Isfahan : The Jewel of Persia + video
Isfahan is a city in central Iran, located on the Zayandeh Rud river. It is the third-largest city in Iran, after Tehran and Mashhad, with a population of about 2 million people. Isfahan is a major cultural and historical center, and is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace.
Isfahan was founded in the 7th century AD by the Arabs, and became an important city under the rule of the Seljuk Turks in the 11th century. The city reached its peak of glory under the Safavid dynasty in the 16th and 17th centuries, when it was the capital of Iran. During this time, Isfahan was known as the “Half of the World” for its beauty and splendor.
The Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the centerpiece of Isfahan. It is a large, rectangular square surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Shah Mosque, the Ali Qapu Palace, and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Shah Mosque is the largest and most important mosque in Isfahan. It was built in the 17th century by Shah Abbas I. The mosque is known for its beautiful blue tiles and its intricate geometric designs.
The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a smaller mosque located in the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It is known for its delicate interior decoration, which includes intricate mirror work and colorful tiles.
The Ali Qapu Palace is a palace located on the south side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It was built in the 17th century as a reception hall for the Shah. The palace is known for its beautiful balconies and its stunning views of the square.
In addition to its beautiful architecture, Isfahan is also known for its delicious food, its vibrant bazaars, and its friendly people. It is a popular tourist destination, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
Here are some other things to see and do in Isfahan:
- The Chehel Sotun Palace: This palace is known for its 40 columns and its beautiful gardens.
- The Hasht Behesht Garden: This garden is one of the oldest and most beautiful gardens in Isfahan.
- The Armenian Church of Vank: This church is a beautiful example of Armenian architecture.
- The Isfahan Grand Bazaar: This bazaar is one of the largest and most vibrant bazaars in Iran.
Isfahan is a truly magical city, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Persian culture and history.
What is special about Isfahan?
Isfahan is special for many reasons. Here are a few of the things that make Isfahan unique:
Its beautiful architecture: Isfahan is home to some of the most beautiful and impressive architecture in the world, including the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace.
Its rich history: Isfahan has a long and rich history dating back to the 7th century AD. The city has been ruled by many different dynasties over the centuries, each of which has left its mark on the city’s architecture and culture.
Its vibrant culture: Isfahan is a city of culture and art. The city is home to many museums, theaters, and cultural centers. Isfahan is also known for its delicious food and its friendly people.
Its natural beauty: Isfahan is located on the Zayandeh Rud river, which flows through the city. The city is also surrounded by mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop to the city’s architecture.
Isfahan is a truly special city, and it is no wonder that it is often referred to as the “Jewel of Persia.” If you are looking for a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, then Isfahan is the perfect place for you.
Here are some other things that make Isfahan special:
Its friendly people: The people of Isfahan are known for their hospitality and kindness. They are always happy to welcome visitors to their city and show them around.
Its delicious food: Isfahan is a foodie’s paradise. The city is home to many restaurants serving traditional Persian cuisine, as well as international cuisine.
Its vibrant shopping scene: Isfahan is a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts. The city’s Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and most vibrant bazaars in Iran.
Its proximity to other tourist destinations: Isfahan is a convenient base for exploring other parts of Iran. The city is within easy reach of the ruins of Persepolis, the ancient city of Pasargadae, and the holy city of Mashhad.
If you are planning a trip to Iran, be sure to include Isfahan in your itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.
Why is Isfahan called half of the world?
Isfahan is known as “half of the world” because of its beauty and splendor. The phrase “Isfahan nesf-e jahan” (Persian: اصفهان نصف جهان), which literally means “Isfahan is half the world,” was first used in the 17th century by the Safavid ruler Shah Abbas I. The phrase is said to have been inspired by the city’s vast size, its beautiful architecture, and its vibrant culture.
Isfahan was the capital of Iran during the Safavid dynasty, and it was during this time that the city reached its peak of glory. The Safavids were great patrons of art and architecture, and they invested heavily in the development of Isfahan. As a result, the city was adorned with many beautiful buildings, including the Naqsh-e Jahan Square, the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace.
The Naqsh-e Jahan Square is one of the largest and most impressive squares in the world. It is surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the Shah Mosque, the Ali Qapu Palace, and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Shah Mosque is the largest and most important mosque in Isfahan. It was built in the 17th century by Shah Abbas I. The mosque is known for its beautiful blue tiles and its intricate geometric designs.
The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque is a smaller mosque located in the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It is known for its delicate interior decoration, which includes intricate mirror work and colorful tiles.
The Ali Qapu Palace is a palace located on the south side of the Naqsh-e Jahan Square. It was built in the 17th century as a reception hall for the Shah. The palace is known for its beautiful balconies and its stunning views of the square.
In addition to its beautiful architecture, Isfahan is also known for its delicious food, its vibrant bazaars, and its friendly people. It is a popular tourist destination, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.