Archive for category: Travel Blog

Tehran, the capital city of Iran, like many commercial cities in the world, is known for its thriving atmosphere where the streets are filled with people coming and going around. Being a historical city, it boasts countless museums, palaces, mansions, and historical neighborhoods belonging to the previous dynasties. With the presence of the Alborz Mountain Range, Tehran also offers the best ski resorts, one of them being an International Ski resort for professional ski racing. These tourist attraction sites, like the popular Azadi Tower and Milad Tower, are considered the Symbology of Tehran. We will introduce you to the top locations of Tehran, or the symbol of Tehran, and their significance to Iranian culture and history.

What Is Tehran Known for?

Selected as the capital for more than 200 years, during the day, the city is one of the most populated areas in the country. Tehran is the heart of Iran and is 730 square kilometers wide, a place where most of the political, cultural, and scientific activities are held and active. It is estimated that Tehran is the fifth most visited city among the other historical cities of Iran due to its recreational, commercial, tourist attraction sites, and many more.

The locations below represent the importance of Tehran to Iran and the world, some of which have been marked in UNSECO, and these fascinating spots range from historical to very modern.

Milad Tower

One major symbol of Tehran is the tallest tower in Iran. From the heights of the Milad Tower, you can observe a stream of passion and energy of the urban life that flows through the streets of Tehran, the lights and colors of the buzzing in the city. The Milad Tower is situated in the northwest of Tehran and is one of the major symbols of the capital city.

This tower was built on a 62-hectare hill and has the highest point in Tehran, which is 435 meters. Inside the tower, you have multiple recreational options such as Zipline and bungee jumping, escape rooms, a rotating restaurant, 6D cinema, Concert halls, museums, children’s playground, paintball, pool and bowling, shopping center, and an observation deck. Milad Tower is an architectural wonder and a masterpiece in Iran. It is known as the sixth tallest telecommunication tower in the world.

Azadi Tower

Another famous symbol of Tehran is Azadi Square, which has always been a valuable monument of Iran. During the Pahlavi dynasty, the Square was a memorial of the glorious celebrations of the King. Azadi Square and Tower is the historical memory of the capital, with intricate architecture and symbolism. The tower is not only popular for its architecture and beauty but also for its name, meaning “Freedom.”

The Azadi Tower is located in the center of the Square and is 45 meters high. It has four floors, and inside the tower, there is a large theatre hall, a cinema, multiple art museums, and other halls for displaying some Iranian inventions.

Tehran Grand Bazaar

A place where you can purchase rare goods and souvenirs, as well as sightseeing historical streets, shops, palaces, and mansions is nowhere but the Grand Bazaar of Tehran. The bazaar was first established during the Safavid Period and is more than one kilometer per square meter.

Each section of the bazaar is used for a specific kind of good, which makes it easy to navigate through this labyrinth of colors and vibrancy. In Tehran Grand Bazaar, you will find almost all types of goods. It also contains popular restaurants serving traditional cuisines and local sandwiches. Since it’s a large area and requires walking for long distances, you might need to rest and dine. The Grand Bazaar opens at 9 am and closes at 6 pm.

Golestan Palace

The Golestan Palace is located inside the Grand Bazaar of Tehran on the main street. It was first built during the Qajar dynasty and is more than 450 years old. The Golestan Palace is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Agha Mohammad Khan Qajar was one of the historical figures who brought this palace into prosperity after his victory over Lotf Ali Khan Zand.

Golestan Palace is a complex illustrating cultural and historical symbols of Iran from the earlier periods. The palace is surrounded by evergreen trees and embraces another mansion called Shams-ol-Emareh. The palace is now used as a museum for exhibiting the relics of that era. The rooms and halls of the palace are also some of the best artworks of the Qajar Period.

Shams-ol-Emareh

Shams-ol-Emareh was one of the largest and tallest mansions in Tehran during the Qajar period and one symbol of Tehran. The building was erected in 1865, and after its completion, Shams ol-Emareh became the symbol of Tehran. Shams-ol-Emareh was the first Iranian building in which a steel frame was used in its construction, which gradually became more common after that.

As mentioned earlier, this mansion was the tallest building in Tehran, and its height is about 35 meters, containing 5 floors. This house was used by Naser Al-Din Shah to sit and have a general view of the city from high above. When entering the mansion, you will come across the rare Persian stucco and mirror work. These ornamentations are so mesmerizing that they will stun you.

Gate of The National Garden of Tehran (Sardar é Bagh Melli)

The National Garden of Tehran was established in Mashgh Square, in the center of Tehran, by the order of Reza Shah Pahlavi, who planned to establish the first public garden of the capital. Unfortunately, the National Garden itself did not last long, and instead, important buildings such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran and the National Library were built in its area.

