made by Persian weaving style (known as asymmetrical knotting), so the backside of the carpet is evenly knotted. Carpets of Fars, woven by Iran nomads on the horizontal frame placed on the ground, and without any design.
The oldest known carpet in the world showing the long history of the art of carpet weaving is over two thousand years old Pazyric carpet, excavated in 1949. Whether it belongs to the Achaemenid craftsmen or the place where it was found, is still subject to controversy. Although Persian carpets were mentioned in historical writings before Christ, there are no surviving carpets from the Achaemenian and Parthian periods.
Persian Carpet
The exact time that Persians started to weave pile carpets is not known, but Persian carpets in the Sassanid period were used as covering for the floors in Persia, Anatolia, and Byzance. On the contrary, flat weaving was known during that era according to the history books and the textiles preserved in western museums and eastern monasteries, and burial sites. It is guessed that Baharestan Carpet in Ctesiphon was made in this way; a Sassanid hand-woven carpet using silk, gold, and silver threads, decorated with precious stones.
After Islam, magnificent Persian carpets, especially the silk ones, have been mentioned and adored by historians and writers from different lands at various times. As Islam prohibited using human motifs, carpet designs changed to floral and geometric patterns. It was the beginning of a new era of Persian carpet weaving.
During different eras, Persian carpets have experienced changes in style and design and Iranian weavers have combined new ideas with their old styles. In miniatures that remained from the Timurid period, carpets show colorful geometrical shapes and designs derived from Kufic calligraphy. No carpet woven before 1500 A.D. has survived.
Persian Carpet-Kilim
The Persian carpets in the Safavid era were famous for their elaborate spectacular colors and designs. During this era, court manufactories and large workshops were established and the art of carpet weaving reached its peak. There are no early Safavid carpets survived, but later Safavid carpets still exist. The miniatures during the late 15th century show a considerable change in Persian carpet design and weaving. Simple straight lines turned into more elaborate designs such as more curves, large medallions, figures of flowers and animals, arabesques, and tendrils.
Persian carpets were so skillfully and finely woven in the Safavid era presented to the European countries as gifts, especially the silk ones woven by gold and silver threads. Ardabil Carpet, kept in the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, is one of the best examples of the old Persian carpets. Another distinguished carpet in the Safavid era is the Vase technique carpet attributed to Kerman.
In the Afsharid period, Mashad as the capital became the center of carpet weaving and Afsharid designs and motifs were created. These carpets are known for their large size, warm colors, and long life. In the Qajar dynasty, Tabriz was known as the center of the modern weaving style of Persian carpet.
In the late 19th century, synthetic dyes and commercial designs found their way into the old traditional style of carpet weaving.
In 1935, Reza Shah Pahlavi founded the Iran Carpet Company. So, the carpet industry export was brought under government control.
Persian Carpet in Niavaran Palace
Nomadic rugs are different from carpet workplaces in design and way of weaving. The best-known type of Persian rug is called Gabbeh. In the 1980s, Gabbeh- at first woven by nomads- became popular in Europe.
Wool, cotton, and silk are the materials used for weaving the carpets. Traditional dyes are taken from plants and insects, such as Oak acorns, Indigo, and Madder. The looms are divided into horizontal and vertical. Horizontal looms are usually used by the nomads. Persian carpets are usually woven by two different knots: the symmetrical Turkish and the symmetrical Persian. Two famous kinds of flat-woven carpets include Kilim and Jajm.
The Persian carpet is one of the best Iran souvenirs for tours to Iran. There is a vast variety of styles and designs to satisfy all different kinds of tastes.
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Persian Handicrafts, the Best Souvenirs of Iran
Since Iran is one of the oldest civilizations in the world and is home to so many tribes varying in culture, lifestyles, and traditions, it has produced a variety of handicrafts throughout history. Persian art of handicrafts goes beyond textile weaving. It includes Iranian metalworks, woodworks, pottery, Persian miniature, calligraphy, straw-made products, mosaic, and stone. Persian handicrafts, each narrating the stories of the culturally diverse populations in different parts of vast Iran, are among the best souvenirs for tours to Iran. Here we introduce you to some of the most stunning Iranian handicrafts.
