Iranian Tea: An Offer That You Cannot Refuse

It is hard to imagine breakfasts, social gatherings, business meetings, or negotiations in the Grand Bazaars in Iran without the presence of a cup of tea. Did you know that along with the beverage itself, the preparation and consumption of tea is an integral part of Iranian culture and daily life?

Iran has always been famous for its strong black tea which is often supplemented with aromatic spices as flavor. Tea production is a major industry in the Caspian Sea area and a large part of its economy. Iranian tea or Chaee as it is called in Persian, is a black tea which is prepared in a very specific manner. Using a double tea pot, the bottom of the pot is filled with water which is set on the flame to boil. Meanwhile the top pot is filled with dry tea leaves, typically one small spoonful per drinker. When the water has reached a boil some of it is transferred to the top pot and the tea is allowed to steep for 15 minutes, but generally no longer than 30 to avoid bitterness. Traditionally, tea is served from a samovar. Literally meaning “self-boiler”, the samovar is used to keep water hot for prolonged periods of time through a fuel-filled pipe in the middle of the structure that heats the contents surrounding it. Iranian tea comes in a variety of subtle flavors, but its defining characteristic is its deep reddish-brown color, which tea-drinkers can choose to dilute with water depending on their preference.  

As far as where is the best place to enjoy tea in Iran? There is no one best place. While traveling in Iran do not miss the The World's smallest tea house in Tehran Grand Bazaar.

The World's smallest Tea house in Tehran

Scrutinize Persian Art, from the Large to the Miniature

Iranian art has engendered great public interest and involvement, resulting in the consistent production of monumental and spectacular works. One of the most enduringly Persian art which is flourished in Safavid era is miniature. A richly detailed painting which depicts religious or mythological themes and can only be achieved with a very fine hand is known as miniature. These delicate, lush paintings are typically visually stunning and many of them are quite small, but they feature rich and complex scenes. Content and form are fundamental elements of Persian miniature painting, and miniature artists are renowned for their modest and subtle use of color. Many of the mythological creatures depicted in early Persian art, for example, bear a striking resemblance to animals in Chinese myth. Over time, however, Persian artists developed their own style, themes, and distinctive features. The allure of Persian miniature painting lies in its absorbing complexities and in the surprising way it speaks to large questions about the nature of art and the perception of its masterpieces. Mahmoud Farshchian, a world renowned master of Persian painting and miniatures, has played a decisive role in introducing Iranian miniature art to the international art scene.

Miniature painting of Chehelsotoon Palace,Isfahan

Choobi Bridge or Joobi Bridge: That is the Question

Bridges have long been constructed as a means of decoration, in addition to the convenience of transportation that they provide. Iran in particular, has several examples of beautifully designed bridges that are seen as icons in the world of construction and design.  While there are some bridges in Iran of different sizes, some are more famous than the others. One of the oldest bridges in Iran, with a simple structure is pol- choobi in Isfahan. The bridge is about 4 meters in width and 147 meters in length which is built between the two bridges of Si-o-se pol and Khaju Bridge .The Bridge which connected the royal gardens on the two sides of the river was a private pass way for the royal family and important visitors but not intended for public use. Windows of this building opens to different river sides and the visitors can get a spectacular view of the bridges from. The actual name is Joobi (having a raceway) which refers to the 21 water canals along the bridge which carried water to the other side. The current name Choobi, (Wooden) is the wrong pronunciation of the name which was popularized by the local people in the past century. If you are interested in visiting this footbridge, Uppersia suggests you to join Isfahan Free tour.

Choobi Bridge in Isfahan, Iran