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Aina Kari, or Persian mirror art, is a traditional Iranian decorative technique that transforms mirrors into stunning works of art. This intricate craft involves the delicate cutting and arranging of small mirror pieces into geometric and floral patterns, reflecting light in dazzling, kaleidoscopic designs. Aina Kari has been used for centuries to embellish the interiors of palaces, mosques, and historical buildings in Iran, adding a sense of luxury and brilliance to the architecture. Rooted in Persian culture and artistry, this unique craft exemplifies the beauty and precision of Iranian craftsmanship, making it a cherished element of the country’s cultural heritage. Let’s learn more about the fascinating Persian mirror art!

Persian Mirror Art History

The history of Persian mirror art dates back to the Safavid era in the 16th century, a time when the Persian Empire was flourishing in art, culture, and architecture. Mirror work, known as Aina Kari, was introduced in Iran when imported European mirrors arrived in the country.

Initially, mirrors were brought in as large sheets, but many were broken during transportation. Instead of discarding the shattered pieces, skilled Persian craftsmen transformed them into intricate patterns, giving birth to a unique art form that soon became a hallmark of Persian architectural beauty.

Aina Kari became particularly prominent during the Qajar period (late 18th to early 20th century), as it was favored by royalty for decorating palaces and important buildings. The reflective and elaborate nature of the mirror work was seen as a symbol of wealth, power, and divine beauty, making it a preferred choice for the decoration of royal structures.

Persian Mirror Art at Golestan Palace

It was during this time that the art form evolved, with artisans experimenting with complex geometric patterns and floral motifs. The mirror pieces were carefully cut and arranged to create mesmerizing designs, reflecting light in a way that made rooms appear brighter and more spacious.

Some of the most famous examples of Persian mirror art can be seen in Golestan Palace in Tehran, where the Hall of Mirrors (Talar-e Ayeneh) showcases some of the finest Aina Kari work in the country.
Other notable examples include the Narenjestan Qavam in Shiraz and the Ali Qapu Palace in Isfahan. These buildings are adorned with intricate mirror mosaics that reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of Persian artisans, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of Iran’s architectural heritage. The shimmering beauty of Persian mirror art continues to captivate observers, preserving its legacy as one of Iran’s most exquisite cultural treasures.

Persian Mirror Art Style

Persian Mirror Art Style is renowned for its intricate geometric patterns and delicate floral motifs, which are created by carefully arranging tiny mirror pieces. The craftsmanship involved in this art form is highly detailed, with artisans using precise cutting techniques to shape mirrors into symmetrical forms.

The reflective nature of the mirrors amplifies light and creates a dazzling, almost magical, effect in the spaces where this art is applied. These mirror patterns are often combined with other traditional Persian decorative elements, such as tile work or stucco, blending different art forms seamlessly to enhance the beauty of architectural interiors.

One of the most defining characteristics of the Persian Mirror Art Style is its ability to transform ordinary rooms into stunning spaces that feel larger and more radiant. The use of mirrors reflects light in multiple directions, creating an atmosphere of luxury and opulence. This style has been widely used in royal palaces, mosques, and important cultural landmarks across Iran.

The precision and creativity of the Persian Mirror Art Style continue to inspire contemporary artists and designers, who incorporate this centuries-old technique into modern architecture, keeping its legacy alive.

Persian Mirror Art Patterns

The intricate geometric designs of Persian mirror art patterns are well-known and often draw inspiration from nature and Islamic artistic customs. Artisans carefully arrange small fragments of mirrors to create symmetrical shapes, such as stars, flowers, and intricate interlocking patterns.

Persian Mirror Work in Chehel Sotoun

These designs not only add aesthetic value but also have symbolic meanings, reflecting the harmony and balance found in nature and the universe. The mirror fragments are placed in a way that reflects light from various angles, creating a dynamic and luminous effect that enhances the beauty of architectural spaces.

A stunning example of these patterns can be seen in the Chehel Sotoun Palace in Isfahan, where the mirror work is particularly remarkable. The palace’s Hall of Mirrors is adorned with delicate and detailed Aina Kari that transforms the room into a shimmering spectacle of light and reflection.

The mirror mosaics in Chehel Sotoun are arranged in floral and geometric patterns, which capture and scatter light, illuminating the space with an ethereal glow. This masterful use of mirror art highlights the exceptional skill of Persian craftsmen and demonstrates how mirror work has been an integral part of Iranian architectural heritage.

