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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.

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.

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.

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.

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Iran may be a country unknown to many, but this Middle Eastern land is carpeted with countless archeological monuments bearing rich history and culture, which will bewilder any visitor. The Soltaniyeh Dome is one of Iran’s treasured ancient sites situated in the scenic Zanjan province in the northwest of Tehran. Zanjan has always been a captivating place for sightseeing antique relics of Iran with a blend of its pleasant climate and nature. You will find traditional bazaars, mosques, and several old buildings belonging to previous dynasties.

The Soltaniyeh Dome is worth seeing because it is the world’s third tallest dome after the Hagia Sophia and Santa Maria, and it also bears the title of the largest brick building in the world.

About the Soltaniyeh Dome

What is the largest dome in Iran? It certainly is the popular Dome of Soltaniyeh of Zanjan province. This brick monument is Zanjan’s most visited site in Soltaniyeh city, and if you are interested in antiquity, its colossal structure will surely grab your attention. The Soltaniyeh Dome is a precious national heritage of Iran and is marked on the list of Iran UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Soltaniyeh Dome History

In the past, the dome of Soltaniyeh, located in Soltanieh city, was a vast plain and was used for recreation and hunting. During the rule of “Arghun Khan,” the fourth ruler of the Mongol Empire’s Ilkhanate, he ordered the construction of the Soltaniyeh city for his residence. This city was the third capital of the government after Maragheh city, situated in the East Azerbaijan province of Iran and Tabriz city during the Ilkhanid period.

Dome of Soltaniyeh was built as a tomb in the years 1302 to 1312 AD and during the reign of Sultan Mohammad-e Khodabande (known as Öljaitü), the eighth Ilkhanid ruler. This patriarchal ruler followed his father’s religion, which was shamanism. Shamanism is the name of a line of traditional beliefs in some primitive and prehistoric tribes, which still has many followers around the world today.

After the passing of some years, Oljaitu converted to Christianity following his mother and changed his name to Nicholas (Nicolo). Shortly after his conversion, Oljaitu fell ill and changed his name to “Khodabande” because there was a superstition among Oljaitu paternal tribes (Mongols).

Later, Oljaitu became a Muslim under the influence of one of his wives, Allama Hali, and his minister, Sheikh Fazlullah. After visiting the tombs of Hazrat Ali and his son Imam Hussain, he converted to the Shia Muslim religion and named himself Sultan Mohammad-e Khodabande. He built the Soltaniyeh Mausoleum (Now Dome of Soltaniyeh) to move the burial places of Hazrat Ali and Imam Hussain to this building in Soltaniyeh. However, Sultan Muhammad-e Khodabande did not succeed in doing this due to the opposition of some Shia scholars, and finally, he used the dome of Soltaniyeh as his own tomb.

Rehabilitation of the Soltaniyeh Dome

The Soltaniyeh Dome was restored and renovated by an Italian group in 1967, a project that continued until 1978. It is believed that the restoration process of this monument was one of the most delicate and complex restoration projects. Undoubtedly, the dome of Soltaniyeh ages more than 700 years, a magnificent structure with unique architecture; therefore, it required good maintenance and care.

Dome of Soltaniyeh Architecture

The Dome of Soltaniyeh is seen as one of the most intact ancient buildings in Iran, made by very skilled architects. Its intricate architecture is among the reasons for tourists to journey to this province and sightsee this magnificent structure.

What Type of Architecture Is the Soltaniyeh Dome?

The plan of the dome of Soltaniyeh is rectangular on the ground floor and first floor. The plan of the building on the second and third floors is octagonal. The style of the facade of the building is more compatible with Seljuk architecture (Seljuk Period), and there are signs of using Islamic architecture in the structure of the building, such as the installation of 110 steps in the building (synonymous with the name of Ali in Abjad alphabets).

In addition, the most important principle observed in the architecture of the building, which is the extension of the line of symmetry of the dome of Soltaniyeh, is towards the Qibla, and this also indicates Islamic elements used in the construction of the monument.

The material used in the main body of the dome of Soltaniyeh and the entire building is brick, and only in the part of the dome is a coating of turquoise and azure tiles in a mosaic style. The mortar used in the building is made with a mixture of plaster and a small amount of lime.

Interestingly, the architecture of the dome of Soltaniyeh inspired Gothic architecture. Filippo Brunelleschi, a famous Italian architect and an engineer of the fifteenth century, and Lorenzo Ghiberti, an Italian sculptor, architect, and writer, gained inspiration and used a similar style from the dome of Soltaniyeh while designing and constructing the dome of the Santa Maria del Fiore church in Italy (about 100 years after the construction of the Soltaniyeh dome).

Some researchers believe that the architecture of the Bastami Complex, which is the tomb of Mahmud Ghazan (the most powerful Ilkhanid ruler), was modeled after the construction of the dome of Soltaniyeh. The building itself is influenced by the design of the Soltan Sanjar Mausoleum (the second Seljukian ruler). Although the plans of those tombs are square, the dome of Soltaniyeh is octagonal.

Architects of the Dome of Soltaniyeh

An architect, Khwaja Rashiduddin Fazlullah Hamdani, designed the Zanjan dome of Soltaniyeh for Mohammad-e Khodabande inspired by the tomb of his brother, Mahmud Ghazan. Some people claim that the architect was Seyyed Ali Shah, while others deny it. But at least what is known is that several thousand workers were used to build this brick building until it was finally finished after six years. It took three years to decorate the building with delicate ornamentations and inscriptions.

