Isfahan

Fin Garden is located on the western end of Kashan city. Fin Garden (Bagh-e fin) is the oldest existing Persian Garden in Iran. Built in 1590 by the order of the Safavid king, Shah Abbas I, the garden was expanded in early Qajar era (late 18th century). It counts as one of the most important Kashan tourist attractions. Fin garden is a UNESCO world heritage site since 2011, along with 8 other Persian Gardens in Iran. Fin Garden architecture is a perfect sample of Iranian Gardens and a mixture of architectural features from Safavid era, Zandiyeh and Qajar periods. There was symmetry applying on the garden plan, but later the addition of the buildings by the kings led to its plan’s symmetry decrease. https://irantourismer.com/fin-garden-kashan-bagh-e-fin/

Borujerdi House is a traditional historic house in Kashan city of Isfahan Province. It was built in 1857 by the same architect who built the exquisite house nearby (Tabatabaei House), for its affluent merchant owner, Seyed Mehdi Natanzi. Borujerdi House is a brilliant example of vernacular architecture of the desert region of Iran. The house counts as one of the top Kashan tourist attractions. Owner of Boroujerdi House Kashan (Borujerdi House), Seyed Mehdi Natanzi a wealthy merchant of Natanz known as Boroujerdi, fell in love with Seyed Jafar Tabatabaei’s daughter (one of the greatest carpet merchants of the time). In order to give him his consent to marry his daughter, he asked Seyed Mehdi Natanzi to build a house similar to his own house! And he did so! to satisfy the demand of his future bride’s family. After seven years the construction of Andaruni yard (interior yard) and after 11 years the main hall were completed! https://irantourismer.com/boroujerdi-house-kashan-borujerdi-house/

Tabatabaei House is a historic traditional house in the city of Kashan. Built in 1835, the house belonged to the affluent Tabatabaei family. The house measures 5,000 sqm and includes 40 rooms. Tabatabaei Historical House is the quintessential example of Iranian climate-adaptive vernacular architecture. Tabatabaei House in Kashan is also known as “the bride” among all other traditional Houses. The reason behind this naming is the fact that the delicate beauty visible to the visitors of the mansion is one of a merit kind! Tabatabaei Historical House is one of the well-preserved original Persian mansions of Iran. You will be astonished with the details of the Tabatabaei House architecture. Tabatabaei House in Kashan along with a couple of other mansions are the most visited Kashan attractions. Tabataba’iha House is occasionally used in the production of films portraying the old Iran. https://irantourismer.com/tabatabaei-house/

Agha Bozorg Mosque is a historic mosque in Kashan city. Constructed in the late 18th century (Qajar era). Aqa Bozorg Mosque and theological school were dedicated to Molla Mahdi Naraghi II (titled Agha Bozorg or the great lord), a prominent clergy of the time, to perform praying, preaching and teaching. The mosque counts as one of the unique Kashan attractions. Agha Bozorg Mosque architecture makes the monument truly unique among Iranian mosques, for its vernacular architecture and adaptation to the desert climate with such finesse and aesthetic taste. Aqa Bozorg Mosque Kashan is still a working mosque and open to both students and the public. One of the finest Islamic complexes and best of the mid-19th century. https://irantourismer.com/agha-bozorg-mosque-kashan-aqa-bozorg/

Meybod Caravanserai or popular as Shah Abbasi Caravanserai Meybod, built in 1689, sits in the city of Meybod, 56 km northwest of Yazd City. Properly preserved, Meybod Caravanserai is one of the numerous caravanserais of Iran, constructed in the Safavid era (1501-1726). It is neighbored by Kolar Water Reservoir (Ab Anbar) on its entrance, an Icehouse (Yakhchal) on its opposite, and a Pony Express (Chapar-Khaneh) on its side. Hence, Meybod sightseeing counts as one of the popular Yazd tourist attractions. Caravanserais were constructed along the highly commuted Silk Road and major trade or pilgrimage routes throughout history. During the Safavid Era, especially the reign of Shah Abbas the Great, 5th and influential king of Safavid Dynasty, numerous caravanserais were established to facilitate commutes as part of their growing international trade and relations policy, and pilgrimage routes to/from religious cities. Meybod Caravanserai, like its counterparts, did not just offer an austere place to stay the night, but it served travellers with full amenities such as equipped chambers and niches, freshwater access, animal stalls, etc. for a comfortable stay of several days. https://irantourismer.com/meybod-caravanserai/

