Isfahan

Isfahan is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Iran, and a must-see destination for any traveler. Isfahan was once the capital of the Persian Empire, and the center of art, culture, and trade. Today, Isfahan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a showcase of the finest examples of Persian architecture, gardens, bridges, and mosques. In this article, we will introduce some of the top attractions in Isfahan, where you can immerse yourself in the charm and glory of this ancient city.

Naqsh-e Jahan Square

Naqsh-e Jahan Square (UNESCO World Heritage Site), also known as Imam Square, is the heart and soul of Isfahan. This magnificent square, which measures 512 by 163 meters, is the second largest in the world, after Tiananmen Square in China. Naqsh-e Jahan Square is surrounded by four architectural masterpieces: the Shah Mosque, the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, the Ali Qapu Palace, and the Isfahan Grand Bazaar. You can spend hours admiring the beauty and details of these buildings, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the square, where locals and tourists gather to relax, shop, and have fun.

Shah Mosque

The Shah Mosque, also known as the Jameh Abbasi Mosque, is one of the most stunning mosques in the world, and a symbol of Isfahan. The mosque was built by Shah Abbas I in the 17th century, and is a masterpiece of Persian-Islamic architecture. The mosque has four iwans (porticos), a huge dome, two minarets, and a courtyard. The mosque is decorated with exquisite tile work, calligraphy, and geometric patterns, in various shades of blue, turquoise, and yellow. The mosque is also famous for its acoustics, which create a mesmerizing echo effect.

Ali Qapu Palace

Ali Qapu Palace is a six-story palace that was the residence and seat of government of the Safavid kings. The palace overlooks the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, and offers a panoramic view of the city. The palace is known for its elegant and unique features, such as the wooden columns, the spiral staircase, the music room, and the frescoes. The palace is also adorned with paintings by the famous Persian artist Reza Abbasi, who depicted scenes of court life, hunting, and festivities.

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is another jewel of Isfahan, and a masterpiece of Iranian architecture. The mosque was built by Shah Abbas I as a private mosque for his father-in-law, Sheikh Lotfollah, a prominent Islamic scholar. The mosque is distinguished by its single dome, which has no minarets or courtyard. The mosque is also remarkable for its intricate tile work, which changes color depending on the light. The interior of the dome is decorated with a peacock motif, which symbolizes the divine presence5.

Chehel Sotoun Palace

Chehel Sotoun Palace (UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a Persian pavilion in the middle of a park at the far end of a long pool. The palace was built by Shah Abbas II as a place for entertainment and receptions. The name Chehel Sotoun means “Forty Columns”, which refers to the reflection of the twenty wooden columns of the palace in the pool. The palace is famous for its wall paintings, which depict historical scenes, such as the battles of the Safavid kings, the reception of foreign dignitaries, and the royal celebrations.

Vank Cathedral

Vank Cathedral is the most important church in Isfahan, and the center of the Armenian community. The cathedral was built in the 17th century, after the Armenians were relocated to Isfahan by Shah Abbas I. The cathedral is a fusion of Armenian and Iranian styles, with a domed roof, a bell tower, and a courtyard. The interior of the cathedral is covered with colorful frescoes, which depict biblical stories, saints, and martyrs. The cathedral also houses a museum, which displays relics, manuscripts, and artworks related to the Armenian culture and history.

Khaju Bridge

Khaju Bridge is one of the most beautiful and iconic bridges in Isfahan, and a masterpiece of engineering and design. The bridge was built by Shah Abbas II in the 17th century, and spans the Zayandeh Rud River, which flows through the city.

The bridge has two levels, with 23 arches on the lower level, and 26 rooms on the upper level. The bridge also serves as a dam, with sluice gates to regulate the water flow. The bridge is a popular spot for locals and tourists, who enjoy the view of the river, the sunset, and the night lights.

Menar Jonban

Menar Jonban is a curious and fascinating attraction in Isfahan, and a testament to the ingenuity of the Iranian architects. The name Menar Jonban means “Shaking Minarets”, which refers to the phenomenon that occurs when one of the two minarets of the building is shaken, the other one shakes as well. The building was originally a tomb, built in the 14th century, and the minarets were added later. The reason behind the shaking minarets is still a mystery, but some theories suggest that it is due to the elasticity of the wood, the symmetry of the structure, or the resonance of the sound waves.