How tall is the Soltaniyeh Dome?

The height of the building is 48.5 meters and the diameter of its inner opening is 25.5 meters. The upper part of the building is surrounded by rooms and pavilions.

Inside the Dome of Soltaniyeh (Islamic Ornamentations)

Inscriptions of the Dome of Soltaniyeh are the inscriptions of Quranic verses, which can be seen in different parts of Soltanieh Dome and on all its walls. Among these Quranic decorations, we can see Surah “Fatah” on the ground floor, Surah “Ayat al-Kursi” above the main entrance door to the mausoleum in the eastern part of the building, Surah “Ikhlas” (Tawheed) inside the porch of the first floor, verses from Surahs Al-Anbiya, Al-Momonun and Al-Mulk in the bodies.

Inscriptions with the names of Muhammad and Ali and a logo called “Ittihad,” which means Unity, are on all the walls of the first and second floors. Other inscriptions engraved with six times “Glory be to Allah,” five times the name of Prophet Muhammad, and five times the name of Hazrat Ali, Muhammad Rasulullah can be found inside the monument.

Dome of Soltaniyeh Facts

Looking at the plan of the dome of Soltaniyeh photos, you will notice the Soltaniyeh monument is octagonal. This building also had eight doors, eight porches, and eight minarets. The real reason behind using the number eight in the construction of the building is not known because this number is not considered sacred like numbers seven or twelve.

However, some researchers consider the reason for this was the possibility of creating a sundial. Others believed that the use of the number eight was for strengthening the structure. Some people also believed that the dome of Soltaniyeh was built in an octagonal form because it was inspired by the eight gates of heaven.

Sundial of the Dome of Soltaniyeh

The sundial of the dome of Soltaniyeh helped to determine the time for the religious duties of the city’s residents. In the past and now, for Muslims, knowing the time and performing religious duties and prayers is of high importance. For this reason, during the construction of the dome of Soltaniyeh, a sundial was installed in the skeleton of the building so that the residents of the city could tell the time accurately using the sunlight.

Soltaniyeh Dome sundial works in such a way that if the light shines through the hole of the main dome, it is the time of Adhan (Islamic call to prayer). The light that shines through the large windows acts as the large hour hand, and the light from the small windows indicates the minutes. At night, the stars seen from these windows helped people to tell the time.

The Mystery of the Cellar in the Dome of Soltaniyeh

There is a belief that many Mongols and patriarchal rulers were buried in the cellar with everything they had, such as gold and jewels, after their death. Due to this, it was thought that Sultan Muhammad-e Khodabande was buried there, but no grave was found there during the excavations.

Dome of Soltaniyeh Reviews

Fortunately, reviews regarding this valued ancient monument have been very positive. Receiving such wonderful feedback from all the excursionists of the world has made this spot a special location for the people of Zanjan. Some visitors mentioned the easy access to the dome and the grandeur of the location during their visit, as well as the magnetizing architecture of the Soltaniyeh Dome.

Dome of Soltaniyeh Location

The building is located in the heart of Soltaniyeh city and in the middle of Soltaniyeh citadel. To visit, you must first travel to the historical city of Zanjan and then drive from Zanjan to Qazvin. After traveling a distance of about 30 kilometers, choose the road on your right and enter Soltaniyeh Road. You will find the Dome of Soltaniyeh in the beautiful city of Soltaniyeh (Location on map).

Final Word

If you are traveling to Zanjan, one of the important attractions that awaits you on this trip is the Dome of Soltaniyeh. This dome, which is a relic of Ilkhanid period architecture, is the tomb of Oljaitu and has attracted many sightseers who are fond of ancient sites. This dome is the largest brick dome in the world and the third largest dome in the world, and what is interesting is that the architecture of this building inspired the construction of the Santa Maria Church in Italy, the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, and the Taj Mahal in India.

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

Traveling and adventure have always been part of human life. Whether the purpose of your trip is business or pleasure, you move from one place to another as a visitor exploring a different location. Iran has been recognized by millions of travelers who visit this Middle Eastern country for both its rich history and touristic sites as well as work purposes. Over the years, Iran has made great changes for its guests by establishing advanced amenities and renovating several areas in the country for a better experience. Being recorded as one of UNESCO’s top 10 countries possessing antique relics, Iran has had a successful tourism industry for many years. But these questions remain: can tourists travel to Iran? And does Iran have tourism?

Stay with us to find out more about Iran’s Tourism industry.

Tourism in Iran

Tourism is generally considered recreational travel. However, in recent years, tourism includes any travel that allows a person to leave their work or life environment, even for business.

Can Tourists Travel to Iran?

In today’s era, the tourism industry is known as one of the basic foundations of the economy in all countries of the world, including Iran. Iran has a great capacity and a bright future in the tourism industry.

Iran has become an attractive destination for tourists who plan to travel to North Africa and the Middle East due to its ability to develop, improve its infrastructure, and face progressive changes. The World Tourism Organization and UNESCO also consider Iran to be one of the top 10 countries in the world in terms of tourist arrivals due to its many tourist attractions.