Currently, only the gate of Tehran National Garden remains, which shines like a precious jewel in the historical center of the country’s capital and is famous as one of the sights of Tehran. The architecture of the gate is a combination of Iranian and European styles that can be seen in the tile work and which was common in that period.

City Theater of Tehran

A place made for theaters and literature is the City Theater building in Tehran. This cultural building is the venue for the important events of the year in Iran’s theater field. In recent years, various parts of the City Theater have been expanded, and the public has been able to use the new facilities.

In addition to the cultural and artistic use of the City Theater, it also holds the significance of the architecture and design of the City Theater building. The building was established around 100 years ago and was a favorite spot for popular poets, actors, and singers in Iran. Today, the city theater is known as one of the most cherished theater centers in Tehran.

Tochal Peak and Ski Resort

There is no place other than Tochal Tehran Resort for spending the weekend and experiencing thrilling activities. Tochal is a paradise with various amenities, which is one of the top entertainment and welfare centers in Iran. Tochal is a fantastic place for hikers and mountaineers to climb up the Tochal Peak. There are stations made for hikers to eat and rest.

By using the Tochal cable car, you can also climb to the top of Tochal and watch Tehran by breathing in the clean air of the peak. Various exciting games, such as sledding, zipline, bungee jumping, escape room, shooting, etc., are found in the Tochal complex.

Dizin Ski Resort

The nature covered with snow and fresh air of The Dizin International Ski Resort is a place of interest for skiers situated around Tehran. At the height of the Alborz slopes, you will find the largest ski resort in Iran and the best ski resort in Tehran, which happens to attract many tourists and athletes from different parts of Iran and the world, people who love skiing and the untouched snow of the Alborz Mountain slopes.

Dizin Ski Resort is still one of the most famous ski resorts in Iran, but it is not the only ski resort in Iran. It is a well-equipped resort used for competitions, ski classes, and snowboarding.

Tehran National Museum

The National Museum of Iran, or the Museum of Ancient Iran, is a place where you will see various archaeological works. The museum is very symbolic to Iran from both the historical and archaeological point of view. Visiting the National Museum, you can see the works from the Islamic era and before.

Works from the Achaemenid period can be seen in the National Museum of Iran, which shows the antiquity and importance of this place. In fact, the works and objects in the museum can be divided into two categories: ancient Iran and the Islamic era. The museum is an important part of Iranian culture and civilization.

Sadabad Palace

Another sightseeing symbol of Tehran is the renowned Sadabad Palace. The palace has an area of ​​300 hectares, and its lush gardens are located in one of the best parts of Tehran. Numerous native and foreign architects and engineers worked hard to build this complex during the Pahlavi and Qajar Dynasties.

The museums of the complex are full of attractions that will take you several hours to visit. you can visit a completely entertaining collection, which has a restaurant, a library, a cinema, a radio station, a booth for taking pictures in Qajar clothes, etc.

Abgineh Museum (Glassware and Ceramic Museum of Iran)

The Glass and Ceramic Museum, located in an antique building belonging to the Qajar dynasty, is a picturesque museum embracing relics of the past. This museum specializes in glass and pottery objects and is one of the most visited Iranian museums. The location of this museum belonged to Ahmad Qawam, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ahmad Shah Qajar.

The works inside this building have great historical and cultural value. For example, glass pipes were discovered in the Chagha Zanbil Ziggurat temple, which dates back to the second millennium BC. This museum has various halls. Abgineh museum is loved by both the locals and foreign tourists.

Oudlajan Historic Neighborhood

Oudlajan is one of the old and original neighborhoods of Tehran from the Qajar period. Although now Tehran, a crowded capital of Iran with its towers and tall buildings, has taken on a different face from the old Tehran. However, in this city, there are also alleys and neighborhoods that by passing through them, you can get a clue of the capital’s past identity.

One of these neighborhoods is called “Oudlajan,” which played a significant role in the esteemed history of this city. Oudlajan is located in the west of Shams ol-Emareh Mansion.

Valiasr Street

Another symbol of Tehran is the Valiasr Street in Tehran, which is the longest street in the Middle East, and starts from the south of the capital in Rahahan Square and extends to Tajrish Square in Shemiranat, one of the northernmost parts of Tehran. Along Valiasr Street, there are many cultural and commercial centers, large public parks, restaurants, and entertainment and tourism places.

The street is famous for its old tall trees and is a perfect spot for photography.

Laleh Zar Street

Laleh Zar Street is another renowned street in Tehran and is the oldest and major street of the capital, which is located in its central area. There were many theaters, restaurants, and cinemas on Laleh Zar Street, and it was known as a symbol of modernity in Iran. The street was formerly called Tehran’s Champs-Elysée Street, which possesses a rich history.