Iranian Handicrafts
Iranian weavings are well-known for their antiquity, elegance, durability, and variety. The most famous one is the Persian carpet. It has been used as the covering for floors for thousands of years in Great Persia. Different geometrical shapes, medallions, tendrils, and figures of plants and animals woven with local materials specific to each area, inspired by the natural environment, are reminiscent of Persian gardens, full of flowers and birds. Persian rugs woven by nomads are different in style and design. The most prominent nomad rugs include Gabbeh, Kilim, and Jajim.
Handwoven Fabrics
Iranian fabric named Ghalamkar is made by hand drawing or printing using patterned wooden stamps. Termeh is another Iranian hand-woven cloth, primarily produced in Yazd. Its weaving is very delicate and time-taking. The most famous of the factories producing traditionally woven Termeh is Rezaei Termeh. Another kind of Persian weaving embroidery is Zardozi. The designs are made using gold and silver threads, pearls, and precious stones. Nowadays, copper wires, polished by gold or silver, and silk threads are used as well. It also includes Golduzi (embroidery stitches), Baluchi Suzanduzi (needlework), Seke duzi (shisha embroidery), Rashti Qollabduzi (a special kind of broderie), and Kermani Pateh duzi (a style of Iranian embroidery).
Zarbaft Weaving, One of The Traditional Persian Handicrafts
Persian Metalworks
The beginning of Persian metalwork goes back to the Luristan bronzes. Iranian Metalworks include Minakari (Enamel working), Ghalamzani (also Qalamzani or Toreutics), and Firoozeh Koobi, wherein the metal is decorated with colorful coats and carved or hammered. Isfahan is well-known for its enamel artwork. Firoozeh Koobi is another Persian art that is a very popular Iranian handicraft. With the beautiful color of Turquoise used in the metals, they are among the best Iran souvenirs.
Iranian Woodcrafts
Woodworks in Iran comprise Moarragh or Moarraq (an Iranian handicraft made of small pieces of different woods) and wood carving. Khatam kari is another Persian art of marquetry dating back to the Safavid period. The artist decorates the wooden surface of the jewelry boxes, chessboards, desks, and suchlike with different shapes (generally star-shaped) of pieces of wood, bone, metal, and sometimes gold, silver, ivory, and brass. Sometimes it is combined with miniature to make a unique work of art.
Persian Handicrafts – A wooden handicraft decorated by the artistic hands of Iranian locals
Decorative Handicrafts
Persian tilework is one of the spectacular Iranian art crafts. In the past, Isfahan and Tabriz were the two main centers of the Iranian mosaic. Golestan Palace in Tehran is another outstanding example of Persian tilework for tours to Iran. The art of Miniature rose in Iran in the 13th century and continues to this day. It is a very detailed, usually tiny painting that requires great skill and proficiency and a thin brush to paint such detailed artwork. The best example of a modern Persian miniature is Frshchian’s. Persian calligraphy is another Persian art that has several styles. Iranian pottery, metalwork, and historic buildings often feature calligraphy. The art of calligraphy reached its peak in the illumination of the Quran, Shahnameh, Divan-e Hafez, and other well-known Iranian literature. Nastaliq is the most popular Persian calligraphy style, known as the “Bride of the calligraphy scripts”.
Best Souvenirs of Iran
Persian art goes beyond the abovementioned and includes stone carvings and mosaics. Turquoise Inlaying on jewelry or materials such as silver, copper, or brass is one of the most distinctive Iranian handicrafts. The turquoises of Mashhad and Nishapur have the most fame with the highest quality. Pottery and ceramics have a long history in Iran. The history of pottery dates back more than 6-7 thousand years ago in Susa, Tepe Sialk in Kashan, Jiroft, and Burnt City. Kalpuregan Museum in Sistan and Baluchestan province is known as the only live ceramic museum; because its working style has passed from generation to generation for over 5 thousand years without any change.