According to recent reports, with the boom in Iran’s tourism industry, the employment rate of this industry has also increased in Iran. In 2020, 1.2 million people were active in Iran’s tourism industry. In 2021, this figure increased to 1.9 million people, with a growth of 700,000 people, which is equivalent to 7.6%.

Why does Iran have a high potential for Tourism? Iran is a country with countless natural and cultural attractions, which have great potential in this industry due to its climatic, cultural, historical, and religious attractions, as well as having a high-capacity young labor force.

Can Tourists Go to Iran Now?

The existence of various capacities in types of tourism, including natural, historical, religious, commercial, etc., has made Iran a unique and wonderful spot for adventurers even to this day. The diverse religious places of different religions, churches, tombs, and shrines of Jews, Zoroastrians, and Muslims, in addition to the country’s availability of a young and talented workforce, appropriate services, and its costs compared to other countries in the region is a bonus for Iran’s tourism and welcoming tourists annually.

Most tourists are interested in the climate, culture, or nature of their destination. The rich have always traveled far and wide, ultimately for a purpose, such as sightseeing famous buildings and works of art, learning new languages, ​​and tasting different food. As mentioned, tourism is a very crucial industry in all parts of the world.

History of Iran’s Tourism

Tourism has been active in Iran ever since its ancient dynasties. The presence of the popular Silk Road in Iran, the caravanserais, old huts, and extensive communication routes have been the reason for the passage of many travelers. In different periods with the reigns of different governments, such as the Achaemenid Empire, the Seleucid period, Qajar, etc., tourism was based on various purposes.

During the Safavid period, one of the most prosperous eras of tourism in Iran, the most significant factors that were taken into account were development, increased security, suitable communication routes, and the establishment of numerous facilities in Iran. In 1935, for the first time, The Ministry of Home Affairs Office, named ” The Foreign Tourist Attraction and Advertising Office,” was established in Iran, and the affairs related to Iran’s tourism were entrusted to this office.

Iran Tourism Ranking

The tourism industry is ranked third among the world’s largest industries. According to the latest tourism statistics, there are 48 countries in Asia with a population of more than 4.562 billion people who are constantly traveling to different countries every day, and based on the reports of the World Tourism Organization, tourism in Iran ranks 10th among countries with ancient and historical attractions and 5th among natural attractions in the world.

Tourism in Iran as an industry has very high capacities for growth and development. Iran is seen as one of the safest countries in the Middle East. In 2008, while 842 million tourists traveled the world, about 2 million foreign tourists visited Iran.

Iran’s Top UNESCO Sites

With the marking of 27 Iranian historical and natural monuments in the list of UNESCO, Iran stands at ninth place in the world registration among 161 member countries of UNESCO. Iran has one of the oldest civilizations in the world, in such a way that many cultural elements in today’s world are indebted to the Aryan civilization.

This land has been the origin of rich human civilizations and cultures in different historical periods, and therefore, it has been the source of many historical and natural heritages.

This Iran UNESCO World Heritage Sites list includes 25 cultural heritage works and 2 natural heritage works. Bam Citadel was severely damaged after the earthquake in Bam, and since then, it has been on the list of endangered works, but due to the restorations carried out over the past years, UNESCO removed the Bam Citadel from the list of endangered works.

Persepolis – Shiraz

Persepolis, or the City of the Persians, is a symbol of grandeur in ancient Iran and one of the top things to do in Shiraz. Perhaps the relics in the city of Persepolis and the remaining buildings in it are some of the most important documents recorded of the history of civilization in the world.

Therefore, eminent scientists and archaeologists from all over the world have traveled to Iran to visit Persepolis. It shows the architectural splendor of the palace of the kings in the era of ancient Iran. The Achaemenid kings built their stone palaces in the heart of the mountain and near the city of Shiraz to leave a vivid picture of their power for future generations.

ChoghaZanbil Ziggurat – Khuzestan province

Choghazanbil Ziggurat is part of the ancient collections of early civilizations during the agricultural revolution and Mesopotamian civilizations in Persia. The ancient city of Susa is located in the northwest of the Ziggurat pyramid. This ziggurat, or pyramid-shaped temple, was built around 1250 BC by Elamite ruler Untash-Napirisha, who dedicated it to one of the ancient gods in Persia named Inshushinak.

This ancient monument, which is a pyramid with a quadrangular base, was protected by walls, which have now been restored. If you are interested in adventurous and historical trips to the depths of the ancient world, we recommend you visit this archeological pyramid of Iran.

Naqshe Jahan Square – Isfahan

Naqshe Jahan Square, also known as Imam Square, is one of the most beautiful places and top things to do in Isfahan, Iran. In fact, the collection of many ancient buildings of the Naqshe Jahan Square, one of the largest ancient squares in the world, has made this square a fantastic tourist attraction spot.

Today, Naqshe Jahan has gathered a lot of fans all over the world. The marking of this square in the UNESCO World Heritage List shows the importance of this area. During your trip to Isfahan, you can spend a lot of time in this magnificent square and enjoy watching its historical monuments and beautiful nature, as well as purchasing the best souvenirs of Iran.

Takht-e Soleyman – West Azerbaijan Province

Takht Suleiman, which is named the birthplace of Zoroastrianism religion, has stood for five periods of human history and civilization. This distinguished and extraordinary complex, dating back to 3000 years ago, is registered in the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is one of the sights of West Azerbaijan and is located in the city of Takab. Takht-e Soleyman was the largest educational, religious, and prayer center before Islam, and it is known as the most important base of Zoroastrianism.