Today, Laleh Zar Street has changed into an electrical appliance exchange, which has modernized the area, but you can still see the age-old features of the area.

Iran Mall

One of the largest shopping centers in the world is located on the outskirts of Tehran, which is more than 669 thousand square meters wide. Iran Mall is an important commercial center of the country. In addition to the numerous stores, it has various amenities and entertainment facilities, such as an amusement park, a cinema campus, a sports complex, and a hotel.

Iran Mall has created several replicas of Iran’s national treasures inside itself. It includes a Jame Mosque, The Mahan Garden, the Didar Garden, a traditional Timcheh, the Jondishapur Library, the Hall of Mirrors, Sherbet Khane, and Iwan Ashraq. Iran Mall also provides an ice rink and musical fountains.

Final Word

Tehran, the capital of Iran, is the largest and most populous city in the country, owning historic monuments and modern structures suitable for all visitors. The city is abundant in antique locations that are yet active. Among these places, the Azadi Tower, as the dominant symbol of Tehran, named itself “Azadi” to represent freedom and peacefulness among the people.

re you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Then read the things to do in Tehran blog and check out our Iran tours.

If you are an individual who shows a deep love for Persian poetry or history, you might have heard about the great Persian poet and Sufi, Shams Tabrizi. He was the spiritual instructor of Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi, also known worldwide as Rumi. Nonetheless, the true identity of Shams Tabrizi is yet unknown and a mystery to historians since he spent most of his days traveling around various lands, but Rumi’s masterful books and poems have revealed bits of Sham’s identity to the world.

Shams Tabrizi Biography

Shams Tabrizi is a very popular historical figure in Persia. His name “Shams,” meaning “the sun” in Arabic and Persian, represents his personality and importance. Tabrizi refers to the city of Tabriz in Iran, where Shams was born. Shams was not only a poet in his time of living but also the most significant figure who changed Rumi’s way of thinking and his path in search of the truth. According to Rumi, Shams was the man who gave life to him, as Rumi defines his journey as being born once again in the same life.

Shams Tabrizi Childhood

Shams Tabrizi, like any other historical figure, was born into a family, lived his life, and finally vanished from this world without a trace. Even though his story still appears as an enigma to many, not knowing his true age or the authentic evidence about where he first stepped into the world of the living and how he died.

According to some historians, Shams Tabrizi was born in 1185 AD in the city of Tabriz, located in the Northwest of Iran. His childhood was very different from the other children around him. Shams was not very fond of going to school but preferred to study and read the books he selected for himself.

Being an incomparable child, his parents often found it difficult to communicate with him since his behavior was completely different from the children in his age. Shams Tabrizi faced many challenges in his life and oftentimes felt alone in the world, unable to communicate with others as no one understood him.

His Spiritual Journey

Therefore, he pilgrimaged to far lands to find people who spoke the language of mysticism and started learning from them. One of Shams Tabrizi’s teachers was Sheikh Abu Bakr Zanbil Baf of Tabriz, in which he taught Shams a lot.

Over the passage of time, Shams Tabrizi reached a high level of mysticism and spirituality where he no longer found the words of Abu Bakr meaningful; thus, once again, he let go of his teacher and continued his pilgrimage.

Ambiguous Identity

Because of his habit of continuous traveling and absence from fulfilling his spiritual journey, Shams Tabrizi’s personality is full of ambiguity and obscurity in all historical works. You will find countless portraits of Shams in various books and artworks, yet these images are mostly an uncertain prediction of his true features.

Shams Tabrizi Death

Just like his identity and life story, how Shams Tabrizi died will always be a mystery to us. However, there are certain estimations about the year of his passing, and some believe he passed away at the age of 63 in 1248 AD.

Shams Tabrizi and Rumi Story

All in all, the story of Shams Tabrizi and Rumi is one of the most magnetizing stories read by millions to this day. The story speaks both about Rumi’s journey, thoughts, and feelings during his change, as well as Shams’ teachings when Rumi was by his side.

In Rumi’s poetry, you often see him calling Shams with diverse titles, which depicts his love and respect for his teacher as he perceived Shams as the true face of God.

Life for Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi as a religious scholar was almost normal and in complete peace. At that time, Rumi was one of the scholars of Fiqh, which is Islamic jurisprudence, hadith (the words of Prophet Muhammed), and other religious education in the city. Rumi’s lectures were always filled with his eager students, enthusiasts, and devotees of Islam.

Perhaps it can be estimated that the turning point of Rumi’s life happened around the year 1240s when he met a wandering and mysterious Sufi named Shamsuddin Tabrizi in Konya, Turkey. It was Shams Tabrizi who was able to introduce Rumi to the deepest and highest levels of mysticism and turned him from a pious religious scholar to a passionate mystic and poet.