Persian Handicrafts – Pottery and ceramics have a long history in Iran.
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Dowlatabad Garden, the Architectural Jewel of Yazd
Dowlatabad Garden, the architectural jewel of Yazd, is inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of the picturesque Persian gardens. It is constructed over 200 years ago for different functions, and now it hosts many tourists who travel to Iran. Dowlatabad Garden (Dolat Abad Garden) in Yazd; is a beautiful adobe city with many flourished arts and techniques. Many arts and techniques are manifested in this garden, such as woodworking, Qanat, and windcatchers. Historically, Dowlatabad’s great garden was irrigated by Qanat, an ancient method of providing water.
Dowlatabad Garden Features
Like many other Persian gardens, such as Eram Garden or Shazdeh Garden, Dowlatabad also features a pool. Through tall pine trees, the water runs to reach the architecturally perfect mansion. The mansion is built based on an octagonal plan embracing an outstanding wind catcher (Badgir). The wind catcher is a Persian architectural element used to make natural ventilation in buildings located in arid areas. With a height of about 33 meters, the windcatcher of Dowlatabad is the tallest old windcatcher in the world.
The windcatcher of Dowlatabad Garden is the tallest old wind catcher in the world. The interior design of the mansion also has its own distinctive features. The engraved wooden doors of the mansion and the colorful lattice windows of the rooms that pleasantly lead the light inside are eye-catching for many tourists.
Wind catchers pleasantly lead the cool weather inside the building during the hot summer.
Persian Garden Greenery
Dowlatabad Garden is surrounded by many fruit trees such as pomegranates and grapes that give more beauty to the garden. Moreover, small lanterns are around the garden’s pathways to offer visitors a memorable experience. According to the above descriptions, Dowlatabad is one of the sites in Yazd that is worth a visit to take perfect pictures, enjoy its spectacular atmosphere, and contemplate the breathtaking Persian architecture and notions.
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Eram Garden, Shiraz: Photos, History, Opening Hours, Price
Shiraz Eram Garden is among the most beautiful Persian gardens in Iran. It is such a unique and gorgeous garden that is inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the holy book of the Quran, Eram is described as the paradise prepared for the blessed ones. It has a great atmosphere surrounded by tall cypress trees, fragrant flowers, and aromatic sour orange trees. Moreover, the sound of birds singing in the green space of the garden brings peace and quiet to the tourists, and it is quite pleasurable to have a stroll across the garden. In spring, Eram Garden catches the eye with its colorful blooms and blossoms, and it is a great tourist destination that attracts those who travel to Iran.
Eram Garden Shiraz
Eram Garden in Shiraz boasts a myriad of captivating highlights that enchant visitors with their beauty and historical significance. One of the top attractions within the garden is the stunning mansion, a masterpiece of Persian architecture adorned with intricate tilework and elaborate designs. Inside the mansion, visitors can marvel at the richly decorated rooms, each telling a story of bygone eras.
Another highlight is the tranquil reflecting pool, bordered by fragrant flowers and shaded by towering cypress trees, providing a serene spot for contemplation. The garden’s lush greenery, punctuated by colorful blooms and winding pathways, invites leisurely strolls and moments of relaxation amidst nature’s embrace.
Additionally, the soaring cypress trees, some of which are centuries old, add a sense of grandeur and timeless elegance to the landscape. For those interested in history and culture, Eram Garden offers a glimpse into Iran’s rich heritage with its blend of traditional Persian architecture and garden design.
Eram Garden History
The history of Eram Garden structured as a Persian garden, dates back to the Seljuk dynasty (approximately 400 years ago), while the old building within the garden belongs to the Qajar period. In later years, the landscape was purchased by a member of a Qashqai tribe, who built the original mansion and planted different flower and tree species.
Eram Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Shiraz
Nasir al-Mulk purchased the garden during the Qajar period, and his son finished it after his death. Iran’s Cultural Heritage Organization protects the Eram Garden and the building as a historical landscape within the Shiraz Botanical Garden.