Persian Mirror Work

Persian Mirror Work, known as Aina Kari, holds significant value in Persian culture and history, symbolizing beauty, craftsmanship, and artistic innovation. For centuries, this intricate art form has been used to adorn palaces, mosques, and cultural landmarks, representing the opulence and refinement of Persian architecture.

The reflective nature of the mirror work is not only visually striking but also carries deeper symbolic meaning in Persian culture, where light is often associated with spirituality and divine presence. By scattering light in mesmerizing patterns, Persian Mirror Work creates a sense of harmony and serenity, elevating both the aesthetic and spiritual atmosphere of a space.

Its enduring presence in Iran’s most iconic buildings reflects the nation’s deep appreciation for art, craftsmanship, and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage.

Safavid Glass & Mirror

During the Safavid era, glass and mirror work flourished, marking a significant period in Persian decorative arts. Mirrors were initially imported from Europe and became a luxury item reserved for royalty and the elite. During the Safavid period, mirror work symbolized not only wealth and power but also divine light, reflecting the Safavids’ deep spiritual beliefs.

Persian Mirror Art Style

The fragmented mirrors were arranged in geometric and floral patterns, often representing cosmic order and harmony, blending beauty with symbolic meanings. This mirror work became a visual representation of the heavenly realm, illuminating spaces with light that was thought to connect the physical and spiritual worlds.

Last Words

Persian Mirror Art demonstrates the skill and artistry of Iranian craftsmen, combining beauty with cultural and spiritual importance. This intricate art form, which originated from the creative repurposing of shattered mirrors, has evolved over centuries into a symbol of luxury, light, and harmony. Found in some of Iran’s most iconic palaces and religious buildings, Persian Mirror Art not only enhances the architectural beauty of these structures but also reflects the deep-rooted connection between Persian culture, craftsmanship, and the divine. Its enduring presence continues to captivate admirers, ensuring that this unique art form remains an integral part of Iran’s rich cultural heritage.

The Stone Lion of Hamedan, an ancient and iconic monument, is one of the oldest sculptures in Iran, standing as a symbol of the city’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Located on a hill overlooking Hamedan, the lion is believed to date back to the Parthian or Median era, reflecting the skill and artistry of early Iranian civilizations. Though time has weathered the lion, its majestic presence continues to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into Iran’s deep-rooted past and its artistic achievements. Let’s learn more about this historical statue!

About Hamedan Stone Lion Statue

When visiting the Stone Lion Statue in Hamedan, tourists will encounter a relic that stands as a reminder of the city’s ancient past. Perched on a hilltop. While the lion has lost some of its original features due to centuries of exposure to the elements, its robust form and enduring presence still evoke a sense of awe.

The surrounding area offers a panoramic view of Hamedan, making the site not only a historical landmark but also a scenic vantage point for visitors. Travelers can reflect on the monument’s significance, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and connect with a piece of Iran’s cultural history.

Hamedan Stone Lion Statue Meaning

The Hamedan Stone Lion is believed to symbolize strength, protection, and power, representing a guardian figure for the ancient city of Hamedan. Its imposing form reflects the importance of lions in ancient Persian culture, where they often symbolized authority and served as protectors of cities and royal structures.

Hamedan Stone Lion History

The Hamedan Stone Lion, known as Shir-e Sangi, holds a deep historical significance that stretches back over two millennia. It is believed to have been sculpted during the Parthian or Median era, although the exact origins remain a topic of debate among historians. Some accounts suggest that the statue was part of a pair of lions positioned to guard one of the ancient gates of the city.

Others speculate that it might have been erected to commemorate a significant battle or as a funerary monument for a king or a noble figure. Regardless of its original purpose, the lion has withstood the test of time, becoming a symbol of Hamedan’s ancient roots and artistic heritage.

Hamedan Stone Lion Story

Throughout history, the Stone Lion has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, surviving invasions, and changes in ruling powers. The statue was damaged during the Arab invasion of Iran in the 7th century, leaving behind only one of the original two lions. Later, it was rediscovered and restored by local efforts, preserving it as a cultural landmark for future generations.

Today, it remains a point of pride for the people of Hamedan, drawing historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike who are eager to connect with the city’s ancient past and admire this enduring symbol of Iran’s rich heritage.

Hamedan Stone Lion Architecture

The architecture of the Hamedan Stone Lion reflects the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of ancient Iranian civilizations. Carved from a single block of stone, the lion was originally part of a larger architectural structure believed to have stood as a guardian figure at the gates of the city. The sculpture’s design, though now weathered, hints at the Parthian or Median artistic style, characterized by robust and stylized forms.