At the same time, Shams Tabrizi had dreamt about his mission in Konya that he had to find a scholar. So, he returned from his journey and was eager to convey his spiritual teachings to a student and find the person who would listen to his words of wisdom. Shams entered the city of Konya. Once Shams Tabrizi and Rumi met in the city, Rumi was bewildered by his words and presence. Eventually, he became Shamsuddin Tabrizi’s student, which led him to go through a massive change in his life.

You can learn more about Rumi and his life story by watching our YouTube video.

Most of Rumi’s students and followers did not even consider Shams worthy to keep up with their great teacher and did not even try to hide their jealousy and hatred towards Shams. Devotees of Rumi were afraid that the reputation and credibility of their great Sheikh would be tarnished by the companionship of Shams Tabrizi. But Rumi considered Shams to be the most perfect manifestation of God and expressed his love and devotion to him by composing poems and walking on his path.

Rumi was so shocked and amazed when he met Shams that he willingly gave up teaching in schools and mosques. Shams, the unknown teacher, encouraged the famous Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn to abandon his teachings and transformed him into a different man, where instead Rumi began dancing Sama (the whirling dervish dance of Sufism), which then caused him to also write poetry by his own volition.

What Did Shams Say to Rumi?

We are not confident about the true story of Shams and Rumi’s first encounter because there are many and even contradictory narrations regarding their first encounter. Based on one of the narrations, Shams Tabrizi stops the teachings of Rumi and angers his devotees to ask a question from the great Mewlānā without respecting their customary manners. The surprised and angry students heard the question from Shams in that manner asking: Was Prophet Muhammad superior to Bayezid Bastami?

Rumi is completely confused by this question. “Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is the head of all prophets. How can you compare Bayazid Bastami to him?” Rumi asks.

Shams asks again: You are pure and pious from what we know about you. But isn’t my dignity more significant than anything else?

Shams claimed Bastami had a higher spiritual position than Prophet Muhammed.

Rumi is surprised by the depth of the question. He immediately descends from his seat and finally answers that Muhammad is greater because Bastami had stopped at some point on his holy journey. While the way for the prophet is always open.

Shams Tabrizi questioned his beliefs further, and from then on, Rumi was attracted by the words and fascinated by the personality of this wandering mystic. From that day on, the two spent long hours alone with each other, learning the words of wisdom. Rumi saw the perfection and originality of a human being in Shams Tabrizi. Shams freed Rumi from the materialistic ties of the world and challenged the customs and beliefs that this famous scholar strictly adhered to.

Forty Rules of Love of Shams of Tabriz

“Forty Rules of Love” is the original name of a novel by Elif Shafak, which was translated into Persian as “Mellat-e Eshgh”. In this book, the forty rules of Shams Tabrizi are quoted from the character of Shams.

On the other hand, these rules are of Sufism and finding God through love and devotion, which were presented to Rumi by the great Sufi of the 7th century of the Islamic calendar, that is, Shams Tabrizi. In addition, these forty rules can help the lost individuals of the present age. This book represents the way of spiritual travel, a journey inside and outside.

“The Third Line,” is the title of another book about Shams Tabrizi written by Dr. Naseruddin Sahib al-Zamani, portraying Shams Tabrizi’s personality, words, and thoughts. The book contains the dialogues between Shams and Rumi and single quotes by Shams Tabrizi.

Shams Tabrizi Quotes from the Forty Rules of Love

Rule 1: The way we perceive God is a direct reflection of how we see ourselves. If God brings to mind mostly fear and blame, it means there is too much fear and blame welled inside our hearts. We are also full of love and compassion if we see God as loving and compassionate.

Rule 3: You can study God through everything and everyone in the universe because God is not confined to a mosque, synagogue, or church. However, if you are still in need of knowing where exactly His abode is, there is only one place to look for him: in the heart of a true lover. No one will live after seeing Him, and no one will die after seeing Him. Whosoever finds Him will remain in His company forever.

Rule 4: Intellect and love are made of different materials. Intellect ties people in knots and risks nothing, but love dissolves all tangles and risks everything. Intellect is always cautious and advises, ‘Beware too much ecstasy’ whereas love says, ‘Oh, never mind! Take the plunge!’ Intellect does not easily break down, whereas love can effortlessly reduce itself to rubble but treasures are hidden among ruins. A broken heart hides many treasures.

Rule 10: East, west, south, or north makes little difference. No matter what your destination, just be sure to make every journey a journey within yourself. If you travel within, you will travel the whole wide world and beyond.