On the grounds of Takht-e Soleyman, you will encounter a beautiful landscape of a natural lake, a hidden gem of Iran. This bubbling limestone lake is thousands of years old and is an important reason for the construction of Takht-e Soleyman in this place.

Final Word

So, to answer your question, “Does Iran have tourism?” Absolutely!

Iran, having numerous sites marked in the world by UNESCO, can be one of the important centers to attract tourists to historical works and monuments. The existence of sites such as Persepolis, ChoghaZanbil Ziggurat, Takht-e Soleyman, Naqshe Jahan Square, and the Bam Citadel are among the most treasured world attractions of Iran. Visiting tourist attractions, listening to the beautiful sounds of nature, and getting to know the special culture of a region make you pack your bags for an adventurous trip. But whatever the reason for your trip, Iran is one of the best places to travel. From the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf, Iran’s history, culture, and natural attractions entice unlimited tourists and ensure a pleasurable trip for its visitors.

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

If Iran is the next destination for your upcoming excursion, don’t worry we have got you covered by providing you with a comprehensible list of the top 10 hotels in Iran. In every city of the country, you will find a multitude of hotels welcoming guests from all over the globe. However, with our list of the top-notch hotels in Iran, we will make everything in your stay go without a hitch.

As a tourist, you can find the most comfortable and luxurious rooms for your accommodation while abiding in Iran with countless services made available for you, from health care centers offering you a relaxing massage to restaurants and cafes serving some of the most popular traditional and international dishes. Here we are, as your ultimate guide to the best luxury hotels in Iran for a cozy and luxurious sojourn.

Espinas Palace Hotel – Tehran

Espinas Palace Hotel is among Iran’s top-notch hotels in the capital city, Tehran. Nestled in the northern area of ​​Tehran, Espinas Palace Hotel shines like a jewel in the city of Tehran as one of the best hotels in the capital and one of the top five-star hotels in Iran.

Espinas Palace Hotel has taken into consideration the different expectations of its guests and offers unique luxury services. The hotel is a relatively newly built hotel that was inspired by the name of one of the northern peaks of Iran near the Alborz Mountains.

This luxurious five-star hotel has Royal and Standard rooms, as well as Junior, President, and Espinas Palace Suites. It boasts all kinds of rooms on its twenty floors.

The architecture of Espinas Palace Hotel plays a huge role in its fame and title, bearing the word Palace in its name. Looking at the Espinas Palace photos you can see the impressive design of the hotel, using contemporary architecture influenced by the antique architecture of the ancient Persia. Therefore, by booking in Espinas Hotel being the best hotel in Tehran Iran, a royal stay awaits you.

This hotel is one of the most outstanding buildings in the city of Tehran and one of the best hotels in Iran. It houses a magnificent lobby, public spaces, and especially well-equipped and standard rooms, which all together create a unique and unforgettable stay.

In this hotel, every expectation you have from a five-star luxury hotel in the capital will be met in the best way.

Espinas Palace Hotel Health Center

If you are staying at this hotel, take the time to enjoy a comforting massage and experience the feeling of relaxation at the luxury health center of Espinas Palace on the third floor. Stay away from the city’s hustle and bustle for hours by being in this space.

Sunset Cafe, a coffee shop with a special smoking room

If you are a fan of international drinks such as lattes, don’t forget to try the lattes served in Sunset Cafe. Seeping warm coffee from your cup on a cool, breezy Spring morning with your loved ones in one of the best hotels in Iran will never be forgotten. Light snacks, muffins, and all kinds of delicious sweets are served in Sunset Café of Espinas Palace.

Lawtoon Restaurant with Iranian and International Menu

The friendly service of Lawtoon Restaurant along with its skillful master chefs will ensure that you will have the most flavorful dishes served at your table and that you will always cherish the taste and color of the food in this restaurant.

Diba Restaurant, a traditional restaurant with an Iranian menu

The captivating design of Diba Restaurant will attract you at first glance. You can have the opportunity to taste the traditional Iranian food in this Restaurant. Both traditional and luxurious drinks, including tea, coffee, and the famous Palace brew, are provided for you and served in a completely traditional way, which you can enjoy after your meal.

Golden Palace Hotel – Mashhad

A blend of a cosmopolitan façade with an opulent interior resembling a true palatial building, the Golden Palace International Hotel is one of the most luxurious and top hotels in the city of Mashhad in Iran. Golden Palace Hotel glows brightly like gold among the hotels in Mashhad and is one of the most visited hotels in the city. It is a 20-story hotel with 358 diverse rooms. It boasts the highest level of security and the best facilities and ensures full comfort for its guests.

The different types of rooms in Golden Palace Hotel include the President Suite, Royal Suite, Junior Suite, Senior Suite, and Imperial Suite. In addition, the hotel also has built atrium rooms, which are located on the fifth to sixteenth floors. The view of these rooms faces the atrium, which is the open space inside the hotel.

Mahmoud Sezavar and his son Amir Sezavar founded this Five-star hotel in 2016. After his death in March 2017, his second son continued the construction operation. The design of the Golden Palace Hotel is based on the unique architectural techniques of Mahmoud Sezavar, a prominent architect in Iran.