The lion’s body is bulky and imposing, suggesting strength and power, while its face, though eroded by time, still carries traces of intricate detailing around the mouth and eyes. This attention to detail would have conveyed a sense of majesty and authority to those entering the city, making the lion not only a work of art but also a symbol of protection and dominance.

In its original form, the Stone Lion likely featured more elaborate details, such as clearly defined muscles, facial features, and possibly even decorative carvings that have been lost over the centuries. The statue’s sheer size and weight required significant engineering and architectural skills, demonstrating the capabilities of ancient stone masons in Hamedan. Positioned on a hilltop, the lion’s placement also seems deliberate, allowing it to dominate the landscape and serve as a visible marker from afar.

Hamedan Stone Lion Photos

Today, despite the wear and tear, the lion’s solid form and enduring presence still convey its architectural significance, offering a rare glimpse into ancient Iranian stone carving techniques and the symbolic importance of monumental sculptures in historical cityscapes.

Hamedan Stone Lion Location

The Hamedan Stone Lion is located in the ancient city of Hamedan, situated in the western part of Iran. The statue rests on a hill known as “Lion Hill” or “Kuh-e Shir,” offering visitors a scenic view of the surrounding city and landscape. Its exact location is near the southern entrance of the city, not far from the bustling city center, making it easily accessible for tourists (Location on map).

The site can be reached by traveling to Bu-Ali Sina Street and taking a short walk from there, where visitors will find the iconic Stone Lion amidst a quiet and historic setting. Its prominent position on the hilltop allows it to stand as a visible landmark, drawing tourists to this culturally significant monument.

Hamedan Stone Lion Ticket Price

Visiting the Hamedan Stone Lion is typically free of charge, as it is an open-air monument accessible to the public without the need for an entrance ticket. The statue is situated on a hill in a public area, allowing both locals and tourists to explore the site freely at any time.

As a cultural and historical landmark, it serves as an inviting destination for those looking to experience a piece of Iran’s ancient heritage without the cost of admission. However, visitors may need to budget for transportation or any guided tour services they might choose to enhance their experience.

Nearby Attractions

The area surrounding the Hamedan Stone Lion offers several attractions that highlight the city’s rich historical and cultural legacy. Just a short distance away is the Tomb of Avicenna, the renowned Persian physician and philosopher, which is one of Hamedan’s most iconic landmarks. This beautiful mausoleum, with its towering spire and museum, provides insight into the life and achievements of Avicenna, making it a must-visit for those interested in Persian intellectual history.

Another nearby attraction is the Alavian Dome, an architectural masterpiece from the Seljuk era, known for its intricate stucco work and fine Islamic designs. These attractions, along with the Stone Lion, create a historical circuit that connects visitors to different eras of Iranian history.

Hamedan Stone Lion Statue

Ecbatana, the ancient capital of the Median Empire, is located near the Stone Lion in Hamedan and offers a fascinating glimpse into Iran’s early history. Visitors to the site can explore the remnants of this ancient city, including its impressive walls and archaeological ruins, which once housed kings and served as a political center. With its historical significance and proximity to the Stone Lion, Ecbatana is a must-see attraction for those interested in the ancient civilizations of Iran.

Additionally, the bustling bazaar of Hamedan is located not far from the Stone Lion, offering a vibrant experience for tourists who wish to immerse themselves in local culture. The bazaar is a lively marketplace where visitors can find traditional handicrafts, spices, textiles, and souvenirs, reflecting the city’s rich heritage.

Other nearby attractions include Ganjnameh, a set of ancient inscriptions from the Achaemenid era carved into the rocks, as well as the scenic Abbas Abad Hill, offering a beautiful view of the city and a peaceful retreat. Together, these sites create a diverse experience for tourists, combining historical exploration with cultural immersion.

Last Words

The Hamedan Stone Lion stands as a timeless symbol of the city’s ancient heritage, offering visitors a unique opportunity to connect with Iran’s deep historical roots. From its rich architectural design to its strategic location atop Lion Hill, the statue continues to captivate those who visit, serving as both a cultural monument and a reminder of Hamedan’s significance throughout history.

Surrounded by other important attractions, such as the Tomb of Avicenna and the bustling city bazaar, the Stone Lion provides a gateway to exploring the broader historical and cultural landscape of Hamedan. A visit to this enduring relic is not only a journey into the past but also a meaningful experience that celebrates Iran’s artistic and historical achievements.

