Soltaniye Dome

 Situated in the province of Zanjan, Soltaniyeh dome is one of the outstanding examples of the achievements of Persian architecture and a key monument in the development of its Islamic architecture. The octagonal Soltaniyeh dome is crowned with a 50 meter tall dome covered in turquoise-blue faience and surrounded by eight slender minarets. It is also known as the largest brick dome in the world and the Mausoleum of Ilkhan Oljaytu. The 8 porches and the 8 minarets are inspired by the 8 legendary doors of paradise and are ornamented with stunning brickworks. It is the earliest existing example of the double-shelled dome in Iran. The mausoleum’s interior decoration is also outstanding and scholars have described the building as ‘anticipating the Taj Mahal’.This dome is absolutely one of the masterpieces of Persian- Islamic architecture which is inscribed as a world heritage site by the UNESCO. The hemispherical structural style of domes were adopted by many civilizations in different period of time. Today it is one ofthe most familiar architectural styles and it continues to use for decorating temples, churches, mosques, monuments and even government buildings. If you are interested in visiting one of the most incredible domes in the world, we will accompany you. Just check out Zanjanworld heritage tour.

Karimkhan citadel

 Karimkhan citadel

While getting ready to travel to Iran, you will notice there are lots of authentic landmarks and monuments to visit in each part of the nation. Shiraz is also an antiquated city with several ancient attractions still remaining in good conditions. The Citadel of Karimkhan, one of the most magnificent fortresses in Iran, is a remarkable example of the 18th century combination of two military and residential architectures. The most important building of Zand dynasty is a square-shaped citadel located in the center of Shiraz. It was built as part of a complex and is named after Karim Khan, and served as his living quarters.  

It has four circular towers on the corners, one of which on the southeastern side has a distinctive slope. The citadel is spread over 5 hectares and the height of each tower is 14 meters. There is a large tile depicting the scene of killing of the white devil by Rostam, a hero of Shahnameh, at the entrance gateway of the citadel. Actually, the ornamented decoration of building is typical of that era. At times, the citadel was used as a prison. Today, it is a museum operated by Iran's Cultural Heritage Organization. While traveling in Shiraz, do not hesitate to offer yourself this masterpiece of architecture which is registered as a National heritage site.

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.

Wrestling in Iran

 Wrestling is one of the most well-known sports that has been held in different forms since ancient times. On the vast continent of Asia, the sport of wrestling has always been popular among the tribes, but the prevalence of this sport in Mongolia - Japan, Iran and India - is still higher than in other parts of Asia. As the history of wrestling in Iran dates back to Safavid and Zandieh era, there are almost no tribes and villages and cities in Iran that are not familiar to this sport. Because of those sports' roots in the pre-Islamic Varzesh-e-Bastani tradition, Iranian might do particularly well in wrestling competion. Since old times in Iran, there have been wrestling and lifting athletics in every city and town who were known for their heroic and helpful ego, therefore wrestling has always been connected with morality and positive athletic behavior.

 

 

Iranian Bath

 For Iranian, having a bath in addition to cleansing the body, is a religious ritual. In all pre-Islamic religions like Zoroastrianism bathing was one of the necessary conditions of participating in ceremonies. Many signs of the existence of baths were found in Persepolis by archeologists, and it was concluded that the construction of public baths was common in all cities of Iran since the Achaemenid era.

The architecture of these bathrooms or Hammams arevery different from the design of modern bathrooms. In the old days, the bathroom was composed of four parts called Sardine, Garmkhane, Khazine and Chalhoz, and those who had to enter the bathroom had to pass through these spaces; each of them has its own therapeutic properties. In Sardineh, which has a cool and dry space in the bathroom, people still had their clothes on, and at the time they came to greet and chat with other people to purify their souls as well as their bodies. Alongside Sardinah, however, there was the main bathroom space called Garmkhane with a warm and dry texture, which in fact was a space for bathing and having massage. After this, there was a warmer and more natural space called Khazine and thereafter it was a cold water pool which was named chalhoz. There was a strict rule saying that the water of Khazine and Chalhoz should be entered on one side and out of the other side so that the water inside of these two pools would remain constantly clean, which if they were not, they considered the bathroom unhealthy. Enjoying a warm Iranian bath is a unique cultural experience. For first timers it may be a little daunting, but once you get used to it, the Iranian bath often becomes an addiction; relaxing, healing, and regenerating its followers. 

While you are in Kerman and Shiraz, don’t hesitate to visit Ganjali khan Hammam of Kerman or Vakil Bath of Shiraz where suggest you the relaxed and alive atmosphere of Persian Hammams.

Ali Qapoo Palace

 Built at the very end of the 16th century, Ali Qapu, is one of the most magnificent palaces of the Persian Empire’s Safavid Era. This six-storied monument is located on the western side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square opposite to Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and had been originally designed as a vast portal. The elegant Ali Qapu mansion on the sixth floor has a large completely plastered hall, which is also known as the music hall. The interweaving beauty of architecture and science of acoustics performed in this hall, proves the ingenuity of Iranian architects. This hall’s ornamentation is a smart decorative invention of Safavid era, based on the physical recognition of the sound and its reflective characteristic. Besides providing beauty to this glorious hall, this jar-shaped cornicescaused the sound of music to spread more clearly and vividly. In ceremonies and feasts Iranian music masters gathered in music hall and played heavenly music pieces by traditional music instruments such as setar, kamancheh, tonbak, daf and etc. This magical hall still echoes the sounds of Iranian history and peaceful culture. Walk through the ancient yet alive remains of Naqsh e Jahan Square and touch the memories of Safavid days in Isfahan.