Eram Garden Architecture
The garden area has undergone many changes over the years. The steep slope of the land presented a challenge for building this garden, which was overcome by using stairs. The ceramic tiles on the palace in the middle of the garden are unique.
A closer look at the arch of this building will reveal short animated stories painted on the tiles. The building has elaborate architecture decorated with tiles that are designed by poems by great poets such as Hafez and Saadi. Inside this building is a precious stone museum that can be very interesting.
It also has a view of the blue pool that enhances the picturesque scene of the garden and makes the environment cool during the hot days of summer. Owing to its variety of plants, Eram Garden is popular as the botanical garden supported and managed by Shiraz University and is open to the public to enjoy its many beauties.
Eram Garden Opening Hours & Price
The opening hours of Eram Garden are subject to change on special occasions, but on regular days, the garden is open from 8:00 in the morning until 8:30 in the evening. Whether you’re planning a leisurely stroll or a family picnic, consider Eram Persian Garden Opening Hours for the best experience in a serene and picturesque environment and to make the most of your visit to Shiraz.
Eram Garden Photos
Keep in mind that the best time to visit Eram Garden is during the spring season. Eram Garden price for foreigners is around 3€, which could be purchased before entering the complex.
Eram Garden Address: Eram Blvd., Shiraz
Eram Garden Reviews
Everyone admires the way the garden is well maintained with lots of opportunities to sit and spend some time. Traditional Persian beverages, faloudeh, and ice cream are offered in the garden’s tea house. Traditional Persian beverages, faloudeh, and ice cream are offered in the garden’s tea house.
Many visitors found the architecture of the palace a magnificent piece of artwork, loving the fascinating photography opportunities that seem to never end. With so much to admire and appreciate in Eram Garden, it’s no wonder that visitors fall in love with this place.
Last Words
Visiting Eram Garden is an indispensable part of any journey to Shiraz, Iran. Eram Garden boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a magnificent mansion adorned with exquisite tilework and intricate Persian architecture. From its elevated terrace, visitors can savor panoramic views of the garden and beyond, providing a glimpse into Shiraz’s storied past. Only walking along the shaded pathways and encountering fountains gushing with crystal-clear water, reflecting the colorful blossoms on the trees, enhances the whole experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of respite from the bustling city, Eram Garden offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Shiraz’s charm and allure.
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Persian Garden, the Paradise on Earth
The Persian garden, in many ways, resembles paradise on Earth. The general pattern of a Persian garden (Bostan) is a rectangular form consisting of four quarters abundant in trees and flowers. Persian gardens feature streams and pathways, ponds and fountains, usually a central pavilion, and the walls surrounding the garden. The Persian gardens are so remarkable that nine out of a wide variety are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. These gardens are located in different geographic parts of Iran with different climates and have their own unique features, but they are still similar in their overall structure.
Dowlatabad garden, a Persian paradise, located in Yazd city
In Persian literature, the word garden in Persian ‘Bostan’ means paradise, derived from the word “paridaiza”. The term paridaiza refers to a garden enclosed by walls. This walled garden creates harmony between nature and the human art of creation. The evergreen trees harness the sharp sunlight, the flowing water makes the environment refreshing, and the pavilion blocks the sunlight while providing a picturesque view from the terrace.
Persian Garden History
Persian garden holds roots in the 6th BC when Cyrus The Great, who ruled over a vast territory, determined the plan of the ancient garden of Pasargadae and ordered it to be constructed at Pasargadae (close to Shiraz province). In fact, the Persian garden plan, its elaborate architecture, and the presence of natural elements originated from Cyrus’ notions. The purpose of the Persian garden was to provide physical and spiritual relaxation. So, it is true to say that it was during the Achaemenid Empire that the idea of an earthly paradise came into reality.