Abdoogh Khiar, simply meaning Cucumber Buttermilk in Persian, is a traditional Iranian cold soup usually served in the hot days of summer. The cold soup’s main ingredients include yogurt, cucumbers, mint, and dill. The ancients believed that every season had its own special food. That is, depending on the available ingredients, such as vegetables and ripe fruits of that specific season, the variety of food also changes, and just when the weather starts to warm up, people learn to make cucumber buttermilk or Abdoogh Khiar. For this reason, Abdoogh Khiar brings a lot of memories of summer days for all Iranians. As a popular food consumed mostly in the summer, Abdoogh Khiar is one of the healthiest dishes that can provide you with sufficient fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Abdoogh Khiar Recipe

The Abdoogh Khiar ingredients are very simple and easy to find. All you need to prepare the perfect Persian Abdoogh Khiar Soup are:

• Full Fat Stirred Yogurt or Greek-style yogurt – 2 cups
• White Mint Buttermilk with Thyme (Iranian Doogh) – ½ Liter
• Water and Ice cubes – 2 cups
• White Breakfast Cream – 2 tablespoons
• Cucumber – 2
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Raisins (Optional) – ¼ cup
• Ground Walnuts – ¼ cup
• Chopped and Fresh Fragrant Herbs (Mint, Parsley, Basil, Dill, Tarragon, and Chives) – ½ cup for each herb
• Damask Roses – 2 teaspoons
• Mint (Crushed and Dried) – 2 teaspoons
• Bread of your choice (Dry bread is socked inside the soup when it is ready for serving)

In general, the main vegetables in Abdoogh Khiar are mint, basil, tarragon, chives, and radish, but depending on your taste, the last two may be optional. If you don’t have fresh vegetables, you can also use dry vegetables to prepare cucumber buttermilk soup.

Abdoogh Khiar Soup

Steps to make the delicious Abdoogh Khiar soup:

1. Initial Preparations – To prepare a flavorful cucumber buttermilk soup, you must first prepare its ingredients. Chop the two cucumbers with or without the skin as desired. Then, chop the vegetables and herbs such as mint, parsley, basil, tarragon, and chives, grind the walnuts, and prepare the other ingredients as needed. Choose a large bowl to serve Abdoogh Khiar and place all the ingredients inside it.
2. Preparing the yogurt and the buttermilk – In the second step of preparing Abdoogh Khiar, first, stir the full-fat yogurt until you see a smooth texture. If you wish, you can add two tablespoons of breakfast cream to the yogurt. Adding cream is not mandatory, but it will make the taste of your cucumber buttermilk unique and tasty. Then, add the two cups of water to the yogurt and stir gently.
3. Adding the yogurt to your ingredients – Once you have the ground walnuts, you can add the raisins and salt to the yogurt and cream mixture. Add the chopped cucumbers you cut into pieces earlier, together with the chopped herbs into the rest of the ingredients. Finally, add a glass of mint buttermilk (Mint Persian Doogh) and thyme to the mixture in the buttermilk container and stir until the ingredients are completely mixed.
4. Adding fresh and chopped vegetables to this mixture makes the dish more delicious. You can add onion or chives of your choice, and finally, the ice cubes to the cold soup to refresh your soul on hot summer days. At the same time, if you like, you can add two tablespoons of Ziziphora water to your cucumber buttermilk at the very end. Ziziphora has many properties, and it helps absorb food better and prevent heartburn after meals.
5. Lastly, use dry bread pieces and let them soak for a bit, and now you are ready to enjoy this traditional Persian cucumber buttermilk dish. Bon Appetite!

Abdoogh Khiar Calories and Health Benefits

The nutritional values and benefits of ingredients in Abdoogh Khiar per serving:

Mint is a highly beneficial herb to improves digestive health, prevents infections, reduces allergic reactions, helps brain function, alleviates common cold symptoms, and masks bad breath, decreasing breastfeeding pain. Consuming mint water is typical in Iran to treat an ill digestive system and stomach aches.

Abdoogh Khiar Recipe

Basil can reduce the risk of heart disease and block calcium channels, resulting in lower blood pressure via the eugenol in basil. Using Basil essential oils will aid in lowering your cholesterol and triglycerides. In addition, basils contain magnesium, which improves blow flow by relaxing muscles and blood vessels.

Tarragon, like other herbs and greens with benefits, can help inflammation and pain, reduce blood sugar, and improve sleep cycles. It can also benefit you by improving your appetite and heart health.

