Isfahan, Half of the world

Isfahan is one of the most beautiful cities in the world which located in central Iran. The river flowing through the heart of the city, has created a rich cultural hub. An ancient town which has long been noted for architecture, carpets, and fine metal works. Known as Nesf-e Jahan (meaning half of the world), Isfahan is the cultural capital of Iran with great architecture, striking boulevards, stunning covered bridges, magnificent palaces, beautiful churches, and hand-painted tiles.

Isfahan is the first city that comes to mind when speaking of Iran that gives you a taste of modern life and the history of the country. It is the birthplace of many Iranian artworks and handicrafts as well. Among the cities of Iran, Isfahan has the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and therefore it is not surprising that it carries the nickname “Half of the World”. This city impresses every visitor with the magnificent architecture style of its monuments which were built during Safavid dynasty.

HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS

Naqshe Jahan square

Naqshe Jahan is the most famous landmark of Isfahan which is Located in the heart of the historical part of city. It is the biggest square in the world, which was built during the Safavid dynasty, that surrounded by 3 amazing monuments and a traditional Bazaar with a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

Ali Qapu palace

Ali Qapu is located on the western side of Naghsh e Jahan Square. It was the official residence of the rulers of Safavid dynasty that has 6 stories all of which are emblazoned with frescos, mirrors, and stucco.

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque

Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is located on the eastern side of Naghsh e Jahan Square. Dating back to four centuries ago, it is one of the most beautiful and unique mosques in the world was built for the king and his family during Safavid era. The stunning tile work and the lights inside evoke every traveler’s sense of admiration.

Jameh Mosque of Isfahan (Masjed-e Jame)

Belonging to the Seljuq dynasty, Jame Mosque is the oldest monument in Isfahan. The amazing tile work and Muqarnas work add to the beauty of this mosque. it has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

33 Pol Bridge

This bridge was built over Zayandeh River almost 400 years ago. Its name refers to the 33 arches of the bridge over it. The bridge is the favorite hangout place of the locals and tourists at night. You can sit in the lower level of the bridge and listen to people playing traditional instruments and the sound is amplified due to the special arcades of the bridge.

Handicrafts

Khatam Kari

A Persian wooden handicraft, made by decorating the outer of the wooden objects with the fragile pieces of wood, animals’ bones, and geometrical shapes of metals such as gold, silver, brass, and aluminum. The historical background of this art refers to around 400 years ago.

Qalam Zani

A traditional handcraft, prepared of carving on different metals such as copper, brass, silver, and gold. It is an art that has a history of about 800 years in Iran.

Mina Kari

The crucial role of blue color in this handcraft is undeniable. Enameling is art of glazing and painting on surface of metal. This art has a history of about five thousand years. Decorating and designing metal by colors and baking them, catching everyone’s eyes.

Pottery

Traces indicates the very first potteries made around 10000 years ago in Iran, shows the antiquity of this art. Isfahan is known as the major core of pottery.

Moaragh Kari

Moaragh Kari is art of creating pattern on wood, which is done by cutting and combining colored wood and other materials such as fiber, inlay, and metal and then attaching them on wooden or polyester surfaces. History of Moaragh Kari dates back to 6th century AH and Seljuk period.