Rule 13: There are more fake gurus and false teachers in this world than the number of stars in the visible universe. Do not confuse power-driven, self-centered people with true mentors. A genuine spiritual master will not direct your attention to himself and will not expect absolute obedience or utter admiration from you, but instead will help you to know and to appreciate your Inner-self. True mentors are as transparent as glass, ‘They let the light of God pass through them’.

Shams Tabrizi Poems

Shams Tabrizi did not enjoy writing and preferred speaking in his own words. The works left in the name of Shams are taken from the sayings of Shams in gatherings, which were later collected and written by Rumi and his entourage.

In the collection of Shams Tabrizi’s quotes, the book contains questions, answers, and discussions that were exchanged between Shams and his students. These dialogues have an interesting story in their hearts that Rumi taught to his students during his association with Shams Tabrizi and after him. His disciples collected them and wrote them down. The subject of these stories is the personality and life of Shams Tabrizi in Konya, his relationship with Rumi, and the anecdotes that Shams taught Rumi through them.

Divan-i Kabir, also known as Divan-i Shams and Divan-i Shams-i Tabrizi, are Rumi’s works attributed to Shams Tabrizi. The Divan-i Shams-i Tabrizi is one of the works of Mawlānā Jalāl-ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi, which he registered the book under the name of Shams Tabrizi.

Shams Tabrizi Miracles

One day, Shams entered the school of Konya, where Rumi was reading his books. He asked Rumi, who had some other books placed next to him: “What are these?”

Rumi answered: “These are the books of Quotes and Sayings of the Prophet.”

“What are you doing with these?” Shams said and then threw the books into the nearby pond.

“Oh Dervish, some of these books are my father’s souvenirs and the unique and rare copies,” Rumi said.

Shams Tabrizi dipped his hand in the water and took the books out of the pond, but the books did not appear to be wet at all. They were as intact as they were before being thrown into the pond.

Rumi asked with surprise: “What is this secret?”

Shams answered: “This is the secret that you are not aware of.”

With this, Rumi’s nature changed, and he abandoned the lessons he taught and faced madness, then was born again. He achieved an esoteric experience that not everyone was able to understand.

Final Word

Mewlānā Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhi, known as Rumi, is one of the most famous poets of Iran. During his 68 years of living, Rumi met great people such as Mohaghegh Tirmezi, Sheikh Attar, Kamaluddin Adeem, and Mohiuddin Arabi and learned a lot from them, but no one was as influential in his life as Shams Tabrizi. Furthermore, the stories about Shams Tabrizi are not proven to be fully authentic, and all the information we have about his life are the poems that Rumi has written in his epic books.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Check out our Iran tours and feel free to contact us.

In the heart of the Middle East lies one of the most historical countries in the world, embracing countless traditional bazaars with eccentric Persian architecture. Iran is popular for its diverse landscapes and tourist archeological sites, and in some of these historical locations, you can still come across men and women making a living in these conventional bazaars. The Grand Bazaar of Sanandaj is located in Kurdistan Province in Iran. This bazaar has long been used for trade and welcomes countless visitors annually. You will find the most authentic Iran souvenirs right in the Grand Bazaar of Sanandaj.

About The Grand Bazaar of Sanandaj

This eccentric grand bazaar in the city of Sanandaj is one of the tourist attraction sites of the city. Every year, people from around the country and the world travel to Sanandaj to take a chance to see its magnificent landscape and mountainous forests, accommodate in traditional rental Kurdish homes, participate in the local festivals and Kurdish dance, visit the grand bazaar of Sanandaj, etc.

Why should you visit the Grand Bazaar in Sanandaj?

Amongst the many bazaars of Iran, the Bazaar of Sanandaj is another unique and historic bazaar built with walls and ceilings made of materials from hundreds of years ago. This market has been a thriving spot for numerous merchants and businessmen for years.

The Sanandaj bazaar photos will show you the vibrancy and life felt in the halls of the bazaar. Every shop holds thousands of colorful goods, from fruits, sweets, and spices to local fabrics, carpets, porcelain dishes, and copper utensils. In 1996, the Grand Bazaar of Sanandaj was registered as a national monument in Iran’s national heritage list.

Sanandaj Bazaar History

According to the experts, the establishment of the Bazaar of Sanandaj dates back to the period of Shah Safi of Persia from the Safavid dynasty and during the rule of Soleyman Khan Ardalan, the governor of Kurdistan province in 1637-1657, who also founded the city of Sanandaj.

Sanandaj was a small village in the first half of the 11th century during the Safavid rule over Iran. In the same years, Soleyman Khan Ardalan was appointed to Kurdistan by the Safavid government. He ordered the expansion of the village of Sanandaj (which the Kurds call Seneh) and altered it to a larger city.

This change was done in May 1667 during the reign of Shah Safi Safavi. At the same time, with the expansion of Sanandaj, Ardalan Khan also built the bazaar and enriched it with goods that were brought from Kurdistan or surrounding cities and even outside the border.