Parsley is a true healer! It has a multitude of benefits. Parsley can strengthen the immune system like mint, help and manage diabetes, treat urinary tract infections, improve blood pressure, promote better eyesight and vision, Prevent and treat anemia and iron deficiency, treat fluid retentions, protect your skin, and finally prevent the appearance of kidney stones.

Chives are nutrient greens with low calories. They are rich in vitamins like K, C, and A, as well as folate, calcium, and potassium. Chives’ benefits can include improving mood and sleep, preventing cancer, helping cognitive function, depression, dementia, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease and stroke, eye health, and inflammation.

Yogurt in the Abdoogh Khiar Soup is also a source of calcium and protein for the body and a factor in relieving insomnia at night, so in order for your meal to be low-calorie and low-fat, you can use low-fat yogurt.

Raisins are also a good choice for flavoring this food. Raisins are a medicine for children’s growth and an energizer for the elderly. This nutritious fruit is high in energy, low in fat, and low in sodium, but even though it is high in sugar and calories, due to its high potassium content, it is recommended to not be consumed by people with high blood pressure.

The use of walnuts is also highly recommended because potassium, phosphorus, and folic acid are among its most prominent nutrients. This healthy nut reduces cholesterol in the blood, and by being rich in vitamins, it leads to relief of weakness and fatigue.

Abdoogh Khiar Soup

Iranian cucumber buttermilk is one of the types of cold soups that are used a lot for the summer season and to prevent heatstroke. But its preparation can change depending on the ingredients available at home, and actually, its preparation is a matter of taste.

For example, some people like to know how to make a more sophisticated Abdoogh Khiar soup, but sometimes you may want only plain yogurt and cucumber with only mint and basil. But it is good to follow some tips to have a tasty cucumber Yogurt soup for your family or guests.

Where Did Abdoogh Khiar First Originate From?

The history of Abdoogh Khiar goes back to the city of Shiraz. There are similar dishes to this type of food in many countries like Turkey, Albania, Macedonia, and Armenia. However, cold soups are prepared in these countries with a slight change in ingredients.

Final Word

Abdoogh Khiar, or Cold Cucumber and Yogurt Soup, is a Persian soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, mint, and dill. It’s a refreshing and cold soup that’s perfect for hot summer days. The yogurt gives the soup a creamy texture, while the cucumbers and herbs add a burst of freshness and flavor. This soup is often served as a palate cleanser between courses or as a light and healthy meal option.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran Travel Agency? Check out our Iran tours and Iran food tour.

Iran, a country long known for its ancient civilizations, culture, and history, has spawned many spiritual and prudent poets and philosophers. These wise men left countless valuable books and poems that, even to this day, have gathered millions of readers. Imam Al Ghazali is a cherished philosopher and scholar of the Seljuk dynasty in Persia. By reading the old Persian texts, you might have come across worthwhile sentences or stories that were written by the brightest Persian philosophers. Many of their quotes are used as proverbs or aphorisms in different countries. Imam Al Ghazali created a huge revolution in the science of philosophy and Sufism.

Stay with us to learn more about Al Ghazali and his notable works.

Imam Al Ghazali Biography

Abu Hamed Muhammad bin Muhammad al-Ghazali al-Shafa’i, nicknamed Hujjat al-Islam, Zain al-Din al-Tusi, and Imam Muhammad al-Ghazali, was born in 1058 during the reign of the Seljukian Empire in the city of Tus located in Khorasan Razavi Province northwest of Iran. He was an Iranian theologian, philosopher, scholar, rationalist, and jurist and one of the greatest Sufis of his time.

His father was not a wealthy man. He worked in making wool and selling them in a local market. Al Ghazali, who was known for his intelligence and sharp mind ever since his childhood, began his preliminary education in his hometown with Ahmed Razkani, who was entrusted by his father to learn literary and religious sciences from Razkani. After Razkani’s death, he went to a school in Tus to continue his studies there. Upon finishing school, Imam Al Ghazali went to Gorgan Province for a while and later returned to Tus. He continued studying religious subjects in Tus for another three years.

Imam al Ghazali

He then went to Neyshabur, a city in the northwest of Iran, and participated in the teachings of Imam Al-Harameyn Joveyni. Because of his hard work and dedication in studying these teachings, he was considered one of the elders and expert scholars in a very short time.