Chak Chak Village is located in Ardakan County, 70 km north of Yazd city. The temple of Chak Chak is perched beneath a cliff, which is one of the holy Zoroastrian mountain temples in Iran when the avid Zoroastrians gather on special occasions to observe their rituals. While the temple is a man-made grotto in the cliff, historical beliefs and legends shrouds the sanctuary. The mystery of the history of Chak Chak Village is a folklore legend as it goes: After the invasion of Arabs to the realm of Sassanid Dynasty and the defeat of the last king, Yazdegerd III, the royal family took refuge in the current city of Yazd. By the time Arabs conquered Yazd, the family separated to increase the chance of survival. One of Yazdegerd’s daughters, Nikbanu, flees to the Ardakan mountain and Chak Chak Village. And prays to Ahura Mazda (what Zoroastrians call The God) to protect her from Arabs. In response of her sincere supplication, Ahura Mazda commanded the mountain to be opened and safe haven for the chaste lady. https://irantourismer.com/chak-chak-yazd-pir-e-sabz/

Dolat Abad Garden: Imagine a hot sandy desert. Sun is up and you can feel the high-temperature rays in your every cell. Neither wind nor breeze. Nothing but heat. Are you ready for a miracle to put you at leisure? Are you ready to get cool and relaxed? Dolat Abad Garden (Dowlat Abad Garden) is somewhere you’re looking for! Generally, the Persian garden style is a really unique one indeed. UNESCO has listed 9 of the Persian gardens of Iran and Dolat Abad Garden is one of them. The moment you enter the gate you are astonished with the nature you didn’t expect to see. A manmade waterway with small fountains, walled with tall trees leading you to the pavilion in the middle of the garden. As you walk down the path you can feel the cool breeze touching your skin and the shade of trees relieving you from the burning sun. We hope that you are feeling better than those heaty moments before entering the Dolat Abad Garden. https://irantourismer.com/dolat-abad-garden-in-yazd-bagh-e-dowlat/

The Masjid-e-Jameh Yazd is the grand, congregational mosque of Yazd city. The 12th-century mosque is still in use today. It was first built under Ala’oddoleh Garshasb of the Al-e Bouyeh dynasty. The mosque was largely rebuilt between 1324 and 1365, and is one of the outstanding historical buildings of Iran. The mosque is a fine specimen of the Azari style of Persian architecture. The mosque is crowned by a pair of minarets, the highest in Iran, and the portal’s facade is decorated from top to bottom in dazzling tile work, predominantly blue in colour. Within is a long arcaded courtyard where behind a deep-set south-east iwan is a sanctuary chamber (shabestan). This chamber, under a squat tiled dome, is exquisitely decorated with faience mosaic: its tall faience Mihrab, dated 1365, is one of the finest of its kind in existence. The elegant patterns of brickwork and the priceless inscription of mosaic tiles bearing angular Kufic all create a sense of beauty. The main prayer niche, the one which is located below the dome, is decorated with elegant mosaic tiles. On the two star-shaped inlaid tiles, the name of the builder and the time of construction of the prayer niche sparkle beautifully. The two towering minarets dating back to the Safavid era measure 52 meters in height and 6 meters in diameter. http://yazd.today/yazd-masjid-e-jameh-the-12th-century-mosque-one-of-the-most-interesting-historical-monuments/