Therefore, the Sanandaj Bazaar, unlike other historical bazaars of Iran, was built all at once and did not expand gradually. The government fortress was one of the other structures that was built during the rule of Ardalan Khan and was rebuilt during the period of his successor, Amanullah Khan, and the market also became more prosperous.

Many of the historical monuments of the city of Sanandaj are the remains of the Ardalan government, which are now known as historical attractions of Kurdistan. Some of the shops in this bazaar still operate just as they were 100-plus years ago since the owners have preserved the old structures and avoided modernization.

Sanandaj Bazaar Architecture

The Sanandaj Bazaar, being one of the oldest bazaars in the city, you can see traces of Persian architecture. The Sanandaj Traditional Bazaar is covered in arched ceilings and domes made of red bricks. The materials used, as well as the method of construction, clearly show us the age of the bazaar. Inside the market, the shops are called “Hojreh,” and the interior structures range from modern to very old since some of them have been renovated.

The bazaar is made of materials, such as stone, clay, and brick. When you step inside the bazaar of Sanandaj, like the traditional bazaar of Isfahan, it looks like a large rectangle from above. It does not have a linear tunnel like most bazaars; it is as if you are walking around a large rectangle containing several gates.

Initially, the bazaar had four gates, but today only three gates remain. The design of the bazaar is rectangular, with arches as roofs shielding the top section of the shops.

Numerous domes can be seen on the roof of the bazaar. In total, it includes 30 passageways and 280 historical Hojreh, or shops. Over the years, about 400 shops have been built in the side parts of the traditional bazaar.

During the Pahlavi dynasty, with the construction of Enghelab Street in this area, the market was divided into two sections called Asif and Sanandaji, which occupied the south and north. Moreover, several large structures of the Bazaar of Sanandaj were destroyed during the construction of Enghelab Street, but the rest of the bazaar remains intact and solid, and this section is known as the favorite center for tourists.

Best Time to Visit Sanandaj Traditional Bazaar

Kurdistan province has pleasant weather conditions throughout the year and is a distinguished location in terms of natural and touristic attractions. The lush nature of the province is as though you are visiting an art gallery with paintings of all four seasons.

The warm colors of autumn, the white-painted landscape of winter, the vibrant flowers blooming in spring, and the gentle heat of the sun in summer, will truly awaken your spirit during your stay. It is one of the few cities in Iran that can be visited in any season.

Because the city of Sanandaj is located in the Zagros mountains, it has a favorable climate. Sanandaj Bazaar is a unique attraction of the city.

In addition to shopping centers and shops, the bazaar itself has a special traditional atmosphere. Since the bazaar has a covered roof, all seasons are suitable to visit it. However, for a more pleasant time to visit the bazaar, spring and summer are said to be the best.

Visiting Hours of Sanandaj Bazaar

You can visit the Sanandaj traditional Bazaar every day except Fridays from 8 am to 7 pm. Keep in mind that some shops are closed from noon to 4 pm. No entrance fees are required for shopping in the bazaar.

Sanandaj Bazaar Address

To access this market, which is located in the center of the city and on the eastern side of Enghelab Square, that is, on both sides of Enghelab Street (Baharmast). You can easily go to Ferdowsi Street from any part of the city by bus or taxi.

Bazaar Location

You will find the large entrance and market entrances on Ferdowsi Street. Note that the closest bus station to the market is Nasser Khosrow station.

Final Word

Sanandaj is famous for its many historical and natural attractions in Iran. The Grand Bazaar of Sanandaj is a place where you can encounter new tastes and aromas with glowing colors of local spices and other goods. Built and established by the governor of Kurdistan, the bazaar is still active and is an important place for businesses and transactions.

This opulent bazaar represents the cultural symbols and identity of the people of Kurdistan, and like other traditional bazaars of Iran, it is regarded as a hub for economic and cultural works.

Are you planning to travel to Iran? Check out our Iran tours. Read about the top things to do in Kurdistan.

Isfahan is a city of rich history and the golden capital of delicious souvenirs and eye-catching architecture. The city of Isfahan is situated in the central part of Iran and it is blessed with many cultural and historical sites where one can visit them all and never get tired of the things that Isfahan has to offer. In this article, we will explore the Armenian Quarter of Isfahan. Yes, you heard it right. The New Julfa Isfahan map stretches into the old parts of Isfahan. Let’s get into it.

The Armenian Quarter of Isfahan

New Julfa, also called by its nickname the Armenian Quarter of Isfahan, is a distinct and unique part of the city that provides a great opportunity to explore Isfahan deeply. This neighborhood is famous for its style and architecture and is considered the neighborhood of Armenians since a lot of Christians, especially Armenians, have lived in this unique part of Isfahan.

