Zayandehrud River

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Zayandehrud River

There are ways to spend an afternoon better. Strolling along the Zayandeh River, crossing back and forth on the river’s 11 bridges – or even meandering along the often empty riverbed itself are some of them.  It is especially pleasant at sunset and in the early evening when most of the bridges, five of which date back to the Safavid era, are brilliantly lit.

All but one of the historic Safavid-era crossings lie to the east of Chahar Bagh Abbasi St – the exception is the shorter Pol-e Marnan (Marnan Bridge) – but most people satisfy themselves with the walk from Pol-e Si-o-Seh (Si-o-Seh Bridge) to Pol-e Khaju (Khaju Bridge), and back. Traditionally, Esfahanis  stop to drink tea and enjoy a qalyan at one of the atmospheric teahouses on the Khaju, Chubi and Si-o-Seh bridges.

(Source: lonelyplanet.com)

Overview

Opening Hours

7/24

Location

Isfahan, Iran

Contact

(+98) –

Price

Free

Shahrestan Bridge

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Shahrestan Bridge

Out of all the bridges in Isfahan, Shahrestan Bridge is The oldest bridge on Zayandehrud River. This bridge is 107.8 m long and an average of 5.2 m wide. Dating back to the Sasanid Era, Shahrestan Bridge was built close to the ancient hill called Ashraf. With the 13 arches in the bottom and 8 on the top, this bridge has an imposing structure with two levels of arches. The bridge was constructed in this way to quicken the passage of water.

Parabolic shapes of the Shahrestan Bridge

The vertical parabolic structure of it would take the pressure away while the caravans where passing through the bridge with their cargo. This means that the middle point of the bridge is the highest compared to other parts. The horizontal parabolic feature creates a bend to the west side of the bridge. This strengthen the bridge against the river flow.

The history of Shahrestan Bridge

It has been said that Shahrestan Bridge was used for military purposes during a period of time in the past. This bridge has been renovated 4 times. The renovation done during the 10th century was in a way that the bridge is now very close to how it would have during Sasanid era.

Visiting this iconic bridge surrounded by parks and amazing landscape is hard to beat for a relaxing day trip. Shahrestan Bridge was inscribed on Iran’s National Heritage List in 1970.

Overview

Opening Hours

7/24

Location

Salman Farsi St. Bozorgmehr Sq. Isfahan, Iran

Contact

(+98) –

Price

Free

From Saeb Tabrizi Maussoleum to Shahrestan Bridge

€29.00

Isfahan in 5 days

€159.00

Varzaneh Desert

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Varzaneh Desert

Varzaneh Desert in southeastern Isfahan, the desert is located 100 km in the east of Isfahan.  Enjoying the pleasure of walking along the wetland, you can experience desert trails on dunes with an area of 1700 hectares. A city where all its streets go down to Zayanderud river.

Varzaneh Desert is the most accessible desert in Isfahan city, and the unsurpassed breadth of sand dunes in various shapes and sandy landscapes above the slopes of the sand is incontestable. It’s an ideal place for stargazing at night and much more that you will find out by yourself.

Special Species Residing in Varzaneh Desert

One of the most original natural landscapes of Varzaneh is the watery ecosystem with the dryland of Gavkhuni international wetland. Gavkhuni wetland is like a jewel in the central desert of Iran. Some special species of plants are able to grow there including soap root, salsola, reed and different species of tamarisk. Among the birds, are species of blackcock and bittern, as well as storks, herons, gulls, flamingos and ducks cover the wetland’s periphery. In the past, suitable grass coverage made the swamp a rich wildlife region and an important habitat for Persian zebra.

What Is Sand Therapy?

Sand therapy, walking on the sand dunes, cycling, riding an all- terrain vehicle (ATVs), off-roading, skiing on the sand and camel trekking are the tourism capacities of the desert. The beauty of the desert is tied to its boundless calmness and the silence that surrounds all the depths of human existence.

The City of White Dressed Angels

Unique to Varzaneh, are the local women’s costumes. They wear completely white chadors, while women in the rest of Iran, mostly wear black chadors. Many local people speak an ancient Pahlavi sasani dialect.