The 19th-century Amir Chakhmaq Complex with its imposing three-story facade is one of the abundant tourist hotspots of Yazd, an oasis city in central Iran. Located on a square of the same name, the prominent complex is noted for its eye-catching rows of symmetrical sunken alcoves, which are perfectly lit up following the sunset. The structures that make up the complex include a mosque, a caravanserai, a bathhouse, a cold-water well and a tekyeh where Shiite Muslims come together for observing special religious ceremonies, all of which have been designed in accordance with traditional layout principles. The perfectly proportioned niches on the façade may seem at their best and most photogenic late in the afternoon, when towering exterior appears to glow against the darkening sky and copper-coloured sunlight is captured within each alcove. A pedestrianized square overlooking the complex is usually full of visitors. It is landscaped with a vast pool, illuminated fountains, well-manicured trees and shrubs that lend an attractive foreground to the splendid vista at night. http://yazd.today/yazd-amir-chakhmaq-complex-is-a-photogenic-destination-for-thousands-of-tourist/

Towers of Silence in Yazd city are raised circular structures where Zoroastrians would leave the dead bodies to deflesh since ancient times. As one of the main Yazd attractions, no tourist affords to miss a visit to the daunting Towers of Silence. Now, Where is the Tower of Silence? Well-preserved Zoroastrian Towers of Silence are found in Yazd, which is home to the majority of Zoroastrian community in Iran. Towers of Silence offer visitors an unmissable story behind Zoroastrian beliefs, on top of all, the answer to the much asked question: What did Zoroastrians do with dead bodies and why? Towers of Silence (or Dakhma) were constructed atop hills or low mountains in desert locations distant from population centers. Today, the only extant towers of Silence are found in Iran (cities like Yazd, Kerman, Shiraz, …) and India, where Parsi communities exist. https://irantourismer.com/towers-of-silence/

Pahlavanpur garden is one of the well-known and historical orchards of Iran. The orchard manifests Iranian and traditional architecture and has an eye-catching landscape. Located in Mehriz city, the orchard covers an area of roughly 5 hectares which is dated to Qajar era. Although the orchard was constructed in Qajar era, the hallmarks of the architectural styles, belonging to Zand dynasty are evident in different parts of this orchard. Historical buildings in this orchard have created a special bond between the nature and the art of architecture. The orchard includes a summerhouse, a winter quarter, janitor’s unit, the public bathroom and the kitchen Its architectural style is a blend of the architectural style of the summerhouse and the central courtyard. http://yazd.today/pahlavanpour-garden/

Naqsh-e Rustam is an ancient necropolis, located near Persepolis and 68 km northeast of Shiraz city. Naqsh-e Rustam Shiraz is the necropolis of the Achaemenid Dynasty (550–330 BC) and contains rock-reliefs from the Sassanid era (224–651 AD). Naghsh-e Rostam counts as one of the top Shiraz attractions, paired with Persepolis. A historic treasury lies in the Naqsh-e Rustam tombs location. Naghshe Rostam Shiraz is where the tomb of Darius I is located. According to the Naqsh-e Rustam inscription, archaeologists have discovered which great kings reside in Naqsh e Rustam burials. Inside Naqsh e Rustam tombs lacks any special design, however, there are carved the Naqsh-i Rustam inscriptions on the façade. Naghshe Rostam relief is like an ancient family album of the Achaemenids. https://irantourismer.com/naqsh-e-rustam-tomb-of-darius/

Eram Garden (Bagh-e-eram) - Highly recommended. This stunningly beautiful complex contains a vast network of gardens, as well as a colorful palace and a system of small artificial rivers flowing throughout the entire area. http://askaboutiran.com/tourist-areas/shiraz

Tourists coming down to Shiraz must not miss the chance to visit the Persepolis. The Persepolis, Shiraz is a must to every itinerary to Shiraz for its beauty the grandeur and history. It is a major Shiraz Tourist attraction which represents the grandeur of the Persian Empire. The Persepolis, Shiraz is situated at the center of the Persian Empire and was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenians. The exact location of the Persepolis in Shiraz is in Fars province which lies at a distance of 60 kilometers from Shiraz, near Marvdasht city. http://askaboutiran.com/tourist-areas/shiraz

