Shahrestan Bridge

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

Varzaneh Desert

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

Takht-e Foulad Cemetery

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

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Juei Bridge

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

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Marnan Bridge

Marnan Bridge

Marnan Bridge, also known as Marbin Bridge, is one of the bridges in Isfahan that somehow has similar stone Foundations as Shahrestan Bridge. The piers of the two bridges have many similarities. This bridge is 186 m long and 4.8 m wide. What makes this bridge different from the Shahrestan Bridge is the upper part of the bridge which is made of brick. This part belongs to the 17th century and safavid era. The curves and shapes of the arches are based on safavid style. The bridge was rebuilt by Khaje Sarfaraz who was the Armenian administer after the death of his father.

The special location of Marnan Bridge

This bridge is built on the western side of the city. Marnan Bridge connects the northern side of Zayandehrud River to the Armenian district which is located on the south of Isfahan. This bridge has 17 spans. Scholars have declared that there used to be more spans on this bridge.

Walking along this bridge is always a relaxing experience. The silence that this place offers will provide you with a peaceful feeling. Although, on the other side of the bridge there is a small waterfall that gives this place a vibrant atmosphere.

History of Marnan Bridge

The name Marnan could be derived from the word Mehrbin. There used to be a Mithraism temple named Mehrbin near the area of Marnan Bridge. However, there is no written document of this fact.  This bridge was probably constructed after Shahrestan Bridge in Sasanid era. Then, it was renovated with a Safavid style.

Overview

Opening Hours

7/24

Location

Marnan Sq. Sa’eb St. Isfahan, Iran

Contact

(+98) –

Price

Free

Hakim Mosque

A mosque, named Masjed-e Jorjir was built in the 10th century and it was then ruined. On the site of Jorjir mosque a new mosque was planned and constructed. This mosque was called “Hakim Mosque “and was built in 1656. This mosque was constructed by Hakim Davoud a physician of Shah Abbas the second court. Hakim Davoud was forced to move to India. He spent last years of his life at the court of Jahan Shah in India.

(Source: isfahan.ir)

Overview

Opening Hours

From 21 March To 22 September: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

From 23 September To 20 March: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location

Hakim St. Isfahan, Iran

Contact

(+98) –

Price

Free

Nazhvan Forest Park

This huge park on the outskirts of Esfahan encompasses a large complex of attractions that makes it pleasant The park includes of Birds Garden the Esfahan Aquarium a Sea Shell Museum Reptile House and a Butterfly Collection Each attraction is charged separately and there is no combined ticket. With a picnic, the wooded park makes a pleasant day’s outing, particularly in autumn when the leaves change color. Other attractions inside the park include a small chairlift over the river, horse-drawn carriages, a miniature train and a water park for kids. A Ladies Garden (8am to sunset) gives a bit of respite for women wanting to avoid unwanted attention, kiosks sell limited snacks, there’s a restaurant in the Birds Park and the grounds are serviced with clean toilet facilities.

(Source: lonelyplanet.com)

Overview

Opening Hours

From 21 March To 22 September: 8 AM – Sunset

From 23 September To 20 March: 8 AM – Sunset

Location

Olfat St. Sohrevardi Sq. Isfahan, Iran

Contact

(+98) 31 3784 0034

Price

Free

Explore Nazhvan Forest Park on these Suggested Tours

Sofeh Mountain


Sofeh Mountain

Sofe Mountain

Sofeh Mountain or kuh-Sofeh is a beautiful and popular mountain located in the south part of Isfahan city. This marvelous mountain is a part of Zagros Mountain and stands at an altitude of 2257 meters (above sea level). Near the park there are some beautiful waterfalls and caves which all make this mountain a wonderful place. There is a great forest park which most of the inhabitants spend a lot of time in. Having cable cabin, bowling hall, playground, restaurant, and also zoological park adds more charm to the park and makes this place one of the greatest attractions of the city.

Isfahan was a sea about 60 to 180 million years ago. Sofeh Mountain is the cause of sedimentation of sea. Jurassic and Cenozoic areas are visible in this mountain. Mount Sofeh consist of three layers of geology respectively which are gray layer, yellow and black layers; the least of which goes back to the Jurassic period about 180 million years ago. At the high side hills of Soffeh Mountain, there are some strong castles which were used for defending. This phenomenon has given a magnificence view to this beautiful city.