Golden Palace luxury hotel has a large parking lot, a well-equipped sports complex (including a swimming pool, a poolroom, and a gym), a children’s playground, and many restaurants with a variety of Iranian and international dishes. Mashhad’s Golden Palace Hotel has convenient access to tourist attractions such as Nader Tomb, Clay Dome, Sheikh Bahai Tomb, Reza Bazaar, Astan Quds Razavi Museum, several shopping malls, and the historical Goharshad Mosque of Mashhad.

Parsian Azadi Hotel – Tehran

The second top 5-star hotel in Tehran is the Parsian Azadi Hotel. The Parsian International Hotel is located in the foothills of the Alborz Mountains. It is not only the largest hotel in the Parsian hotel chains, but Parsian International Hotel is the most striking hotel in Iran in many ways.

The hotel provides a total of 552 rooms and suites equipped with all comfort and communication facilities, halls with different capacities for holding conferences and business and family gatherings, luxury Iranian restaurants with international food menus, diverse shopping centers, and sports facilities are only part of the facilities of Parsian Azadi Hotel. The luxury accommodations, as well as the hospitality of the staff, will leave a lasting memory for all the esteemed guests of this hotel.

One of the most important privileges of booking and staying in this hotel, as one of the best hotels in Iran, is the proximity to the most beautiful street in Tehran – Valiasr Street, the longest street in the world. Parsian Azadi Hotel can be reached within 5 minutes from the Tehran International Exhibition Center. It provides convenient proximity to various historical, sightseeing, medical, and higher education centers in Tehran.

Rose Restaurant of Azadi Hotel.

Rose restaurant, with a capacity of 78 people, is highly sophisticated due to its young and experienced staff, the luxurious decoration, and the indescribable view of the mountains in the north of Tehran, serving diverse Iranian and International dishes., sightseeing, medical, and higher education centers in Tehran.

Abbasi Hotel – Isfahan

The magnificent Persian architecture has always shone like a shining gem among the architectural works of the world. In the meantime, the architecture of the monuments of Isfahan City, also known as “Half of the World,” has been the crowning glory of Persian culture and history.

If you are traveling to the ancient city of Isfahan, you can stay at the most beautiful international hotel in the Middle East, which is a relic of Shah Sultan Hoseyn Safavi.

Abbasi Hotel, with its 300-year-old history and its penetrating Iranian architecture, has always been popular with foreign guests.

The rooms of this 4-star hotel have an exceptional and picturesque view of a garden, and the turquoise dome of the ancient Chaharbagh School, as well as the amazing decorations and architecture of Qajar and Safavid ornamentations in some of its suites, are among the interior design elements found in Abbasi Hotel of Isfahan.

This hotel is a fantastic choice for anyone interested in the antiquity of Persian architecture and historical works.

Although Abbasi Hotel is the oldest hotel in the world, it does not lack any facilities. Its luxurious restaurants, traditional canteens, and modern coffee shops cater to all tastes. It embraces 11 multi-purpose halls for holding all kinds of seminars, parties, and receptions, from official to unofficial conferences.

In addition to the sports complex, including a swimming pool, dry and steam sauna, hot tubs, gym, and massage services, this hotel combines tradition and modernity in the most sophisticated way.

Toranj Hotel – Kish Island

Kish Island has numerous entertainments, including nightlife activities to fulfill a thrilling journey. The island possesses various hotels with all kinds of designs. It is no surprise that one of the most luxurious and top-notch hotels in Iran is located on this beautiful island. Toranj Hotel of Kish Island has all the amenities a 5-star hotel can offer and is considered one of the most expensive hotels in Iran.

Most importantly, Toranj Hotel is the first marine hotel in the country, which is located in the northwest of the island. The hotel has two parts, which are the beach and the sea. In the marine part of the hotel, suites with glass windows are waiting for you to watch marine plants and aquatic animals. In the coastal part of the hotel, there is a traditional coffee shop, which is a beach cafe with wooden beds, arresting you with the pleasant aroma of Iranian tea.

Toranj Hotel uses a wooden dock to connect all parts of the suites together, and the beautiful lobby of the hotel, with its luxurious lighting and decoration, provides an excellent atmosphere for your intimate chats.

Shiraz Grand Hotel – Shiraz

The Shiraz Grand Hotel’s cosmopolitan design with upscale amenities is built on the northeast mountains of Shiraz with 14 floors and 158 rooms. The five-star Shiraz Grand Hotel can be an ideal dream place for tourists and travelers who have chosen Shiraz as a travel destination. This hotel also provides the best accommodation for the residents by being equipped with the most complete facilities and services.

There are countless sightseeing and entertainment places around this grand hotel, such as Khwaju Kermani Tomb, Koohpayeh Park, Luna Park Amusement Park, and Saadieh (Tomb of Saadi). The location of this hotel on top of the mountain creates an attractive and spectacular view for guests. If you are looking for the best hotel to stay in Shiraz, the Shiraz Grand Hotel will be the best and most ideal option for you.

Among the most exceptional recreational facilities of Shiraz Grand Hotel are a gym, swimming pool, dry sauna, steam sauna, and hot tubs. During specific hours of the day, the use of the sports complex of this luxury hotel in Shiraz is free for guests.