Formerly a prison, but now an architectural wonder on exhibit. The structure of the citadel combines military and residential architecture, for it was the home of Karim Khan and the military center of that period. http://askaboutiran.com/tourist-areas/shiraz

Tomb of Saadi: The Tomb of Saadi is also called Saadieh. The first mausoleum was built in 13th century, however, it faced destruction in 17th century. The building that tourists visit today is the heritage of 1950s. The present building, which its architect was Mohsen Foroughi, was inspired by Chehel Sotun of Esfahan. Moreover, a Sassanid-year-old garden, the gorgeous Delgosha Garden is near the Tomb. The Tomb of Saadi was a Khangah* where Saadi lived the final days of his life there. And so he was buried there. Inside the mausoleum, the verses of Saadi poems are inscribed all around the walls. https://irantourismer.com/saadi-tomb/

Shah Cheragh Shiraz (in Persian: King of Light) is one of the most popular funerary monuments in Iran. It is home to tombs of Ahmad and Mohammad, two brothers of Ali ar-Ridha – 8th Imam of Shia Muslims. Circa 900 A.D, the two brothers aiming to join Ali ar-Ridha, who at the time resided in Khorasan of Iran (in eastern Iran) as the appointed successor to Abbasid caliph, took refugee in Shiraz but were persecuted by the Abbasids. The tombs remained unknown until early 12th century A.D. Different accounts or myths exist around the discovery of the tombs; All of which revolve around noticing a luminous light in the distance, where later the gravesites were discovered. And this is basically the reason behind the appellation: ‘’King of Light’’ or Shah Cheragh Mausoleum. https://irantourismer.com/shah-cheragh-shiraz/

Bagh-e Narenjestan (or Qavam House) is a historical house in the city of Shiraz. Construction of the house dates back to late 19th century (Late Qajar era), belonging to the famous wealth family of Qavam in Shiraz. Qavam House is one of Shiraz tourist attractions for its beautiful garden of sour oranges and exquisite architecture. While walking in the alleys of Shiraz, the smell of bitter orange intoxicates you. Now imagine wandering in the garden of bitter orange: Bagh-e Narenjestan! Bagh-e Narenjestan Shiraz or Narenjestan Garden Shiraz is famous for its bitter oranges and also the great mansions inside it. Narenjestan Shiraz is a must-visit to truly appreciate what makes Shiraz so famous among people. https://irantourismer.com/bagh-e-narenjestan/

This bath is a collection of art, architecture and using different materials with a suitable space which attracts people to itself. The architect of bath and in general Ganjali khan complex is a Yazdian architect named “Ostad Mohammad Soltani” who indeed knew the political, economical and cultural conditions of its time. Ganjali khan bath is a wonderful work, that with its beautiful tile-works, paintings plaster-works pats the eyes of every visitor. Baths are included among the inseparable part of the city’s building and are the main and important parts of Islamic cities and villages. The entrance to the Ganjali bathhouse is located along a section of Ganjali Khan Bazaar. The entry portal of these baths has been decorated with beautiful paintings of Safavid era. The bath is 64m in length and 30m in width at an area about 1380 sq.m. The length of its hot-chamber (Garmkhane) is 6/25m in width is 7/5 m and its reservoir is 8/5 m in length and 5/7 in width at an area of 44/8sq.m. It consists of two main parts; hot-chamber and dressing room. According to the class division in Safavid era the dressing room of bath has 6 chambers which each of them devoted to a special social class, including “Sayeds, clregies, tribal chiefs, grades, merchants and rustics. However, today they are one are two statues in every chamber of the dressing room that demonstrate the feature of mentioned classes. http://www.kerman-info.ir/ganjalikhan-bath-house