The other historical attractions of Varzaneh city include:

  • Gav chah
  • Asyab shotor
  • Karbafy workshop
  • Arg-e Ghurtan
  • Wetland Gavkhuni

Overview


Opening Hours

Daily Hours: 12 AM – 11:59 PM

Location

Varzaneh, Isfahan Province, Iran

Price

Free

Explore Varzaneh Desert on these Suggested Tours

Varzaneh Desert

Varzaneh Desert Tour

€46.00

Takht-e Foulad Cemetery

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Takht-e Foulad Cemetery

The most sacred cemeteries of the Islam World

In the south east of Isfahan, there lays one of the oldest historic cemetery of Islamic world. Namely, this cemetery is one of the holiest among Al-Baaghi in Medina, Abotaleb in Mecca, and Wadi-Salaam in Najaf.  This graveyard is known to be a pre-Islamic one since the tomb of Yusha, (who may be the Biblical Joshua), the Jewish prophet, is laid there.

Jean Chardin impression of Takht-e Foulad

The growth of Takht-e Foulad cemetery during the time of Shah Abbas the second (Shah Suleiman) was noticeable. Jean Chardin (French, 1643-1713) is one of the witnesses of this fact. On his journey to Isfahan, he cited over 400 Takyas (sections of the cemetery), monasteries and other structures in the cemetery. In part of his travel account he has mentioned all different parts of Takht-e Foulad.

“The entire area and surroundings of the mausoleums are filled with guest houses, monasteries, takyas, and gardens. A small creek and two huge morgues….”.

Whispered tales of the past

Next to the cemetery, there is a caravanserai belonging to the safavid era which used to be a place for caravans (entering Isfahan from the south) to rest before entering the city. also, it was a place for the gatherings of the Sufis in a monastery.

During safavid era, Takht-e Foulad was specially built for burring courtiers and figures of science and culture. Then, it became a public cemetery during Shah sultan Hossein reign (the last years of Safavid era). Actually, the demolition of Takht-e Foulad began during his reign. Then, it went further during the reign of Fathali Shah (Qajar dynasty). However, he added a complex named madar Shah to this garden of remembrance. It appears that, most of the destructions happened during the time of Zelol Sultan.

Why should there be a scissor or a hair comb sculptured on a gravestone?

Of its main characteristics are the range of variety and notable figures and writings inscribed on the gravestones. They depict history in an artistic way.

As an example, depending on the professions of the people, their gravestones were patterned. As for the barbers there were patterns of scissor or hair comb sculptured on the grave.

Overview


Opening Hours

Daily Hours: 12 AM – 11:59 PM

Location

Takht-e Foulad Cemetery, Feiz St., Isfahan, Iran

Price

Free

Explore Takht-e Foulad Cemetery on these Suggested Tours

Isfahan in 5 days

€159.00

Juei Bridge

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Juei Bridge

Juei Bridge is among the bridges which were constructed during the safavid era and Shah Abbas the second reign. The Juei Bridge is also known as Choobi (wooden) bridge among the locals. This bridge has 21 arch-shaped sluices. It is 145.7 m long and 4.1 m wide. The bridge used to connect the royal gardens which were placed on the sides of the bridge. Royal gardens such as Saadat Abad, Haftdast, Aeineh Khaneh, and Namakdan which no longer exist. This bridge is placed between the two magnificent Sio-Se-Pol and Khaju Bridges.

Juei means ”with a duct”. According to resources, there was a duct with a copper cover on its surface which was used to prevent water leakage to lower vaults.

The water level in Zayandeh Rud river was high enough for boating when the canals were blocked. The royal family would take seats in the Shahneshins to watch the boating matches and fireworks. Shahneshins are the special places that were used by the king and his guests to seat and watch the celebrations. Today, these two Shahneshins are turned into cozy cafes. Grab a table or a seat to relax for some time under the Juei Bridge.

Overview


Opening Hours

Daily Hours: 12 AM – 11:59 PM

Location

Kamal Smaeel St., Isfahan, Iran

Price

Free

Explore Juei Bridge on these Suggested Tours

Isfahan in 3 days

€91.00

Isfahan in 5 days

€159.00

Chahar Bagh Complex

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Chahar Bagh Complex is a master piece of architecture, comprised of three main monuments which are Chahar Bagh school, Bazaar of Art and a Caravanserai. Certainly, this complex is exquisite in the history of architecture.

