About Isfahan
Wonder land of art and architecture Isfahan is a city in the center of Iran. A city where Iranian taste and art can be seen well in its monuments. From the distant past, Isfahan is known (Nesf e Jahan). Which in Persian means half the world. There are more than a handred historical and natural monuments in the city. Places with thousands of years of history, along with beautiful and attractive nature, make the city one of the most attractive tourist destinations. Isfahan Travel Guide will acquaint you with the rich history, fascinating cultural heritage, beautiful nature and unique handicrafts. Among the many historical attractions of this city that attract the attention of every tourist, we can mention the following places:
History of Isfahan
History of naming Isfahan
In the past, Isfahan was considered a gathering place for the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, hence it was called (Espahan), and over time the name was changed to Isfahan.
The founder of Isfahan was a man named Tahmourth, the third king of the Pishdadian dynasty.
The city of Isfahan has been of great importance in different historical periods and was often considered as a politically or economically important city. Among the most important periods of government in which the importance of Isfahan can be mentioned are the Achaemenid, Parthian and Sassanid, Seljuk, Safavid, Qajar and Pahlavi periods.
Customs
The customs of the people, like other regions of Iran, are special and diverse.
Among the customs of the people of Isfahan, we can mention the rose-picking ceremonies, Abrizan, shab Esfand and Jal Jalani.
Golab giri (Rose Distillation Festival)
Rose water has long been one of the fascinating and spectacular customs of the people of Isfahan and especially the people of Kashan.
This celebration will be held in late May, which is the harvest season for Mohammadi flowers.
Rose picking (Rose Distillation Festival) begins after picking Mohammadi flowers from the vast rose gardens of Kashan. The traditional rose hydrosol preparation ceremony draws large crowds from all over the country and tourists to Kashan, Ghamsar, Niasar and other cities in the neighborhood.
At this time, the smell of Mohammadi flowers fills everywhere. Because large pots are placed on the fire to make rose water.
shab Esfand and Jal Jalani
In Natanz and its villages, it is customary for children to gather in different groups on the nights of the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth of January. Each group burns on one of the hills and heights and the thorns and firewood they have already gathered. In such a way that the flames of the whole village light up.
They believe that if the fire reaches the trees, it will increase the fruit year. It also kills pests. Others believe that in order for the trees to bear more fruit, they go to cemeteries. They collect small and large stones and hang them on the branches of trees.
Abrizan celebration in Zayandehrud river
One of the most beautiful customs of the people of Isfahan, which unfortunately is not done today, is the custom of watering. This beautiful tradition is such that in one day, people from all social and religious classes gather along the Zayandehroud river.
In this custom, women go to the top of the bridge to watch. Men in old clothes go into the water and sprinkle water on each other.
Food in Isfahan
Due to the geographical and climatic location, there is a great variety of food in this city. Food that will satisfy every tourist. The best foods and attractive snacks are offered to you in the travel guide to Isfahan. So you will definitely find food according to your taste. Meat is also one of the main ingredients of traditional food. Most of the food in this city is served with bread.
One of the most popular foods is Biryani. Biryani is one of the local dishes of the province. The popularity of this food is such that all Iranians know this food.
This food looks like a hamburger. It is prepared from a combination of mutton neck, white mutton liver, spices, onions, salt, cinnamon, pepper and turmeric.
Another of the most popular appetizers is (khoresh mast). Which has a sweet and delicious taste.
Foods such as Gaz, Sohan and Poulaki are also very popular.
Doogh and Goosh Fil are among the foods that we should not forget when traveling to these cities. The sweet taste of Goosh Fil and sour taste of Doogh creates a new combination. That everyone should try them.
Geographical location OF Isfahan
Isfahan province, with its center in Isfahan, is one of the central provinces of Iran. Isfahan province is the third most populous province in Iran.
The most important cities of this province are Isfahan, Kashan, Khomeini Shahr and Najafabad.
Isfahan weather
Due to its location, the province has a temperate and arid semi-desert climate.