After mastering all Islamic sciences, he journeyed to Baghdad to visit the Seljukian minister, Khwaja Nizam al-Mulk Tusi and was welcomed and treated with respect. Al Ghazali had several arguments with the elders of the religious classes of Baghdad; however, he was triumphant by presenting his abundant scientific knowledge. He was also favored by many scholars of that period.

What was the major work of Imam Ghazali?

Al Ghazali gained extraordinary expertise in the field of sciences such as theology, jurisprudence, philosophy, mysticism, ethics, and Islamic principles. He was appointed as a teacher at the school by Khawaja Nizam al-Mulk Tusi, the minister of the Seljuk government, and trained many students.

Imam Al-Harameyn Joveyni, Qazi Abul Fatah Hakim Tusi, Muhammad bin Ahmad Khowari, and Abu Suhail Muhammad bin Abdullah Hafsi were among the teachers of Imam Al Ghazali. Also, Abul Khattab and Ibn Aqeel, one of the elders of the Hanbali school, were also among his students.

Imam Al Ghazali spent all his life studying, teaching, and writing. He went to Syria and stayed there for nearly two years. For some time, Ghazali was a devout person of the Umayyad Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus. Later, he traveled to Jerusalem, yet his love for his homeland brought him back to Tus.

He stayed in Tus for ten years to write the book “Ihya’ Ulum al-Din” (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), which was his most renowned work during his isolation. Imam Al Ghazali decided to step out of his seclusion and visit the city of Neyshabur to start teaching in the Nizamiya School of this city.

Imam al Ghazali Tomb

After obtaining his high academic rank, he was appointed as a professor at the Nizamiya School of Baghdad for four years by Khwaja Nizam al-Mulk Tusi. But sometime later, due to physical illness and his deep doubts caused by his personal studies in Islamic philosophy, Ghazali decided to give up teaching and hand over his position to his brother Ahmad.

While Al Ghazali was around 53 years old, he died in his hometown of Tus on 19 December 1111 and was buried in the ancient town of Tabran in Tus.

Imam Al Ghazali Books

Imam Al Ghazali wrote valuable works in various fields, such as Revival of Religious Sciences and Alchemy of Happiness, which are among the most famous of these works. Al-Ghazali wrote most of his works in Persian and in Arabic. Meanwhile, Al Ghazali explains his thoughts against the opinions of traditional philosophers in his works, along with the presentation of new ideas in philosophy, which led to the formation of strong opposition against him. In these books, we see mentions of what was Imam Al Ghazali’s philosophy like.

The Alchemy of Happiness (Kīmīyā-yi Sa’ādat)

Among the Persian books of Imam Al Ghazali, the Alchemy of Happiness is very valuable. This enjoyable and exceptional book is considered one of the most precious works of the year 1105, which in terms of eloquence of words, smoothness of composition, and lack of artificiality, has no equivalent in the Persian language. The introduction of the book is in four titles: Self-knowledge, God-knowledge, World-knowledge, and the Hereafter.

Incoherence of the Philosophers (Tahāfut al-Falāsifa)

The Incoherence of the Philosophers is a book by Imam Al Ghazali (1110 AD) that criticizes the opinions of philosophers and rejects everyday philosophy. The book is written in Arabic, and Ghazali himself gives a brief but complete and clear outline of the contents and intention of writing the book at the beginning of the book.

Imam al Ghazali Stories

After the short introductory sermon, the book reflects an aspect of the book in criticizing and rejecting the views of typical philosophers. Then, the author includes a general list of twenty issues that he will address in detail in the book with numerous sub-headings.

The Revival of Religious Sciences (Ihya’ Ulum al-Din)

The Revival of Religious Sciences was written during his retirement from teaching in the Nizamiya School in Baghdad. Right after his spiritual transformations and doubts and intellectual riots, and as a result of choosing pilgrimage and abandoning his struggles, and during his many years of travel and residence in Damascus, Jerusalem, and Hejaz. He entrusted the outcomes of his Sufi meditations and scholarly studies to The Revival of Religious Sciences.

Deliverance from Error

In this book, Al Ghazali wrote about his life journeys. Ghazali first rejects the laws of the world, philosophy, and esoteric religion and then mentions the only way to salvation is to follow Sufism. In Deliverance from Error, Ghazali does not seek to mention the detailed arguments in his previous books in connection with the rejection of the theories of philosophers, esotericism. In addition, the arguments have been given in detail in his previous books, such as Incoherence of the Philosophers, etc.