Chahar Bagh Theological School

Chahar Bagh School

Chahar Bagh School is named after the last Safavid king, Shah Sultan Hossein. In some European travel records this school is mentioned as Madrasah Madar-Shah (king’s mother’s school). Although, there is no legitimate written claim of this fact. This monument is considered as the last one of the Safavid era. The school is a master piece of tile work with a garden-like appearance. It has four iwans with 121 rooms. Today, this monument houses a theological college. The Safavid king himself had a room there which he used for his studies. The room is open to visitors. It is equipped with king’s furniture and belongings.

In the center of the courtyard there is a marble pool which is filled with the water that comes from one of the branches of Zayand-e Rud river. This school is actually a part of a splendid complex with a Caravanserai and the Bazaar of Art.

Bazaar of Art

Bazaar Honar

The northern part of the school Opens to Bazaar of Art or as Iranian would call it, Bazaar Honar. The Bazaar was used as a place where supplies for the Caravans could be purchased. Nowadays, it is used as Isfahan’s Gold and jewelry shop.

Caravanserai or Abbasi Hotel

Abbasi Hotel

Abbasi Hotel used to be a 17th century caravanserai. It has been renovated to a magnificent Hotel. This 300-year-old building is placed in the midst of the city of Isfahan. It was built in Safavid-era under the orders of Shah Sultan Hossein. The authentic architecture of this hotel reflects the simplicity and strength of the glory and grandeur of Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

Overview

Visit Iran During Ramadan

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Almost most of the Muslims living in Iran or around the world look forward to the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan is known as the holy month of fasting, spiritual reflection, charity and protecting oneself from sins. Every year many tourists visit Iran to see into and to be present at the divine ceremonies held during this holy month.

What Is the Philosophy Behind Ramadan?

As you might already know, the holy book and the miracle of the Islam world is the holy book of Quran. In Quran, it has been said that:

Believers, fasting is decreed for you as it was decreed for those before you, perchance you will be cautious. (183, Baghareh)

Accordingly, God has decreed Muslims to fast during one month of the year. Still, there is this question that why should Muslims fast anyway?

To begin with, Imam Sadeq, the sixth imam of Shias, has said that the fast is intended to remind Muslims of the suffering of those less fortunate. In fact, fasting is a lesson about equality in the society.

On top of that, fasting is good for the overall health of a human being. The digestion system can relax with fasting. Today, many scientists believe that the key to the cure of many diseases is fasting. Although, the challenge is more spiritual rather than physical.

During Ramadan, Muslims feel closer to God. Statics show that there is a huge decrease in crime commitment during this month which is a consequent of the effects of feeling closer to God and the ability to preserve oneself from sins and cruelty.

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Fasting Experience

Fasting has its own costumes with Muslims abstaining from eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset. Muslims have a predawn meal called the ”Saheri”. Then, they fast all day until sunset when the time of ”Iftari” comes. At sunset, they break their fast with a sip of boiled water and some dates.

The month of Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was sent down. Event halls, mosques and homes around the city come to life with a holy and divine atmosphere. One of the special ceremonies during Ramadan is the Ghadr night meaning the night of destiny.

During these nights, Muslim pray all night. They believe that during Ghadr night the destiny of their life till the next year will be written. If you are visiting Iran during Ramadan, do not miss the opportunity of taking part in these ceremonies.

What to Eat in Ramadan?

The two main and only meals of Ramadan are Saheri and Iftari. Saheri is eaten before sunrise and it is the most nutritious meal of the day to keep Muslims going through the day. The second meal is called Iftari which is eaten after sunset.

To Do & Not to Do

Fasting is only for a certain number of days. One who is sick or on a journey has to fast the same number of days at another time. Those who can afford a redemption should feed a poor person. Good deeds performed on one’s own initiative will be rewarded. However, fasting is better and will be rewarded. Would that you knew this. (184, Baghareh)

In Quran it has been mentioned that there is no obligation for travelers to fast. If you are traveling to Iran during Ramadan, you are not obligated to fast. It is only a matter of respect. The hotels and places of your accommodation are at your service during Ramadan.

Many Muslims break their fast outside of their house. Restaurant and café’s work hours are from sunset until the middle of the night. Although, there are some exceptions and many of the restaurants around the city are open for service during the day. After breaking the fast at sunset, the city comes to life with different activities. Ramadan nights are splendid in their own way.