The path towards the top of the mountain is very safe and has a mild steep This mountain is only moderately challenging and can be tackled by anyone with a basic level of fitness. It will take approximately 2.5 hours to summit the mountain. There is a pathway up, with benches and springs along the way. Mount Sofeh is very popular with the locals, especially in the evenings when the city lights wash over the skyline. The best place you can still find some peaceful areas around Sofeh especially on the top of the mountain.

Sofeh Mountain is a great destination for nature lovers.

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Qeysarie Bazaar

Qeysarie Gate

The gate(portal) of Qeysarie Bazaar was the second structure to be constructed in the northern end of the square in safavid era. This Bazaar connects the old square (Atigh Square) to the new one which is the Naghsh-e Jahan Square and works as a transition element, built for the development of trading and acceleration of economy growth.

On the top of this great gate, as a symbol of the Battle of good and evil, the splendorous mosaic work represents two hunters with human bodies, tiger legs and each aiming an arrow to their dragon tail as a Sagittarius zodiac sign. Historian declare that this was the month that Isfahan was founded.

On the top of the Qeysarie Gate, not so long ago, there used to be structure called ”Nagharehkhaneh”, where music would be played at sunrise and sunset.

In the middle of the portal, there is a painting of Shah Abbas at war with the Uzbeks.  Other paintings resemble some hunting frescos painted by European artists. Unfortunately, too much direct sun light along with humid condition have caused some colours of the paintings to fade.

The famous Persian Moaragh mosaic tilework can be seen on the portal and the sides of the corridors. There is a poem from, Sa’di, the famous Persian poet written on the side walls. Each couplet on each side, facing the other.

The grand Bazaar of Isfahan, itself is a complete covered town. Each part of this Bazaar including; cross roads which are called Char-Su (four directions), Caravansaries with rectangular shaped open courtyards and smaller places similar to caravansaries, called Timcheh have certain specifications.

Overview

Opening Hours

Qeysarie Gate: Outdoor 7/24

Location

Qeysarie Bazaar: From Atigh Square To Naghsh-e Jahan Square

Qeysarie Gate: North side of Naghsh-e Jahan Sq, Isfahan, Iran

Contact

(+98) –

Price

Free

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Chahar Bagh Abbasi Street

Sio-Se-Pol Bridge which is the longest historical bridge in Isfahan was built to connect the southern part of a street named Chahar Bagh to its eastern part.

Chahar Bagh Street is located on the south side of Sio-Se-Pol Bridge. It was once one of the most splendid streets in the world. It is 5km long and 47m wide.

Today, this street is a paved walking street with old leafy trees planted along the street which creates an extraordinary view.

Madar-i-Shah, a complex placed on this street, consisting of a Caravanserai, a Bazaar and a School. The Caravanserai and The Bazaar were dedicated to the school and school expenses were provided in this way. The school of Chahar Bagh was built in Iranian Islamic architecture, which was built under orders of Shah Sultan Hossein Safavi. It is a two-story school in a way that the lower chamber rooms were devoted to religion lessons and the upper ones for mathematics, medicine and astronomy lessons. Today, this school is in the hands of the Islamic seminary.

Next to Chahar Bagh Street is Shahid Rajaee Park; Seating in the middle of the park, is Hasht Behesht Palace which was built during Shah Suleiman Safavid time. The palace beautiful gilded mosaics and mirror works will catch any tourist’s eyes.

1

Isfahan Municipality

Isfahan, a self-sufficient metropolitan city in every field. An encyclopedia of Iranian and Islamic arts and architecture. A great collection of historic monuments.

2

Chehel Sotun Palace

Chehel Sotun is a pavilion in the middle of classic Persian garden. Built by Shah Abbas II to be used for his entertainment and receptions

3

Hasht Behesht Palace

The small Hasht Behesht Palace is the most luxuriously decorated palace in Isfahan.

4

Bazar-e Honar

One of the oldest bazaar in Isfahan with a dazzling array of exquisite jewellery. Closed to Abbasi Hotel and Chahar Bagh School.

5

Chahar Bagh School

A theological and clerical school to train those who were interested in such sciences with the collection of the most beautiful tiles in Isfahan.

6

Abbasi Hotel

The oldest hotel and an unrepeatable heritage in Isfahan architectural style.

7

Farshadi Stream

The oldest stream (Madi) in Isfahan.

8

Shahrzad Restaurent

One of the best traditional restaurant with traditional foods.