 

Things to Do in Ian

 

Things to do in Iran

Iran has an amazingly rich and varied history, visible in the supreme Islamic architecture of Isfahan and Shiraz, the ancient Achaemanid capital of Pasargadae and the splendid bas-reliefs of the Palace of Persepolis.

Once you meet Iranians, you get that it is a very different place than the Iran you know from the news. Read ahead for the best things to do in Iran, along with some insider tips that will make your trip a real eye-opener

 

Wander bazars

Bazaars are the beating heart of every city in Iran. A visit to the Grand Bazaar in Tehran is bound to overwhelm your senses with the smell of spices, sights of colourful Persian carpets, and friendly smiles. Iranian bazaars are more than a place to shop for souvenirs; each one is uniquely designed with mosques, tea houses, bathhouses and traditional restaurants where you can spend a good couple of hours.

               

Try Persian dishes

To experience the flavourful and aromatic food of Iran, make your way to traditional Iranian restaurants or better yet, Persian homes. The culinary delights of Persian food are endless, elevated by coveted ingredients including saffron and pistachios which are native to Iran

 

Walk through the history of Persepolis

A trip to Iran is not complete without a visit to Persepolis, which is only an hour drive from Shiraz. The First Persian Empire was once one of the most powerful empires in history, and its capital, Persepolis, remains as a symbol of its glory today. 

 

Visit Yazd city as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The desert city of Yazd in central Iran is an UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a rather unique experience compared to other cities. Here, be prepared to get lost in the charming mud-brick old town, learn about Zoroastrianism in the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, and go rooftop hopping for some unforgettable views.

Why Iran is an Ideal Destination for Health Tourism

 Iran is one of the world’s leading Health Tourism destinations. In addition to the available high-quality facilities, medical tourists have access to thermal spas and health care programs that incorporate five-star hotel accommodation into their package. Iran has been a popular destination for medical tourists from European countries and other countries as well as the Middle East.

 

One of the top popular countries for medical tourism today is Iran. Many foreigners visit Iran just to take advantage of their excellent medical treatment and care services. Overall, a considerable per cent of the country’s patients are medical tourists especially from Arabic countries!

 

The country has an affordable healthcare system and most doctors, having trained in Europe and America, choose to practice and take up their residency in their own countries.

While some countries are popular for certain types of treatment, Iran is different. People around the world travel to Iran for various reasons, such as hair transplants, cancer treatments, dental treatments, and more. 

 

If you need an option for your surgery or special treatment, do consider Iran.

Solo Traveling in Iran

 Solo travel is on the rise, and thanks to recent development inglobal awareness, it’s easier than ever. More and more travellersare hitting the road alone, ready to learn about the world and themselves. 

If you're planning on solo travelling to Iran but are unsure how to travel, below is a summary including what to do there.

 

Iran is a destination like no other. From the hustle and bustle of Tehran, to the stunning desert landscape of central cities offers Iranian nights, desert safaris and sleeping under the stars in camps.

 

Iran attracts solos with an interest in history and culture. Being part an important part of the ancient Silk Road makes it one of the best countries to visit in the Middle East for history. Iranians are incredibly friendly and are some of the most hospitable people you will encounter. You’ll receive so many dinner invitations, you won’t know which ones to choose.

 

Iran is a country where you feel very welcomed and safe, but it can be uncommon for women to travel alone here, so expect curious locals. Because it is An Islamic country, wear a scarf to keep covered and blend in. 

 

Street Food in Iran

 One of the greatest joys of traveling in Iran is to go walk its abundant night markets that open up at nights, with street food trucks and stalls across the capital, Tehran. These little pockets of night market are home to all the greatest street food Iran has to offer, and there are a ton of them you should try.

 

If you have the chance to travel around Iran, you can try street food rather having dinner in a restaurant. Every city you go, they have night markets with plenty of street food for one to try. Why settle for one dish when you can have 5.

 

Grilled liver and other kebabs

Liver food is a popular street food of Iranians, which was considered as a luxury and nutritious street food. The sale of this food was mostly done in recreational areas or some famous areas. Liver Sellers skewered some of the liver and grilled it. Also, very tasty kebabs are cooked.

Baked beans (Baghali Garmak), one of the most famous street foods in Iran

Another snack or in other words healthy snacks of the Iranian people is cooked beans. Hot beans are served in special containers. Then, special spices such as red pepper and thyme are used on it. The peak of bean sales is in the winter, when people are looking for a hot and tasty food.

 

Cooked beets and turnips

As you know, beets and turnips are very suitable for treating diseases and colds in the cold season. In many cities of Iran, as soon as the weather cools down, beet sellers or turnip sellers take to the streets in their own carts. The beetroot cart is kept warm under charcoal or heating so that the beets do not cool down and cook slowly.

 

samosas

Experts believe that samosas first went to India from Iran and then re-entered the Iranian food culture. Samosas have many fans and are prepared differently in each city of Iran. Some people use fish, meat or poultry to make samosas. Others flavored vegetables and used them as ingredients in samosas

 

Falafel as a delicious, simple and light food that is offered to the customer at a more reasonable price than other foods. The most famous falafels belong to Khuzestan province, Ahvaz city. In Ahvaz, the business of selling falafel in different neighborhoods has grown so much and has been welcomed by the people of Ahvaz, travelers, students and others.