The Old Days of Persian Gardens
Later, the Sassanids created gardens of Persia inspired by Zoroastrianism. According to their religious belief, the four quarters of the garden resembled four seasons of the year, and the importance of water running through the yard was more emphasized. The oldest documented illustration of a Persian garden also dates back to the Sassanid era. In the bas-relief of Taq-e Bostan, the hunt garden of Khosrow Parviz (the king of the Sassanid dynasty) is one of the oldest works of engraved art that depicts the geometry of the Persian garden. In the Islamic period, there was a significant improvement in gardens in terms of aesthetics.
The Ancient Pasargadae Persian Garden
Persian Garden Features
Persian garden architecture, geometry, and design are not the only aspects that make them unique. Symbolism has a profound role in adding value to the Iranian garden. Natural and artificial elements combine in the garden in a perfect reflection of symbolic and physical beliefs. Various opinions exist about the meaning of each element in the garden; however, most agree that it represents an earthly paradise. Moreover, four quarters called Chahar Bagh (four gardens) symbolize the universe whose architect is God, the water represents men’s and women’s purification, and the evergreen trees, particularly cypress trees, signify immortality. They are valuable not only for their symbolism but also for their usefulness.
An Inspiration for Persian Arts
Since Iranians appreciate art in different forms, the idea of the Persian garden has influenced the design, decoration, and description of other works of art, such as Persian carpet, pottery, calligraphy, music, and poetry. Among all these, Persian carpets are a great illustration of Persian gardens. There are many carpet designs that take inspiration from the Persian garden, so perhaps it is better to refer to the carpet as a flat Persian garden full of trees, flowers, and birds.
A view of Fin Garden located in Kashan
Ancient Persian Gardens
It has been a long time since the construction of Pasargadae in 6th BC. However, the Persian garden has maintained its geometrical and architectural principles. It has also found its way to other countries, especially Agra in India and Andalusia in Spain. Moreover, Pasargadae Garden, Chehel Sotoun, Fin Garden, Eram Garden, Shazdeh Garden, Dowlatabad Garden, Abbasabad Garden, Akbarieh Garden, and Pahlevanpour Garden are the Persian garden examples inscribed on UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they attract tours to Iran either by their survived plans or their scenic sceneries.
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The Role of Handicrafts in Tourism and Development
Handicrafts are part of the tangible cultural heritage of all nations. This cultural component can lead to economic development. Regarding the role of handicrafts in tourism and development, the World Crafts Council (WCC), affiliated with UNESCO, was founded in 1964 to help economic growth for craftspeople worldwide.
The Core of Tourism
Handicrafts, as cultural souvenirs, play a significant role in tourism too. In many countries, handicrafts are considered the core of tourism development, and tourism facilities have been built near the major production centers. Some try to show their originality and identity by offering new products made through a combination of their national symbols with their handicrafts.
Iranian Handicrafts
Handicraft is a significant industry in Iran. The tours to Iran usually include buying Persian handicrafts, especially Persian carpets and Persian miniatures. The Iranian handicraft industry is developing due to its great diversity. “Different countries are developing handicrafts worldwide by not underestimating them as just decorative objects,” said Rasoul Zargarpour, governor of the Isfahan Province.
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Persian Enameling, a majestic expression of art
Towards International Markets
He said that special attention is dedicated to handicrafts, especially in rural areas, by making rules for handicrafts in Iran’s 6th Development Plan. He also noted that the development of handicrafts has a significant role in employment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Establishing large handicraft workshops and knowledge-based centers for handicrafts, forming export committees, finding new markets, and making targeted policies to encourage more producers to be active in international markets should be among our programs.
Handicrafts and Tourism
“Tourism and handicrafts are two main elements in resistance economy. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the center of genuine handicrafts. Last year, Shahreza was registered nationally as the city of pottery. Moreover, Mehr Gerd Village is going to be introduced as the village of handicrafts in the world”, Jafar Jafarsalehi, deputy head of the handicraft department of Isfahan ICHTO, added. There is a mutual relationship between tourism and handicrafts. Handicrafts are one of the factors influencing tourist attractions, and tourism development will end in the growth of handicraft production and sale.
Balochi Duzi, a kind of Iranian handicraft
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