Iran Architecture is amazingly diverse. The richness of our beloved country, Iran, is not hidden from anyone in terms of history and architecture. This ancient country, throughout history, has seen many leaders each of whom has left their signature on the land. Each of these heritages contains signs of social life, culture, politics, etc. There are important documents that prove how ancient this country is. One of them is unique and pleasant Iran architecture. Arch Daily website, which is known as a reputable and global source in the field of architecture and has more than 13 million monthly readers, has presented a list of historical monuments in Iran and introduced the best heritages of historical architecture in this country.

At the beginning of this article, the author refers to the ancient history of Iran and the vastness of the Persian Empire, and then, considering the ups and downs of Iran architecture and history and the bitter and sweet events that this country has seen. This article considers the existence of these heritages as a valuable treasure. It can help a lot in understanding the past lifestyle of Iranians.

However, Iran’s history is exceptionally complex, layered with dynasties and rulers whose influence extended way beyond modern-day Iran.

Together with the Chiyakotravel, we take a look at this published list to get more acquainted with the valuable heritage of our country and to know the unique attractions of Iran.

1- Shah Mosque | Esfahan

One of the most valuable Iran architecture heritages is Shah mosque. All visitors like to experience visiting this masterpiece during their trip to Iran. Shah Mosque is located in Naghsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan. This mosque which is also known as Imam Mosque today has an eye-catching architecture covered with yellow and blue tiles which gives you a unique tranquility.

You can spend all day in this mosque and the surrounding spaces and discover new secrets, but one of the experiences that should not be missed in any way is standing in the center of the main dome. This part is made of a different stone than the other parts of the building and it will be very interesting for you to hear the reflection of your voice under it and see how breath-taking Iran architecture is.

2- Aali Qapo | Esfahan

Near the Shah Mosque and in a corner of Naghsh-e Jahan Square, there is another manifestation of magnificent Iran architecture that will amaze you.

AaliQapo Palace is a building that will enchant you with different layers of Iran architecture and will open your lips to admiration. All you have to do is step up in the small entrance and then enter the large hall, which has two halls above it.

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These masterpieces are located on the second floor, one of which is a music hall and the other is a large porch on the east side that provides a view of Naghsh-e Jahan Square. On the porch, there are 18 wooden columns that have been installed as the base of the roof of this part.

This palace was used to welcome the guests of Shah Abbas Safavid and is full of unique and spectacular decorations of Iran architecture.

3- Nasir Al-Molk Mosque | Shiraz

If you were able to travel to Iran and you were asked to see one of its attractions, be sure not to miss Nasir Al-Molk Mosque in Shiraz to immerse yourself in its bright and colorful atmosphere.

The colored glass of this building and the sunlight crossing through them cause a spectacular view to create inside. Although having a lot of tourists and a camera in hand may be a little annoying, it is still worth it. This amazing sign of Iran architecture is such a piece of jewelry which is still unknown for the world.

4- Golestan Palace

The capital of Iran, Tehran, is also home to several historical monuments including Golestan Palace. It is the most spectacular building which shines in Iran architecture. The palace is a collection of 17 structures in the form of gardens, old royal buildings and handicrafts each of which has a special glory.

Almost all the structures were built during Qajar dynasty, but many of them were destroyed during the reign of Reza Shah due the excuse that old architecture should not prevent the growth of the city. Today, this building with its colorful tiles and magical designs still retains its beauty and splendor and looks very spectacular.

5- Persepolis

60 km northeast of Shiraz, there is a huge building from the heart of history known as Persepolis. It was used as a palace to hold Iranian commemorate ceremonies during the Achaemenid Empire around 550-330 BC.

The ruins of a magnificent structure still standing at the height of beauty, with the remains of huge columns, two royal palaces and gardens, and what is said to be the tomb of Cyrus the Great all of which represent the richness of Iran architecture.

The gate of this complex is known as the gate of nations; Where there are traces of different names engraved on the wall. What is important about this complex is its history which gives it inexhaustible power to become a tourist destination.

6- The land of Yazd

Yazd is a different gift in Iran which looks like a labyrinth with narrow and nested alleys, and it is probably due to its defense structure in the history of Iran architecture.

All the houses have an inner courtyard with a small pond, and the windbreaks have been raised to cool the buildings and improve air circulation around the houses. Wind deflectors bring fresh air from outside into the rooms and maximize airflow with a calculated circulation.

Just go to the rooftops and look at this land from a different angle. At this time you can discover and enjoy this winding labyrinth and its thatched roofs. Everything in this land smells like traditional architecture, and perhaps its architecture has changed and modernized less than other cities.

7- Naghsh Rostam

About 12 km northwest of Persepolis which we talked about earlier, there is an attraction called Naghsh-e Rostam. It was created in the heart of the mountains and was the resting place of the Achaemenid kings.

Unfortunately, the tombs have been invaded by Alexander the Great, but this has not affected their amazing appearance in any way, and it is still seen as a masterpiece in Iran architecture. It has definitely been very difficult to engrave in this volume of stones in the past. People have been forced to work under the hot sun to create such an inscription.