The north and east of the province have a desert climate and with moving to the south, it feels cooler.
The best time to visit Isfahan is spring and autumn. You will experience a pleasant journey in the spring, but this will be a busy season.
Culture in Isfahan
The existence of Zayandehrood River has caused different ethnic groups to live in this city. Each of the tribes has its own customs.
Isfahan’s customs have been influenced more than ever since the Safavid period. For this reason, in the field of art, religion, etc., there are always traces of Safavids.
The most famous cultural aspect of Isfahan is in the field of architecture and handicrafts. In such a way that turquoise domes and Islamic designs are always reminiscent of Isfahan.
The city is famous for its beautiful architecture, covered bridges, and unique mosques and minarets.
Poetry and music in Isfahan
The place of music in this city is not something to be doubted. Music has had such a valuable place in the historical period of Isfahan that musicians were present in the front rows of military parades. On the other hand, not only music but also song has had a special place in Iranian art. Isfahan song is one of the five songs of traditional Iranian music. Poetry, as one of the most important elements of music, has been very important in the music of this city. It is even said that even in the Safavid historical periods up to the present, the architecture of Isfahan has been inspired by music.
Handicrafts in Isfahan
Isfahan can be introduced as the cradle of Iranian handicrafts. Various and diverse arts that have made this city world famous in the field of handicrafts. Among the handicrafts, the following can be mentioned.
Carpet, inlay work, enamel work, turquoise carving and engraving are some of the arts of this city.
carpet
The variety of designs and colors has made Isfahan carpet one of the most original Iranian carpets.
Due to the interest of Safavid kings, especially Shah Ismail, Shah Tahmasb and Shah Abbas in the art of carpet weaving, the most exquisite silk and woven carpets have been woven by Isfahan artists with very beautiful designs.
Therefore, this period can be called the era of Iranian carpet glory.
Khatam Kari
Khatam Kari is done by carving on wood. This art is one of Isfahan’s export industries to other countries.
Enamel
Enamel is an Iranian handicraft that has a history of five thousand years. Enamel is done on copper or gold or silver and they draw different and beautiful designs on the dishes. And the most beautiful pottery can be found in this city.
The most important tourist Attractions of Isfahan, which represent the civilization of Iran.
Naghsh e Jahan Square
One of the most prominent historical monuments is Naghsh e Jahan square. Naghsh e Jahan Square is in the center of the city and the beating heart of the Naghsh e Jahan historical complex.
The design of this historical monument has been done by the best and most tasteful Iranian architects. Architects who have exhibited the original Iranian art in the best way in this building. Naghsh e Jahan Square is made in a rectangular shape. In the middle of this field there is a large pool. This pool has given this place a beautiful and royal sight.
There are markets around it with more than 2000 rooms.
Atiq Square
Atiq Square is 800 years old. This square is located in the city center. Its main building belongs to the Seljuk period. This square is much older than Naghsh e Jahan Square. Before Naghsh e Jahan, it was the main square of the city.
Aali Qapo Palace
From other scenic areas around this place, you can see the mansion (Aali Qapo). Aali Qapo Mansion is known as the most luxurious and beautiful royal palaces in the Safavid capital. The palace (Aali Qapo) is known as the tallest palace of the Safavid era. The mansion (Aali Qapo) has a prominent and remarkable architecture. The mansion has been made difficult by famous Iranian artists. This place attracts many domestic and foreign tourists for various reasons.
The main foundations of this mansion are built of wood. This type of architecture is due to the attractiveness of the palace (Aali Qapo). Another unique feature of the palace is the number of different floors in each facade of the mansion. Simply put, the palace is built in such a way that if we look at the exterior from all sides, we see different floors.
Chehel sotoon Palace
Chehel sotoon Palace is an example of a royal garden from the Safavid period.
The palace has twenty columns, but is famous for its forty columns due to the reflection of the columns in the water. Although the palace has been badly damaged over the years, it is still considered a magnificent monument over the years.
you can read more about Chehel Sotoon palace.