Kerman Bazaar is one of the prominent bazaars of Iran in both architecture and antiquity (dating back to 6 centuries ago). As one of the main Kerman attractions, it is located in the old district of Kerman city, stretching for 1,200 meters from Arg square (Tohid) to Moshtaghieh square (Shohada). Grand Bazaar of Kerman is also the longest market order of Iran, with multiple bazaars branching off in different directions. The location of Kerman Bazaar was on the way of various trade roads such as the old Silk Road and was considered as a connection point between southern ports, northern and eastern cities and the cities in deserts according to these features Kerman Grand Bazaar had a significant role economically. Bazar Kerman as one of the oldest trading centers of Iran is a complex of historical monuments and works, which was built in different eras by Kerman’s different rulers of the time and includes more than 60 percent of historical monuments as schools, mosques, bathhouses, etc. https://irantourismer.com/kerman-bazaar-grand-bazar-kerman/

Jame mosque which has been made in the 14th century was the main place for Moslems prayer in Kerman. Because of its special and important position which was located near the bazaar and in the centre of the city, Jame mosque of Kerman sites in the angle between Qadamgah bazaar from the south and so Shariati street from north and Shohada (moshtaqie) square from the east. In the west side, there is a huge and high portal which has been decorated with beautiful tile-works and is watchtower has added to its beauty. It has too large summer and winter porches and on the west side there is sites Mahdieh building. Some of the shops of Qadamgah and Mozafari bazaars have bequeathed their income to the expenses of this mosque. http://www.kerman-info.ir/jame-mosque

El Guli is one of the most beautiful parks of Iran, located in southeast of Tabriz. Neither construction date nor founder is certain, but some evidences attributable to Safavid and Aquyunlu eras have been found there. http://en-2018.tabriz.ir/?MID=27&id=59

Azerbaijan Museum is Iran’s second rich museum after national museum. This three-floor museum with a vast porch and a mansion was erected in 2400 square meters area in 1957, based on a plan designed by a French archeologist named Andre’ Godard. http://en-2018.tabriz.ir/?MID=27&id=51

Heidarzadeh edifice is one of the most beautiful historical houses of Tabriz. Constructed in circa 1870,it is a two-story house with private and public yards and 900 square meter area. http://en-2018.tabriz.ir/?MID=27&id=41

Located on Qatar’s north-west coast and comprising the immaculately restored Al Zubarah Fort and surrounding 60-hectare archaeological works, this UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most extensive and best preserved examples of an 18th–19th century settlement in the region. https://www.visitqatar.qa/discover/tourist-hotspots/al-zubarah.html

xperience 14 centuries of great art in a few hours. The MIA’s magnificent and imaginatively presented displays of the finest art and artefacts from across the Islamic world have earned it recognition among the world’s top cultural institutions. https://www.visitqatar.qa/discover/tourist-hotspots/museum-of-islamic-art.html

A stroll down the bustling alleys of Souq Waqif provides an authentic taste of traditional commerce, architecture and culture. The maze of small shops offer a dazzling array of Middle Eastern merchandise from spices and seasonal delicacies to perfumes, jewellery, clothing, handicrafts and a treasure trove of souvenir bargains. https://www.visitqatar.qa/discover/tourist-hotspots/souq-waqif.html

Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization features seven galleries spread over two levels. The ground-floor galleries cover aspects of the Islamic faith and the achievements of Arab scientists and astronomers. The upper floors offer a chronological overview of Islamic arts and crafts, including textiles and jewellery. Housed in building every bit as impressive as its collection, the museum is located on the Corniche, just north of the Heart of Sharjah district. Astrolabes, manuscripts, ceramics and coins all vie for your attention but don’t miss the gold-embroidered curtain for the door of the Holy Ka’ba and the mosaic inside the central dome detailing the zodiac constellations. https://www.visitsharjah.com/activities/culture/sharjah-islamic-museum/