8- Ghavam House

When you go to Shiraz, after visiting Nasir Al-Molk Mosque and watching its rainbow of colors, you can go to Ghavam House, which is a building related to the Qajar period. This house is a magnificent mansion that is decorated with mirrors and tiles, and makes a different world in front of your eyes. You will be captured by this glory of Iran architecture of that time.

9- Goordakhmeh

In the past, Zoroastrians believed that if a dead body was buried, it would contaminate the earth, and in order to cope with this problem, they built circular burial mounds near the sky. This aspect of Iran architecture affected by religion and beliefs is so obvious in this monument.

Special guards carried the body and exposed it to the sun in these large spaces so that the birds could feed on it. After a while, when there was nothing left but the bones, they would collect them and destroy them with lime and water. These places have not been used for a long time because this activity has been banned by the government. It does not happen anymore.

10- Khajoo Bridge | Esfahan

Khajoo bridge is the name of the most beautiful bridge in Isfahan, which was built by Shah Abbas during the Safavid dynasty. This bridge is a symbol of Iran architecture in Safavid era and has not only been a place for crossing and it has had other purposes. It has been used as a barrier, and also a place for public gatherings. Isfahan people are used to sing underneath the domes together and enjoy spending time with each other in the evenings. Khajoo Bridge has several arches, but unfortunately, due to the drought, water only passes under them at certain times.

The white middle building of the bridge and its different structure make the Khajoo Bridge one of the most spectacular attractions of Iran architecture in Isfahan and attracts every tourist.

A glance at Iran architecture and history

Tourism in Iran also has great potential for growth and development, a smoke-free industry that has attracted the attention of many officials over the years. For this reason, measures have been considered for the growth and development of tourism in Iran, such as the abolition of visas for citizens of many countries and not stamping entry for anyone who wishes. As the national value of Iran’s currency has plummeted and there are many historical-natural attractions in this vast country, foreign tourists can be more motivated to explore Iran. Iran architecture and history makes it a unique destination for everyone.
In the list of UNESCO historical monuments of Iran, attractions such as Persepolis, Tchoghaznabil, Naghsh-e Jahan Square of Isfahan, Takht-e Soleiman, Bam and its cultural space, Pasargadae in Shiraz, Gonbad-e Soltanieh, Bisotoon inscription, collection of Armenian monastic monuments of Iran, Shushtar Water Structures, Tabriz Bazaar, Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardabili Tomb, Persian Garden (including Eram Garden in Shiraz, ChehelSotun of Isfahan, Kashan Fin Garden, Prince Mahan Garden, Dolatabad Garden, Yazd, Pahlavanpour Mehriz Yazd Garden, Akbarieh Garden of Birjand and Pasargad Persian Garden), Isfahan Jame Mosque, Gonbad-e Qabus, Golestan Palace, Shahr-e Sokhteh, Meymand village in Shahr Babak, the ancient city of Shousha. The name of Lut desert and Hyrcanian forests also shines in the UNESCO list of natural monuments of Iran. According to the list, Iran ranks tenth in the list of UNESCO World historical Heritage Sites and fifth in the list of UNESCO World natural Sites. The most famous cities that have become tourist destinations include Shiraz, Isfahan, Mashhad, Tehran, Tabriz, Kerman, Kish, Qeshm and Chabahar. Sites of Shiraz include Nasir Al-Molk Mosque, Shahcheragh Shrine, Hafezieh (Hafez Tomb), Saadieh (Saadi Tomb), Karim Khan Shiraz Citadel and Vakil Complex. The historical houses of Shiraz and the museums of Shiraz are also among the other tourist attractions of Shiraz. Of course, those who travel to Shiraz will probably visit Pasargadae and Persepolis nearby. Shiraz souvenirs also include Ranginak, Gabbeh, Khatam Kari and Faludeh Shirazi. The city also has good and famous hotels, Shiraz Grand Hotel, Shiraz Elizeh Hotel, Chamran Hotel and Ariobarzan Hotel are among the best hotels in Shiraz. Isfahan tourist attractions that many tourists visit include Naghsh-e Jahan Square, Aali Qapo Mansion, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, 33 pol and Khajoo Bridge, Vank Church and Jolfa Neighborhood, Chaharbagh School and Malabashi House in Isfahan. Tourism in this city has flourished with good hotels in Isfahan such as Aseman Hotel and Abbasi Hotel in Isfahan. Tourism in the capital has also been on the rise over the years, and despite Tehran’s sights such as Golestan Palace and Niavaran Palace, which are world famous, and Tehran’s good hotels such as the Espinas Palace Hotel, the Visteria Hotel and the Persian Plaza Hotel in Tehran, expect progress. We have more than that. In addition to desert hiking, nature tourism in Iran is related to the beautiful beaches of Qeshm and the Valley of the Stars, Chahkuh Strait on this island, as well as the beautiful beaches of Chabahar. Azeri dance, Baluchi dance, local Shiraz food, Baluchi dress, Nowruz, Charshanbe sori, and the customs of people of each city are also among the potentials of cultural tourism in Iran. In addition to hotels, apartment hotels and traditional hotels, the boom of ecotourism resorts has also had a significant impact on the growth of sustainable tourism for Iran. If you are interested in visiting this country, check our tours you and let us issue your Iran visa for free. In your trip to Iran, you will inspired by Iran architecture, culture, diversity and history.