Moshir Al-Mamalek Garden Hotel – Yazd

A 13 thousand square meters hotel bearing traditional architecture with an entrance leading to a mesmerizing large garden and pool is a perfect choice for any traveler adoring the Persian culture. Moshir Al-Mamalek Hotel in Yazd City is one of Iran’s top historical hotels, welcoming thousands of visitors annually. The hotel dates back to the Qajar period and was constructed by Mirza Fateh Khan Mushir al-Malik, from which the title of the hotel is derived.

In this 4-star hotel, 106 accommodation units are available for travelers. Moshir Al-Mamalek Garden Hotel provides Six-person connect suites, five-person connect suites, special four-bed rooms, two-person royal suites, double and twin rooms with garden view, normal double and twin rooms, etc.

The building of the Moshir Al Mamalek Hotel in Yazd has been renovated by skilled architects to meet the needs of passengers even with physical disabilities. Emergency medical services, elevators, traditionally decorated restrooms, a garden restaurant, a painting restaurant, conference halls, and a sports club are the facilities of this aesthetic and vibrant antique hotel of the beautiful city of Yazd.

Laleh Park Hotel – Tabriz

Laleh Park Hotel is a newly established contemporary hotel in Tabriz City, built by the Kaya Hotel group in 2009 and opened in 2013. The hotel is located in the northwest of Tabriz and adjacent to the Laleh Park shopping center. Laleh Park Hotel has 220 accommodation units that are equipped with an air conditioning system, electronic cash register, telephone, hair dryer, mini bar, and a bathroom.

There is also a large sports complex with an area of ​​1337 square meters, including a health center, plates, and yoga rooms, dry sauna, steam sauna, Turkish bath, skincare, and massage in this five-star hotel, which creates an atmosphere of staying in one of the Southeast Asian hotels by a coast.

You will find more than 10 reception halls in Laleh Park Hotel equipped with a sauna, swimming pool, and suites for brides and grooms, as well as audio and video equipment, welcoming guests who want to hold their celebrations and parties in this hotel. Laleh Park Hotel also features one of the best restaurants in Tabriz, which serves you a variety of Iranian and international dishes cooked by the best chefs.

Darvishi Royal Hotel – Mashhad

The famous 5-star Darvishi Hotel is another suitable option for a luxury stay in Mashhad, and also one of the most famous and best hotels in Iran opened in 2011. The hotel has 22 floors containing 230 rooms. Darvishi Royal Hotel is on the list of the most lavish hotels in eastern Iran.

Darvishi Hotel is the only hotel in Iran with more than 800 square meters of atrium space with an intricate design. The facilities of this unique hotel offered to its guests are a variety of French and Iranian restaurants, a sports complex, spas, conference and convention halls, and shopping centers. The proximity of this hotel to the metro station provides easy access for passengers to different parts of Mashhad.

Sorinet Maryam Hotel – Kish Island

Kish Island is very popular for its grand hotels, but an excellent choice for a pleasurable sojourn is the Sorinet Maryam Hotel. A 4-star hotel with European baroque architecture dazzling your eyes, Sorinet Maryam Hotel is adjacent to the Persian Gulf and close to the best shopping centers of Kish Island, including Pearl, Sarina, and Zeitoun shopping malls.

Visiting the luxurious suites of this hotel, from double standard to junior and presidential suites, will charm you, particularly with its modern facilities. Free internet is made available in all parts of the hotel, a beautiful and dashing restaurant serving both Iranian cuisine and fast food, a coffee shop giving you the taste of a comfortable stay, and a game room are among the amenities of the Sorinet Maryam Hotel.

Final Word

With our latest list of the 10 Best Hotels in Iran in 2024, all travelers can effortlessly find the highest-ranking hotels satisfying their guests with high-quality facilities, services, and exquisite architecture of buildings, arousing a sense of antiquity or royalty. Iran’s hotel room prices range from 1 million Rials to 14 million Rials depending on the suite you select for your accommodation. Each person can find the best rooms among the accommodations according to the type and purpose of the trip, length of stay, budget, and travel style.

In this list, we have discussed only a number of prominent hotels among the best hotels in Iran. You can check all the hotels that we have introduced as the best hotels in Iran in more detail on the hotels’ respective websites, and if they suit your needs, you can easily make a reservation with just a few simple clicks.

Shiraz is the capital of Fars province in southern Iran, which is the fourth largest city in Iran, with a population of about 1.5 million people. This city, with a long history and rich culture, is known as one of the most important tourist centers of Iran, and many famous attractions of this city are known as the symbol of Shiraz. Traveling to Shiraz is a very attractive and exciting experience that gives you the opportunity to visit tourist attractions, learn about Iranian culture and art, and also enjoy the beautiful nature of this city.

Every year, millions of domestic and foreign tourists travel to this city. The name of Shiraz can be seen in the oldest books and museums in the world. Also, in Shiraz, there are delicious local foods, traditional markets, traditional accommodation centers, and many national and world heritage sites where you can gain important information and knowledge about the history of Iran. In the following, we will introduce the symbols of Shiraz and why Shiraz is such a famous city.

The Symbol of Shiraz Name

Studies on everything about Shiraz and the history of Shiraz show that there are different narratives about the construction of Shiraz and its foundation. The first discovered tablets related to the old names of Shiraz are Elamite clay tablets from 4 thousand years ago. The name on these tablets refers to the name of Tirazis. It is predicted that Tirazis changed phonetically during different periods and reached the modern name of Shiraz.