This amazing neighborhood is also famous in the history book of Isfahan; it was home to many unique houses, such as the first tea house, the first gallery house, and the first modern school. Interestingly, this neighborhood also carries the birth location of classical music and the first lemonade-making factory.

New Julfa Isfahan Map

Situated in the southern part of Zayandeh Rud River, the neighborhood of New Julfa is a popular location and some say that it is the European part of Isfahan. This area is between the Julfa Hotel, Julfa Square, and Vank Church. It is one of the busiest routes and is very crowded during the evenings.

If you want to go to New Julfa Isfahan, you can use public transportation options like taxis and buses. To reach the New Julfa Isfahan Map, first, you should go to Hakim Nezami Street, and then you will find the New Julfa easily.

New Julfa Isfahan History

New Julfa Isfahan’s History dates back to 400 years ago when the government of Iran led by King Abbas Safavi ordered to evacuation of a city and moving all of its people to a new location named Julfa, which is today situated in the country of Azerbaijan. It was a rough winter for these people, many of whom were Armenians.

So, the next thing that King Abbas Safavi did was that he moved all of Armenians to Isfahan and other provinces to provide them with a better life. He even donated land to them to show his goodwill.

New Julfa Map and Streets

New Julfa Map is filled with beautiful streets that give a cool vibe, and exploring them provides a great chance to enjoy your trip more. One of the famous streets of New Julfa Map is Khaqani Street, which is ideal for having a tour. There are a lot of stores, souvenir shops, and art galleries on this street.

The Lat Astra Alley is another lovely location in New Julfa Map. It is a safe spot for walking and exploring the architectural styles of the neighborhood and visiting different cafes. This alley is crowded at night and has a different, lovely vibe.

Architectural Style

The architectural style of New Julfa Isfahan is one of its key highlights. This neighborhood, showcasing a lot of classical and beautiful houses, is a must-visit destination for tourists. You can explore the alleys and streets and even see old palaces and houses, which are a masterpiece at one glance.

Walk on the pavements of New Julfa, look at the details of houses, and enjoy the fresh air in this lovely area of Isfahan. If you love these features of New Julfa, you won’t even get tired, and you want to come back to this neighborhood more.

Churches of Isfahan New Julfa

One of the main traits of Isfahan city are Churches of Isfahan New Julfa, which shows the importance of Christianity for Armenians. There are more than ten churches in New Julfa, and the most important one is named Vank Church. Vank Church was built during the rulership of King Abbas II and is known for its arches, great walls, and interior art.

Today, the church also has a museum, which is open to tourists and locals. Other important Churches of Isfahan New Julfa are Serkis Church and Bay Lahm Church, both of which are historical sites and have significance for Armenians. These churches are known for their detail and architecture. Interestingly, the Bayt Lahm Church is among the 23 top churches in the world in terms of beauty.

Cafes of Isfahan New Julfa

In its little alleyways and cool-looking streets, you will see different cafes and restaurants, each with a unique decoration and design. If you have never been to New Julfa, we must say that this place is filled with nice cafes and restaurants.

Hermes Italian Café, Bahar Narenj Café, Ani Café, Setare Café, Ashoob Café, and Firooz Café are some of the most famous spots that are popular and located within the New Julfa. You can try out delicious items and interact with the local people of New Julfa to have a memorable experience.

Also, exploring each of the cafes and restaurants in New Julfa will awaken a feeling of nostalgia in you. So, make sure to check out some of these excellent cafes and restaurants at New Julfa Isfahan.

Best Time to Visit

New Julfa Isfahan is an ideal spot if you want to hang out with your friends or make great memories with your family. Visiting New Julfa Isfahan is ideal at any time of year. However, it is mostly recommended to visit this location during spring when the weather is milder.

Moreover, if you want to visit churches, art galleries, historical houses, and museums, it is recommended to visit during the daytime when they are open. But, if you want to enjoy the cool vibes of the location, explore cafes and restaurants, and meet new people, visiting New Julfa during the evening and early night is ideal.

New Julfa Isfahan on Christmas

Christmas is indeed unique in each part of the world, so it is in the Armenian Quarter of Isfahan, New Julfa. When Christmas arrives, this neighborhood goes into Christmas mode, and you will notice many stores and shops with a Christmas decoration and feel the joy and happiness in the air.

Playing bells of churches, dancing, and playing happy music are some of the things that people do at New Julfa during Christmas in Iran. You will also notice delicious foods and sweets that are baked by local people in this neighborhood. Indeed, Christmas is unique in the New Julfa and is an ideal time to visit this Armenian area with your family.