Other books written by Imam Al Ghazali illustrating his perceptions about Islam, Sufism, Philosophy, and the world are The Decisive Criterion for Distinguishing Islam from Clandestine Unbelief, The Eternity of the World, The Condensed in Imam Shafi’i’s Jurisprudence (Al-Wajiz fi Fiqh al-Imam al-Shafi’i), and Disciplining the Soul.

Imam Al Ghazali Quotes

• Knowledge without action is madness and action without knowledge is impossible. A knowledge that does not prevent you from committing sins and does not force you to obey God will not prevent you from the fire of hell on Judgment Day. If you don’t act on your knowledge today and try to make up for the past days, you will be one of those who will say: Oh God! Bring us back to the world to commit the right deeds, and then they reply with Fool! You yourself came from there.

• If you obey lust, the qualities of filth, shamelessness, greed, flattery, miserliness, arrogance, and envy will manifest in you, and if you are subdued, the qualities of contentment, self-restraint, shame, piety, and lack of greed will materialize within you.
• The difference between a believer and a worldly seeker:

A believer is busy with thought and lessons, and a hypocrite is busy with greed and desire.

A believer despairs of everyone except the Most High, and a hypocrite has hope in everyone except the Most High.

A believer will sacrifice wealth for religion, and a hypocrite will sacrifice religion for wealth.

A believer obeys and cries, and a hypocrite commits a sin and laughs.

A believer likes solitary and isolation, and a hypocrite likes to be in a crowd and chaos.

Imam Ghazali Stories

Imam Al Ghazali, as one of the famous scholars and mystic researchers, was also among the leaders in various Islamic sciences, including principles of jurisprudence, theology, philosophy, ethics, mysticism, and other Islamic sciences, and he has written valuable works in each of these sciences. His stories and books are very popular among Iranians, and some of his stories are taught in Iranian schools as moral lessons for children. Surely, by reading his ethical writings, you will be astounded with Al Ghazali’s wisdom and insight.

Final Word

Imam Muhammad Al Ghazali was an Iranian philosopher, theologian, and jurist, as well as one of the greatest men of Sufism of the Seljukian Period. Undoubtedly, Ghazali is a comprehensive scholar of Iranian descent and has authored works in various sciences. Therefore, he is a true representation of a treasure of different sciences to the later generations. Imam Al Ghazali had a high position in the science of philosophy and mysticism, and by presenting new ideas in philosophy, he became a global figure.

A traditional bazaar established more than 600 years ago in the cultural city of Kerman, the historical Kerman Grand Bazaar is one of the national works of Iran and one of the top sightseeing locations of Kerman Province. The Kerman bazaar was built and redeveloped by several Persian rulers; thus, this place holds the unique specialty of each period. Some of the earmarks of the Grand Bazaar of Kerman have made this traditional location stand out among the best Iran bazaars and the world.

The Grand Bazaar of Kerman is a perfect place to purchase traditional souvenirs and tour inside the middle-eastern halls of the bazaar.

About The Grand Bazaar of Kerman

One of the largest provinces of Iran is Kerman, which is located in the heart of the desert in the southeast of the country. The province has seven thousand historical attractions, and 700 works are included in the list of national monuments in Iran. Because of the existence of a large number of attractions in Kerman, this province has been named the fifth historical city of Iran.

The Grand Bazaar of Kerman, also known as Ganjali Khan Bazaar, was inscribed as a national heritage work on 25 May 2001. The bazaar has been active throughout many historical periods. Its architectural style is rich and valuable, with sacred geometry principles used in every corner of the structure. The Grand Bazaar of Kerman is seen as the largest and longest market in Iran and has been the hub for trade, export, and import of the province for a long time.

Ganjali Khan Bazaar

Because the bazaar complex was built on the Silk Road (a network of Eurasian trade routes active from the second century BCE until the mid-15th century), it played a big role in the economic growth of Kerman. Clothes, copper utensils, and all kinds of handicrafts made in Kerman were exported to China and India. In contrast, spices and clothes from abroad were imported into this bazaar.

Ganjali Khan Bazaar

Kerman Grand Bazaar includes different halls and markets. Interestingly, the buildings connected inside the bazaar make up 60% of Kerman’s historical monuments. In each of these markets, you will find several buildings, such as mosques and old bathhouses.

Walking around the Kerman Bazaar Complex and visiting the antique shops glowing in a multitude of colors, from spices and sweets to carpets and traditional utensils, will entice you. The Mesgari market, where the copper utensils are crafted, reflects a long history and common tradition in the Bazaar of Kerman, while the Mozaffari market offers the locals their daily purchases.