Hasht Behesht Mansion
This magnificent mansion belongs to the Safavid period. The decorations of the palace at that time were so beautiful and artistic that every tourist admired all its beauty. In the middle of the mansion hall, there is an octagonal pool made of marble, which is known as the pearl pool. This pool has given a special effect to this place. Its doors and windows are also inlaid. Which has increased the beauty of this mansion.
Sheikh Lotfollah mosque
The mosque (Sheikh Lotfollah) is one of the historical monuments of the Safavid era. The mosque is located in Naghsh e Jahan Square. This mosque has delicate and beautiful tiles. The seven-color tiles inside the mosque create an extraordinary image.
Another wonder of this mosque is the one-piece entrance door. This door is made of 400-year-old sycamore tree. One of the characteristics that exists in most mosques of Isfahan and also exists in this mosque, is the seven-fold reflection of sound.
Atiq Grand Mosque
This mosque is the oldest historical building in Isfahan. You can rad more about the Isfahan Jame mosque. The date of construction of this mosque belongs to the Seljuk era. The main feature of the mosque is having multiple entrances. These inputs are not all built at the same time. Each of the inputs was made on a different date.
Monar Jonban
Old minarets with amazing and special architecture are other historical attractions of Isfahan province. These minarets show the art and special ability of Iranians well. Each minaret in turn represents the unique Iranian art and architecture. Travel guide to Isfahan introduces you the most famous minarets.
Monar(minaret) Jonban
Monar Jonban can be called a special example of minarets. Monar Jonban is one of the examples of Mongol style buildings in Iran. The tiles of the building belong to this period. Some of the minarets in Iran, despite their high strength, shake in place. The most interesting point of this historical monument is that by shaking one of the minarets, not only the other minaret shakes, but the whole building vibrates.
Sheikh Baha'i Bath
Another mysterious place is the large and mysterious bath. This bath belongs to the Safavid era. The bath was built by the great scientist, Sheikh Baha’i. The architecture of this bathroom is unique. All water heating in this bath was done only by a flame. The flame that unfortunately has now been extinguished.
Fire temple(Marbin Castle)
Fire temple is also known as Marbin Castle. It is a beautiful and original building left from the Sassanid era. At that time, this place was used for Zoroastrian worship. A special place to keep the fire burning forever.
Monar Jonban
Old minarets with amazing and special architecture are other historical attractions of Isfahan province. These minarets show the art and special ability of Iranians well. Each minaret in turn represents the unique Iranian art and architecture. Travel guide to Isfahan introduces you the most famous minarets.
Monar(minaret) Jonban
Monar Jonban can be called a special example of minarets. Monar Jonban is one of the examples of Mongol style buildings in Iran. The tiles of the building belong to this period. Some of the minarets in Iran, despite their high strength, shake in place. The most interesting point of this historical monument is that by shaking one of the minarets, not only the other minaret shakes, but the whole building vibrates.
Sheikh Baha'i Bath
Another mysterious place is the large and mysterious bath. This bath belongs to the Safavid era. The bath was built by the great scientist, Sheikh Baha’i. The architecture of this bathroom is unique. All water heating in this bath was done only by a flame. The flame that unfortunately has now been extinguished.
Fire temple(Marbin Castle)
Fire temple is also known as Marbin Castle. It is a beautiful and original building left from the Sassanid era. At that time, this place was used for Zoroastrian worship. A special place to keep the fire burning forever.
Vank Cathedral (Church)
Vank Church is the largest and most famous church in Iran. This place is also the Armenian Cathedral of Isfahan.
One of the most important attractions of Vank Church, which attracts everyone, is the great influence of the works of great artists in this church. This historical monument is distinguished from other Iranian churches for various reasons: simple and beautiful architecture, unique paintings and the antiquity of Vank Church. The interior architecture of Vank Church is unique in terms of gilding and murals. You will not find such a church in the world with this magnificent architecture.