Final Words

New Julfa Isfahan’s history dates back to many years ago when this city was home to many cultures and societies from all around the world and was known as the capital of Iran. The Armenian Quarter of Isfahan is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to spend great times with their friends and family. The New Julfa Map includes many cafes and churches where tourists and visitors can explore and enjoy their moments in this beloved historical city.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Please read things to do in Isfahan and Check out our Iran tours.

As we approach the end of Ramadan, the holy month of Muslims, we draw nearer to the celebration of Eid al Fitr 2024. The final days of Ramadan hold immense significance for Muslims as they intensify their worship and prayers in hopes of making the most of their remaining opportunities for spiritual growth during this period.

Furthermore, Eid al-Fitr 2024 is on the horizon, marking a special time of global celebration among Muslims that commences after the final day of Ramadan. In this article, we explore Eid al-Fitr in greater depth and the rituals that Muslims practice during this event.

What Is the Eid al Fitr Celebration?

The end of the Ramadan month and the start of Shawal month is marked by this festival. In other words, Eid al Fitr is celebrated at the end of Ramadan, during which Muslims acknowledge their discipline and willingness to help others.

Eid al Fitr is a widely celebrated festival among followers of Islam and is observed around the world in various countries. This celebration is accompanied by various traditions, each of which holds significance and includes meaningful acts.

Eid al Fitr History

One of the most significant religious holidays for Muslims is Eid al-Fitr, also known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.” The history of Eid al Fitr dates back many centuries, and according to the Quran and other Islamic texts, it was first celebrated in the year 624 CE. This was when Muslims migrated from Mecca to Medina.

The establishment of fasting during Ramadan is believed to have been a message from God to the Prophet Muhammad. Upon completion of the Ramadan month, Muslims celebrate Eid as a way to appreciate themselves and acknowledge the happiness of finishing this period.

Eid al Fitr has a deep connection with the historical context of the migration of the Muslim community and the Prophet Muhammad, during which they faced many challenges that tested their faith and devotion.

Following their migration to Medina, the community thrived, and the first Eid al-Fitr was celebrated there, making it a significant religious holiday for Islamic communities around the world with a long history.

Eid al Fitr Meaning

The significance of the name Eid al Fitr is to highlight the joyous celebration marking the end of Ramadan. The Arabic word “Eid,” pronounced as “eed,” means celebration and festival. This means that the word “Eid” signifies an important festivity. By combining “al-Fitr” with Eid, we can indicate the significance of this time for Islamic communities. Furthermore, “al-Fitr” is also derived from the Arabic language and means “breaking the fast.”

Main Traditions

It’s worth noting that there are over 2 billion Muslims all over the world who observe Eid al Fitr. Having recognized the importance of this festival, it’s time to discover the most prevalent customs of Eid al-Fitr that are observed in most Islamic societies.

The first day of Eid al Fitr in 2024 begins with a unique congregational prayer called Eid Salah, which is best performed in a mosque or an open space and led by an imam. This tradition represents unity and appreciation.

Exchanging gifts is a common practice during Eid, especially among family members and elders. It’s a way to show love, and the type of gifts exchanged can vary between communities. Gifts may include toys, clothes, money, or other items.

Food is a crucial part of Eid al-Fitr celebrations. It’s a time to enjoy delicious meals and share in the joy of the occasion with family and friends. Traditional dishes, sweet treats, and desserts are often served, depending on the culture.

Helping the community is an essential principle of Islam, and giving to those less fortunate is a significant part of Eid al Fitr. Muslims are encouraged to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of obligatory charity, before the Eid prayer.

Eid al Fitr 2024, Date and Time

Eid al-Fitr 2024 is approaching very quickly, almost as fast as a blink of an eye. As a result, the holy month of Ramadan will soon come to a conclusion. It is interesting to note that the exact date of Eid al Fitr 2024 is not determined far in advance but Eld al Fitr 2024 is likely to be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10, or Thursday, April 11.

Many religious leaders in different countries base the date of Eid on the sighting of the Eid crescent moon, which is announced at the appropriate time and date. Sometimes, if the sky is too bright, or if the moon sighting is obstructed by clouds, it may be delayed by one day. It is important to note that Muslims and individuals worldwide are not permitted to fast on Eid al-Fitr, as it is regarded as a sin.

Last Word

Eid al Fitr is a significant holy period for Muslims, marking the end of Ramadan and serving as a joyful celebration that brings families and friends together. It represents the start of a new chapter in our lives, where we strive to grow both spiritually and mentally. The festival is deeply rooted in various cultures and celebrated by Muslims all over the globe, symbolizing unity and reflecting purity.

Are you planning to travel to Iran and looking for an Iran travel agency? Check out our Iran tours and Religious Tours to Iran. Maybe the Iftar article is also interesting for you.