The bazaar not only provides high-quality goods and souvenirs for purchase, it also serves as an archeological site. For instance, the tallest windmill located inside the bazaar is a very popular attraction.

The Grand Bazaar of Kerman History

During the reign of Shah Abbas of the Safavid Period, Ganjali Khan ruled the city of Kerman for 30 years. This brought forth many historical buildings seen in Kerman built by his order. For this reason, the Grand Bazaar of Kerman is also called Ganjali Khan Bazaar.

The traditional bazaar of Kerman, along with the entire Ganjali Khan complex, is about 11,000 square meters, and the whole complex was built by a famous Kerman architect named Mohammad Yazdi. The architect was originally from Isfahan, which is why the architectural style of Kerman Bazaar is constructed in the style of Isfahani buildings.

In the beginning, the bazaar was not very large, and gradually, the businesses expanded in the markets, and the retailers of the bazaar decided to expand the markets in line with the formation of the city. Because of this, the Grand Bazaar of Kerman starts right from Arg Square and leads to Mushtaqiye Square.

Kerman Grand Bazaar Architecture

In the past, the Ganjali Khan complex, along with its bazaar, were separated from each other, but with the expansion of the city, these complexes were eventually connected together.

The Grand Bazaar of Kerman Architecture

The structure of Kerman’s traditional market is made up of elements or sections, including the Sera, which is the main and secondary streets or crossings, Timcheh meaning an area in the bazaar with a domed ceiling and a pond in the center surrounded by shops, and Chaharsuq meaning intersection.

Sera, or the main and secondary streets, is a long route in the market, where on both sides, various stores and shops are found, each offering distinguished goods.

When you step into the bazaar, you come across a central courtyard surrounded by traditional stores. If you take a look at the Grand Bazaar of Kerman photos, you will see that in the Grand Bazaar are halls with ceilings dedicated to the exchange of special goods.

These halls and spaces are known as Timcheh and are decorated with unique Persian ornamentations. The Chaharsuq, or the intersection of the two main streets of the market, also boasts a stunning atmosphere bearing the Iranian architecture, which will put you in awe.

The main aspect of The Grand Bazaar of Kerman’s architecture is viewed in its simplicity. The characteristics of its architecture are the repeating formations of the arches in large and small dimensions with regular shapes and symmetry, decorated with blue tiles in some areas.

Oil paintings can still be seen in parts of the ceiling of the bazaar. The exterior part of the bazaar does not have sophisticated works, except for structures such as old Persian wind turbines, mosques, and caravanserais, which also bear a symbolic appearance.

Before the construction of the main building fabric of the bazaar, the row of domes was like the spinal column of the city from the top view. The bazaar was in harmony with the colors of the desert, and only minarets and windmills were spotted from a distance.

Grand Bazaar of Kerman Photos

In addition to being a covered space inside the Grand Bazaar, the traditional shops of Kerman are built in a condensed fashion to have the most shaded area and the least absorption of the sun’s blazing desert heat.

The outside layer on the outer body of the structure acts as an insulator and reflects the radiant heat. The ceiling of the Grand Bazaar is very high, which causes a pleasant airflow inside the halls and Timcheh. Also, the vents of the vaults help with air conditioning and light supply. In some buildings, wind deflectors have been used for air conditioning.

Grand Bazaar of Kerman Opening Hours

The historic Kerman Bazaar complex is open every day from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM., except on Fridays and public holidays.

Available Amenities in the Kerman Bazaar

• Washrooms
• Residence
• Restaurants
• Access to the Internet

Final Word

Kerman, like any other big city in Iran, has a traditional Grand Bazaar located in the heart of the city and is one of the busiest parts of the city. The architectural elements used in the Grand Bazaar of Kerman make it unique worldwide. Kerman market is the longest market in Iran! It seems like it never ends!

From sweets and local breads to organic and natural products such as vegetables and pistachios, you can find anything in the Kerman Bazaar Complex. This place is very historical, and its lively atmosphere is worth visiting. In addition, don’t forget to buy Kerman handicrafts such as traditional shoes and carpets, and above all, Kerman’s famous cumin.

No matter how much we describe the magnificence and beauty and details of the amazing architecture of this market, it is still not enough unless you explore Kerman Grand Bazaar yourself. What has made this bazaar in Iran world famous is that despite the passage of time, it still has maintained its old structure.

Are you planning to travel to Iran & look for an Iran travel agency? Check out our Iran tours. Here’s a free Kerman Virtual Tour for you!