Bethlehem Church
Bethlehem Church is another church in Jolfa neighborhood.
This church was built during the Safavid era. The beautiful architecture of this church has made this church one of the 23 most beautiful churches in the world.
Si o se pol bridge
It is a bridge that is built on Zayandehrood river. This bridge is a unique masterpiece of the reign of Shah Abbas I.
This place is one of the main symbols of Isfahan. The reflection of the image of the bridge in the water creates a beautiful view. It fascinates and amazes every tourist.
Many tourists, such as Sykes (si o se pol) Bridges, consider it a masterpiece of Iranian architecture and have called it one of the world’s classy bridges.
Khajoo Bridge
Khajoo Bridge is one of the historical bridges located on Zayandehrood River. This bridge dates back to the Safavid era.
Shahrestan Bridge
Shahrestan Bridge is one of the sights of Isfahan. This bridge is the oldest bridge in the city on the Zayandehrood River. According to researchers, the foundation of this bridge dates back to the Sassanid period; But it has Achaemenid roots and bases.
Caesarea Bazaar
This bazaar, which belongs to the Safavid era, is built on two floors. And at that time it was the largest and most luxurious market in Isfahan. Caesarea Bazaar is the best place to buy and see unique handicrafts.
City Center Shopping Center
City Center is one of the most modern and stylish shopping centers in Isfahan. This shopping center consists of 7 floors. The upper three floors are commercial units and the last two floors are cinema hall, gymnasium, restaurant, food court and amusement park. The amusement park is the largest indoor amusement park in the Middle East.
Soffeh Mountain
Soffeh Mountain is one of the other spectacular and attractive places around Isfahan. When you go to the top of Safa Mountain, you will see the whole city. Among the entertainments of Soffeh Mountain, we can mention cable cars and mountaineering.
Mesr Desert
There is a desert village in Isfahan province called Mesr with a population of about 120 people. Many tourists come to this area every year.
One of the desert beauties of this region is the yellow and very soft sand dunes.
The nights of the Mesr desert are so great that you must see it up close. Seeing the stars at night in this charming desert village will be very enjoyable.
Ab Malakh Waterfall
The waterfalls around Isfahan are extraordinary. One of the most important waterfalls is called locust water. Ab Malakh waterfall is also known as Takht-e Soleiman. This waterfall is one of the most dangerous and at the same time beautiful and spectacular waterfalls in Iran.
Mesgarha Bazaar
Mesgarha Bazaar is one of the oldest bazaars in the city. It dates back to the Safavid era and the reign of Shah Abbas.
This bazaar also represents Iranian architecture. One of the attractions of the bazaar is hearing the sound of a hammer hitting copper. The sale and manufacture of copper utensils has made this bazaar attractive to tourists.
Chaharbagh School
Chaharbagh School is one of the historical schools. It is also called Madarshah’s school. It is said that Chaharbagh school was also a mosque. This school has very beautiful tiles. The door is also made of gold and silver. This is a masterpiece in architecture. Next to the school, there is an inn attached to it.
This caravanserai was used about three centuries ago and was a place for travelers to stay. The name of this caravanserai was “Caravanserai of the King’s Mother”;
But today its name has been changed to Abbasi Caravanserai. It can be said that this caravanserai is one of the best and most exclusive residence.
Varzeneh Desert
One of the most beautiful places is Varzaneh. Varzaneh is known as the city of white-clad angels, because the women of this city all wear a white one-handed chador.
Numerous historical monuments make Varzaneh one of the most important cities near Isfahan. Varzaneh is one of the best places for desert tourism.
At the End
Travel guide to Isfahan, the land of wonders of art and architecture, will be your best travel guide. A guide that introduces you to all the attractions of this city. Travel to a city with a long history. Isfahan’s ancient history and unique and valuable architecture have made these buildings a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Monuments, attractive nature, delicious food and rich culture that attracts the attention of every tourist from all over the world.
Definitely, by traveling to Isfahan and seeing its attractive landscape, you will never forget this memorable trip.