Set in a restored 18th-century pearl merchant’s house, Sharjah Heritage Museum explores all aspects of Emirati culture, from religious traditions to living in the desert. There are six galleries covering the landscape, lifestyle, celebrations, livelihoods, traditional knowledge and oral traditions of the emirate. The museum presents plenty of interesting objects, including an aftakh – a golden toe ring worn by Bedouin women – with explanations in English and Arabic. Younger visitors will enjoy the engaging folk tales, proverbs and puzzles. https://www.visitsharjah.com/activities/heritage/sharjah-heritage-museum/

The Sharjah Maritime Museum was first opened in the Heritage Area in early 2003 to highlight the maritime life of the UAE. However, due to the importance of the sea and its significance in the region’s heritage, the museum was expanded and relocated in Al Khan in 2009. https://sharjahmydestination.ae/en-us/Explore-Sharjah/Museums

Sharjah Aquarium features 20 tanks that recreate different local aquatic environments, from coral reefs and rock pools to lagoons and mangroves. An indoor walkway allows up-close viewing of the marine animals in these habitats. For a family experience, try timing your visit with a scheduled fish feeding time or talk. Children will be delighted to learn more about the sea creatures and play on the interactive displays. The aquarium should be on the top of any list of things to with kids in Sharjah, especially for children’s edutainment. Families in Sharjah often bring kids here to learn about local marine life. If you’re planning the aquarium as one of your places to visit in Sharjah at night, make sure to catch the sunset at the beautiful Al Khan beach first. The views here are as beautiful but distinctively different from the Sharjah Corniche. Then, take a quick tour of the aquarium before it closes in the late evening. Your ticket includes entry to the Sharjah Maritime Museum next door, where you can learn about the coast in more detail than any other Sharjah museum. After visiting these destinations, you will have checked off three popular Sharjah tourist places. https://www.visitsharjah.com/activities/wildlife/sharjah-aquarium/

The Cultural Square features a 14-metre high pedestal with a sculpture of the Holy Quran. It is the centrepiece of the roundabout in the square, representing the spiritual heart of the city. The sculpture, which was designed by Spanish sculptor Marinas Rubias, is encircled by a number of stately buildings in typical Islamic architecture. These Sharjah buildings are of prominence in UAE history, particularly the Ruler’s Office and the Ahmad Bin Hanbal Mosque. Also in the square is the Cultural Palace, a place for concerts and events. When you’re in Sharjah next, make sure to drive by the cultural square. It is a key highlight of the many tourist places in Sharjah. Since the sculpture is at a roundabout, you can easily drive by it more than once. If you’re thinking of things to do with kids here, they will enjoy going around a few times in your car. Cultural Square is one of the popular places to visit in Sharjah with children, especially to learn about Islamic art. https://www.visitsharjah.com/activities/culture/cultural-square/

Over 500 butterflies live on Al Noor Island in the Butterfly House, one of the most popular tourist places in Sharjah. The Butterfly House itself is a feat of modern architecture, with the outdoor structure made of perforated steel and ergonomic design to let in sunlight. With temperature and humidity controlled interiors, the structure houses over 20 different species of butterflies, including the exotic Tailed Jay, Emerald Swallowtail, Pink Rose and Malachite. The house also has comprehensive information on the region’s native species. This destination has many fun things to do with kids in Sharjah, with a dedicated children’s area and an array of butterflies in different shapes, colours and sizes. Trying to spot camouflaged butterflies and watching newborns take flight is arguably among Sharjah’s most exciting summer activities for kids. To reach the Butterfly House, take the bridge to the island, which is just right across the water from the Al Noor Mosque; among the most striking Sharjah landmarks. Tour the displays of thought-provoking contemporary art and sculpture pieces. Then follow the boardwalk through a tropical botanical garden, one of the popular parks in Sharjah, and you’ll find the Butterfly House. It is hard to miss with the uniquely shaped steel glistening in the sunlight. End the day with a meal and drink at the organic cafe and find the perfect souvenir to take home. https://www.visitsharjah.com/activities/wildlife/al-noor-island-butterfly-house/