Iran is a superb country in Western Asia with a population of over 81 million people. In fact, it is the 18th most populous country in the world. The country is home to some of the most beautiful architecture on the planet showcasing the Islamic commitment to perfection of beauty and exquisite architecture. The turquoise-tiled domes of the Shah Square will get so many appreciative gasps of wonder and the majestic landscapes will quench your holiday thirst. Don’t forget to carry a camera because there are a lot of sceneries that you will want to take pictures of. If you are traveling to this country for a historical tour, here is a list of amazing historical places in Iran that will surely stun you.
1. Walk down memory lane in Golestan Palace
The Golestan Palace is the former home to the royal family in Tehran which was used for several generations. It is one of the oldest historical landmarks in Tehran and has attained a World Heritage Status. Even better, this palace has a great architectural design and structure that will surely leave you speechless! From the golden detail of the entire place to the delicate carvings you will have a lot to marvel at. If you are visiting this city and you are looking for interesting attractions to check out, here is a starter!
Golestan Palace
Address: Tehran District 12 Fifth Khordad Avenue, Arg Sqr، Panzdah-e-Khordad St, Iran
Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 10-15 USD
Tip from Content Creator
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of royal buildings that were once enclosed within Tehran’s citadel. Aside from being the official residence of the Qajar dynasty in the 1700s, Golestan Palace was used as a formal reception during the Pahlavi era. The complex consists of 17 structures, including halls, museums, and palaces.
The Mirror Hall is one of the most famous halls in the palace. This relatively small hall is famous for its extraordinary mirror work. The hall was designed by Sanie ol Molk, a well-known Persian miniature artist.
The best way to get to Golestan Palace is to take the metro (it is located right next to the metro station at the Grand Bazaar of Tehran).
Here's a foodie tip: Once you're at the bazaar before or after your visit to the palace, try the best kabob of your life at Moslem Restaurant.
2. Take a tour to ancient Persepolis
Persepolis was a famous ancient capital, which is situated about an hour’s drive from the city to Shiraz in the Fars Province. Here, you will find the ruins of a city which will give you a clear picture of the early life of the city of Persepolis. It dates back to 518 BCE. What is even more interesting is the way the site has been preserved over the past generations. The archaeological remains are spread over a massive area and there are many hallways, rooms, staircases, and buildings to explore.
Persepolis
Address: 5 km from MarvDasht City, Persepolis 71364, Iran
Opening hours: 8am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 30 USD
3. Visit the ancient Ganjali Khan Square
Check out this amazing attraction that can be found in the heart of the old city of Kerman. The Ganjali Khan Complex is an architectural attraction that has great features that enthrall visitors. With its large curved ceilings and stylish finishing, it creates a superb view. This site was not only the center of the ancient city but also the center of the city’s culture and religion. Ganjalikhan Square was built in the Safavid era in the Isfahani style. Hire a well-informed guide and you will get more details about this amazing attraction. You might discover some amazing details that will blow your mind!
Ganjali Khan Square
Address: Kerman Province, Kerman
Opening hours: 7am - 9pm (daily)
Price: 25 USD
4. Visit the ancient site of Bisotun
Travel to the old archeological site of Behistun which is a large rock on a cliff at Mount Behistun inscribed with some old writings that date back to 500 BC. It is situated in the Kermanshah Province of Iran. It was commissioned by Darius I, The Great and narrates the stories around his life and rise to power. The inscriptions also talk about the detail of deaths that happened during his reign such as the death of Cyrus, The Great. There are many tours that take tourists to this ancient site.
Bisotun Archaeological Site
Address: Kermanshah, Iran
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 25 USD
5. Taste ancient power at Pasargadae
Pasargadae was the principal city of the Achaemenid Empire under Cyrus, The Great. It is stationed near the city of Shiraz, in Iran and is a historical site, one of Iran’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This tomb, made of limestone, is believed to be that of Cyrus, The Great and has been preserved since 500 BC to date. Plan a tour to this site with the help of a well-informed local guide who will give you finer details of how it was erected and more secrets about its existence.
Pasargadae
Address: Pasargad, Iran
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 7 USD
6. Check out the majestic Meidan Emam
Don’t forget to check out Meidan Emam, which is a square situated at the center of Isfahan, Iran and was erected in the 1500s. This pristine landmark has claimed its fame for its lush landscaping and beautiful architectural style that is adorned by the neighboring buildings. Even more, it has been recognized as an acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site which continues to marvel a lot of out-of-town travelers.
Meidan Emam
Address: Isfahan Province, Isfahan, نقش جهان، Iran
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Travel to Kandovan village
Kandovan village can be found in Sahand Rural District, in the Central District of Osku County, East Azerbaijan Province, Iran. This village has been made famous because of the presence of ancient manmade habitats on the cliffs which are still inhabited. With a well-informed guide, you will enjoy the ambiance of a great tour around the village with a stopover to take some great pictures.
Kandovan village
Address: East Azerbaijan Province
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
8. Admire ancient masterpieces at Soltaniyeh
The Soltaniyeh is an iconic historic town. It boasts of a beautiful mausoleum and has become one of the most scenic spots for tourists to visit. This beautiful structure was built in the 1300s and has been preserved perfectly to depict the rich ancient history of this place. Even better, there are modern structures which surround it that came after the city’s destruction giving visitors a clear understanding of what happened in the past and the connection it has to the present structures. Make sure to check out this place to learn more about the mysteries of this amazing place with a rich history!
Soltaniyeh
Address: Zanjan Province, Iran
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 50-80 USD
9. Marvel at Tughrul Tower
Tuğrul Tower is located in the eastern side of Ibn Babuyeh Tomb in the city of Rey in Tehran and has been standing since the 12th century. The 20 meters (65 feet) tall brick tower is the tomb of Seljuk ruler Tuğrul Beg, who died in Rey in 1063. Make sure to check out this tower while visiting Iran to check out its pristine beauty. Go with your friends, family or partner for this amazing learning tour and take your camera too for the memories.
Tughrul Tower
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: Free
10. Explore the magnificent palace at Ali Qapu
Ali Qapu is a palace that is situated near the Safavid palaces. ‘Ali Qapu’ means 'great gate’ and the name was given because of the location of the palace.The gate extends from the Naqsh-e-Jahan Square at one end to the Chahar Baq Boulevard at the other. There are many marvelous and ancient buildings in the vicinity too. The mansion has a large veranda on the third floor that gives visitors an unmatched panoramic view of the Naghsh-e-Jahan Square. This is where the king used to sit while he watched polo games and military shows.
Ali Qapu
Address: Ali Qapu Palace, Naghsh-e-Jahan Square, Isfahan, IRAN Isfahan
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 20 USD
Check out the ancient gems of Iran
Visit these great historical places in Iran and marvel at the ancient attractions that it’s adorned with. Put this country on your bucket list and plan a trip to go and unwind in an environment with a historical touch. Don’t forget to carry your camera because there will be a lot of marvels you will want to capture images of!
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