Also, the narrations of Shiraz being built by Ibn Tahmuras, the third greatest king in the world, consider the reason for the name of Shiraz to be the name of the son of Tahmuras. The second version says that the main reason for naming the city is the existence of a castle with this name in the place where it was founded. Evidence of inscriptions bearing the name Shiraz has been found in Persepolis and Elamite clay tablets of ancient cities, which is a strong document of the long history of the beautiful name of Shiraz, which means the center of grapes.

The Symbol of Shiraz in Islam

The symbol of Shiraz in Islam is often associated with the tomb of Hafez, a famous Persian poet. The tomb of Hafez, located in Shiraz, is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and poetry lovers. Deeply imbued with Sufi themes and spiritual insights, Hafez’s poetry has resonated with many Muslims around the world.

His tomb serves as a symbol of spiritual enlightenment, love, and wisdom in Islamic culture and attracts visitors who seek inspiration and connection with the divine through his timeless verses.

What is Shiraz Known for?

The symbology of Shiraz has a rich historical and cultural significance. One of its prominent symbols is the fragrant and green Persian gardens, which reflect the poetic beauty and aesthetic appeal of the city. Another symbol is the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, famous for its stunning architecture and colorful stained glass windows that reflect the city’s spiritual heritage and Islamic influence.

In addition, Shiraz is symbolized by its renowned poets, such as Hafez and Saadi, whose immortal verses celebrate love, wisdom, and the human experience and embody the city’s literary legacy and artistic talent. Moreover, the symbol of Shiraz is drawn to its vineyards and grape cultivation, which is a symbol of fertility, abundance, and pleasures of life. Together, these symbols include the essence of Shiraz as a city of beauty, spirituality, creativity, and cultural richness.

Orange Blossom Trees

One of the most important natural symbols of the city of Shiraz is its orange blossom trees, which are considered one of the identity elements of the city of Shiraz; a feature that has made many consider spring the best season to travel to Shiraz and is the most lovely symbol of Shiraz.

There is almost no street in Shiraz that does not have orange blossom trees. A tree for which legends and tales have been written, among which we can mention the myth of the marriage of the orange blossoms. This tree was and still is so important for the people of Shiraz that its fruit, or so-called bearing fruit, was also very important for them. In ancient times, the people of Shiraz even wrote rituals and myths for the fertility of these trees.

City of Culture and Literature

Shiraz has been a city of writers and scholars since the beginning of its history. World geographers such as Ibn Hawqal and Tedesco have given Shiraz the title of Dar al-Ulama (House of Knowledge) in their travelogues and documents. In the 13th century, Shiraz was the capital and center of science and art.

In the 13th century, due to the existence of famous artists and scholars in Shiraz, this city has been a leader in the development of science and literature.

Undoubtedly, the influence of empires such as the Achaemenid Empire, Sassanians, and Zands on the cultural and artistic progress of Shiraz cannot be ignored. It is true that Shiraz has its literature and culture from poets such as Hafez and Saadi, but if it were not for the presence of Achaemenids, Sasanians, and Zands, the progress of civilization would not have been seen in Shiraz.

Hafez Shirazi

Hafez, also known as Khwāja Hafez-e Shirazi, is a renowned poet from Shiraz who lived around 727 AH. Hafez is one of the most influential poets in the history of Iran; it can be boldly said that he has influenced a large percentage of poets after him. The most important work left by Hafez is Divan-e-Hafez. Hafez’s poems are mostly written in ghazal (quatrain) form.

Hafez’s poems are very important in Western literature. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Hafez’s poems were translated into European languages, such as English and French. The tomb of Hafez is located in the city of Shiraz and is known as Hafeziyeh and is a famous symbol of Shiraz.

Another interesting point to note is Hafez’s strange effectiveness of the Qur’an to the extent that one of the reasons for choosing the title of Hafez for him is that he memorized the Qur’an in several different ways. According to some experts and writers, Hafez’s revolution in ghazal, which is the composition of verses with independent meaning, was influenced by the style of the Qur’an.

Nevertheless, Hafez should not be considered independent of ancient Iranian culture. The interesting thing is that the fame and influence of Hafez started during his lifetime, and his work reached the Indian subcontinent at the same time, and the poets of those lands tried to use the characteristics of Hafez’s poetry.

Saadi Shirazi

Saadi Shirazi, also known as the Master of Speech, is a great poet and master from Shiraz. Saadi was born in 606 AH. Saadi Shirazi was one of the famous preachers of the Islamic world in his time. This great poet is famous among writers and poets for his eloquence and skillful storytelling.

The surviving works of Saadi include Golestan, Boostan, and Ghazaliat of Saadi. There are anecdotes and moral teachings in Golestan and Boostan books, which are very attractive and listenable to readers. Saadi passed away in Shiraz in 690 AH. The tomb of Saadi is located in the city of Shiraz named Saadieh.

His works have long been taught in schools and libraries as a source of teaching Persian language and literature, and many common proverbs in the Persian language are derived from his poems and writings. Saadi should be considered a master of simplistic writing, attractive simplistic writing, which, of course, is a unique art full of interesting points.