9

Madi Niasarm

The longest Madi (stream) in Isfahan.

10

Si-o-She Pol Bridge

The longest bridge on Zayandeh River with more than 400 years old.

Isfahan Bazaar

Whether on a single day business trip or a 5-day holiday, the grand bazaar of Isfahan is a must for every visitor. You can go for a short walk in the main pathway of the bazaar and get a glimpse of the colours, scents, tastes, architecture and the people of the bazaar so you have a story to tell with a couple of selfies and probably some souvenirs. However, if you can afford, in terms of time, you can spend the better part of a day to stroll down every pathway of the maze of alleys, traveling back in time form late 17th century (Safavid era, when the new Meydan or Square was built) to late 11th century (Seljuk era, when the old Meydan or Meydan Kohneh was constructed). Only the people who work in the bazaar can find their way to their exact destination, so do not even try not to be lost. Indulge yourself in what the centuries-old bazaar has to offer. The lively atmosphere of the shops and shoppers, the gleaming handicrafts, the music of the hammers and copper plates mixed pleasantly with the strong hum of the crowd under the arched roofs. Heavenly light penetrates here and there from the centre of the arches giving the floating particles a magical slow-motion effect. Whether you are here for colours, for music, for history, for photography or just her for a new experience with new people and culture, this place is the right place. Perfect for humans-of-newyork style photography. A rainbow selection of spices for gastro lovers. A tour of the old bazaar of Isfahan is a complete package in itself. Given that it’s located adjacent to the Naghsh e Jahan Square with its significant historical monuments it gives you the false impression that the visit is doable in one day which might not be the best thing to do.

Overview


Opening Hours

Daily Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Location

From:

Jameh Mosque, Isfahan, Iran

To:

Naghsh-e Jahan Sq. Isfahan, Iran

Naqsh-e Jahan Square

naqsh-e jahan square view

(Nᴂghsh-e Jᴂhãn; نقش جهان)

Naqsh-e Jahan Square or as the Iranians would call it, the pattern of the world, shows the splendor of the fifth safavid king, Shah Abbas the great. Shah Abbas 1 and his head architect Ali Akbar Esfahani changed the city structure and expanded the city to the river. Another one of these expansions was designing and building the Naqsh-e Jahan Square (Imam Square) as a symbolic square (the pattern of the world) with representatives of the four main pillars of power.

four main pillars of power in world square

1

jameh abbasi Mosque

On the southern side of the square stands the great portal of the Jameh Abbasi Mosque (Imam Mosque) that represents the people and the popular.

2

Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque

There is The Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque as the religious pole of the square on the eastern side.

3

Ali Qapu Palace

Ali Qapu Palace is a representation  of the government.

4

Qeysarie Bazaar

Qeysarie Bazaar is the economical pole on the north side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

Qeysarie Gate

What is the greatest square in the world?

Naqsh-e Jahan Square has been standing for more than 400 years. The arena of this magnificent square is 83500 square meter. As a matter of fact, Naqsh-e Jahan Square has a bigger area than most famous squares of the world.

Naqsh-e Jahan Square among all the great squares in the world; place des Vosges, the French architecture masterpiece, La piazza San Marco in Venice, the Plaza Mayor de Salamanca in Spain, and … has a different characteristic and a unique “language” of architecture.

History of Naqsh-e Jahan Square until today

The purpose of this Safavid Art

Throughout the history, the square has been used for performing all kinds of festivals, parades, and ceremonies such as; national, governmental and popular ceremonies. Also this is a square just about perfect for a game of polo. The stone goal posts still exist in north and south ends of Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

Polo and horse riding are two of the ancient Persian sports mixed together, played not only for leisure, but also as a display of bravery of men in wars. The royal household would watch the games from the balcony of Ali -Qapu Palace. Apart from this, some executions took place in Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

For the present, Naqsh-e Jahan Square or Imam Square is still used for performing ceremonies and parades on special occasions. There are Traditional shops all around the square for you to explore. Also, Carriage rides are a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square.

The historic center of Isfahan: on the UNESCO World Heritage List

UNESCO has recognized Meidan Emam as a world heritage site of culture in 1979. As you Walk among this square, it somehow makes you feel as if you are walking through the mystic past.

Overview




Location

Naghsh-e Jahan Sq., Isfahan, Iran

Price

Free

Explore Naqsh-e Jahan Square on these Suggested Tours