Welcome to Isfahan, the city of turquoise tiles and ancient secrets. Being
home to mesmerizing historic monuments built in Safavid dynasty, the beautiful
city of Isfahan is introduced as the most touristic city of Iran. This charm is
not something new. Since 400 years ago when Shah Abbas the Safavid king who
was interested in art, chose Isfahan as the capital of Iran and changed it into
a piece of heaven by building glorious palaces, mosques and gardens, this city
hosted many travelers, art lovers and historians. Here is the list of my own
favorite attractions and things to do in the lovely city of Isfahan:
Jaame mosque of Isfahan
According to Iranian architects and historians, Jaame mosque of Isfahan is
the alive university of Persian-Islamic architecture. This UNESCO world
heritage site is the result of continual constructions since 771 to the end of
20th century. Exploring Jaame mosque of Isfahan is like traveling to different
times of old Persia.
Jaame mosque of Isfahan. |
Vank Cathedral
Being constructed during the kingdom of Shah Abbas II in the Armenian Jolfa
district, Vank cathedral is one of the most interesting attractions of Isfahan.
The colorful paintings on the walls and ceiling of the cathedral, the museum of
the cathedral full of antique handwritten documents, old textiles and clothes
and 16th-century paintings about the crucifixion of Jesus amuses me for hours.
Vank Cathedral in Isfahan. |
Sheikh Lotfollah mosque
Although the wonderful Naqsh Jahan square is a world heritage site, Sheikh
lotfollah, this unique mosque located in the square has its own special place
in my heart. The corridor leading to the main hall of the mosque is ornamented
with intricate floral and arabesque motifs. Reaching to the main hall, every visitor will
be speechless for a moment. It is hard to believe that the motifs and ornaments
are done by humans. Sit in the middle of the hall, look up and enjoy the maze
of motifs spinning under the marvelous ceiling of Sheikh Lotfollah mosque.
Sheikh Lotfollah mosque in Isfahan. |
Handicrafs of Isfahan
Isfahan has been recently chosen as the Capital of handicrafts in the world.
The old Bazar of Isfahan, located around the Naqsh e Jahan Square is the
endless world of handicraft masterpieces done by local masters of Isfahan.
Ghalam Zani (the art of making copper crafts by a hammer), Firouzeh Kubi (the
art of placing turquoise stones on metal objects) and Ghalam kar (stamping
Persian motifs on textiles) are some of the handicrafts exclusively done in
Isfahan.
Ghalm Kar textiles of Isfahan. |
Doogh and Gooshfil
Tasting new food is for sure one of the most pleasant parts of traveling in
new destinations. Doogh and Gooshfil of Isfahan is one of the most exciting
snacks you can taste in Iran. Doogh is a Persian beverage made of sour and
salty yogurt and Gooshfil is a traditional dessert tasting like honey. It might
seem to be a weird mixture but Doogh and Gooshfil have done well together!
Doogh and Gooshfil in Isfahan. |
Beryuni
Beryuni is the famous classic dish of Isfahan. This is the mixture of
ground lamb, onions and peppers. The best place for ordering Beryuni is the
small restaurants in the Bazar, where you can sit and enjoy your tasty meal
with the locals. In most of Uppersia tours, like Iran Salam trip, Iran Silk Road tour, and Iran photography tour you will spend 2 or 3 days in the glorious city of Isfahan and touch the Persian beauties of this city.
Beryuni In Isfahan. |
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