Saadi also gained a lot of fame and respect during his lifetime, and his works spread to India, Asia Minor, and Central Asia. The interesting point here is that Hafez was one of the poets who turned to writing ghazal under the influence of Saadi’s style and initially drew inspiration from Saadi. These famous Persian poets are both the symbol of Shiraz.

Sightseeing and Tourism in Shiraz

Shiraz has many places to see and watch that are world-famous; in the following, we introduce some of the most famous historical attractions of Shiraz:

Pasargadae: The city of Pars or Pasargadae is located 136 km from the Shiraz-Isfahan road and contains one of the most famous historical monuments of Iran, the tomb of Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Empire.

Persepolis: The largest ancient building in Iran that represents the history of the city and is located 60 km from Shiraz, is Persepolis. This building is a combination of the architecture of civilizations covered by Achaemenid.

Shapouri Mansion: One of the must-see places in Shiraz that was built during the first Pahlavi period. The architecture of this building is very spectacular and unique and it belonged to the rich Shapouri family until 1999.

Ilkhani Garden: It is one of the most attractive places to visit in Shiraz, and dates back to the Qajar period. This beautiful garden is a memory of Mohammad Ali Khan Eilkhani Qashqai and is located in the Sibagh-e Shiraz neighborhood.

Karim Khan Citadel: Arg of Karim Khan is one of the largest brick historical buildings in Shiraz. The outer building is 12 meters high. In this citadel, a tilted tower can be seen. This tower is tilted 30 degrees, and that is why it is famous.

Baba Kouhi Mausoleum: One of the most attractive places to see in this city is on the Sabouri Mountain of Shiraz and on the left side of the Qur’an Gate, which dates back to the Deylamian period. There are two caves in this mountain; in one of these caves, there are two tombs known as Baba Kouhi.

Jahan Nama Garden: This garden is located near Hafezieh and is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Shiraz. Jahan Nama Garden, with the octagonal mansion inside, is very spectacular.

Shiraz National Garden: Among the sights of this city, Shiraz National Garden is considered one of the best and coziest places to see. This garden is located at the Hafezieh intersection and is considered one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Shiraz. In this garden, there are old cypress trees and tall pine trees, which show the age of this garden.

Shah Cheragh: Shah Cheragh is a pilgrimage and religious place in Shiraz, housing the tomb of Ahmad ibn Musa Kazim, the elder son of the seventh Imam and brother of Imam Reza (AS). The architecture of the shrine is very beautiful and eye-catching and has plastering and mirror works with lights from all corners of this shrine.

Famous Foods of Shiraz

One of the most famous foods belonging to Shiraz is Faloodeh Shirazi, a sweet dessert with many fans throughout Iran. Another popular dish among the people is Salad Shirazi, a tasty and flavorful salad made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and herbs with lemon juice and olive oil.

Additionally, Shiraz offers a variety of delicacies meals and local specialties, including Kalam Polo (cabbage rice), Dopiaz-e Aloo (potato stew), Shirin Polo (sweet rice pilaf), Ghormeh Be, Yakhni Nokhod (chickpea stew), Lubia Polo (rice with green beans), Robb-e Polo (beetroot rice), Shirazi Polo (Shirazi rice), Eshkeneh, Havij Polo (carrot rice), Kofteh Halou (meatballs with plums), Kofteh Sabzi (meatballs with herbs), and Dampokhtak (lamb and vegetable stew). These dishes show the rich culinary tradition and various flavors of Shiraz.

Shiraz Gardens

Shiraz is not only decorated with beautiful, cultural, historical, and traditional buildings but also has many stunning gardens. These gardens add to the charm of the city. They play a significant role in representing the symbol of Shiraz.

Some of the notable gardens include the Eram Botanical Garden, the Jahan Nama Garden, the Afifabad Garden, the Delgosha Garden, the Narenjestan Garden, the gardens of Qasr al-Dasht, and the recently established Chamran Gardens, alongside Shiraz flower gardens, which have been operational for almost two years. These gardens are considered unique beauties of the city and add to its charm and appeal.

Shiraz Spring

Spring in Shiraz is a time of unique beauty when nature wakes up from its winter sleep to paint the city with vivid colors and sweet fragrances. The arrival of spring brings a storm of life to the gardens, orchards, and parks of Shiraz, as cherry blossoms, tulips, and roses bloom in abundance. The air is filled with the fragrance of citrus blossoms and jasmine, and the gentle breeze carries the melody of birds chirping.

As the days grow longer and warmer, families and friends gather in the gardens to enjoy picnics amidst blooming flowers and lush greenery. Spring in Shiraz is truly a wonderful experience, where the city comes alive with new promise and joy.

Final Word

Shiraz is a historical, beautiful, and green city with a pleasant climate, delicious food, and kind people with a sweet accent who are famous for hospitality. The city of Shiraz has long been the place of residence of many poets and intellectuals of Iran. Some even consider the freshness, purity, and beauty of this city to inspire poets like Hafez to create original poems. This city has been the capital of Iran in different historical periods, and this has caused many historical buildings to exist in it.

All these factors have made Shiraz one of the main tourist destinations among Iranians. A trip to Shiraz requires planning since without it you will probably get confused among the many sights and tourist attractions of this city. In this article, we tried to tell you about the symbols and attractions of this beautiful city, so that you can plan to visit this city and enjoy its historical monuments and sights.

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