Najafābād, Iran
Region: Isfahan
Geographic Coordinates: 32.634700, 51.365300
Climate: Hot and dry summers and cool winters with occasional rainfall.
Population: 235281
Language: Persian
Najafābād is a city located in the central part of Iran, Approximately 30 kilometers south of Isfahan. The city has a population of around 200, 000 people and is renowned for its rich culture, History, And architecture. Najafābād was established during the Safavid dynasty in the early 17th century and has played a significant role in Iranian history ever since. One of Najafābād’s most noteworthy features is its traditional bazaar that dates back to the 17th century. The bazaar showcases stunning brick arches and domes that reflect traditional Persian architecture.
Visitors can find various goods at the bazaar such as textiles, Spices, Handicrafts, And jewelry. Another popular attraction in Najafābād is its numerous historical buildings and monuments. One such monument is the Imamzadeh Seyyed Mohammad Hossein shrine which dates back to the Qajar era (1785-1925). The shrine displays intricate tile work on its walls and ceilings as well as beautiful calligraphy throughout. Apart from historical sites, Najafābād also boasts several parks where visitors can appreciate nature’s beauty. One such park is called Shohada Park which features walking trails lined with trees as well as playgrounds for children.
Another famous park is called Golshan Garden which includes various flowers and plants native to Iran. Najafabad also has several museums that showcase Iranian culture and history. The most notable museum in Najafabad is called Khorasani House Museum which displays artifacts from different periods throughout Iranian history including pottery, Textiles, Weapons, Coins among others. food lovers will not be disappointed when visiting this city!
In fact there are many local dishes that are unique to this region like Gheymeh Nesar -a dish made with lamb meatballs cooked with saffron and pomegranate juice- or Khoresh Gheymeh -a stew made with split peas, Lamb meat, Tomatoes and dried limes. The city is also known for its delicious sweets such as Gaz which is a nougat-like confection made with pistachios and rose water. Najafābād is a beautiful city that offers visitors a rich cultural experience. From its historical sites to its parks and museums, There is something for everyone in this charming Iranian city.
- Jameh Mosque of Najafabad
- Imamzadeh Ali Akbar Shrine
- Seyed Hossein Hosseini Shrine
- Haj Ali Darvish Tomb
- Qanat-e-Sofla Water Mill
- Bazaar-e-Kuchak (Small Bazaar)
- Zayandeh River Park
- Qazvinian House Museum
- Golshan Garden
- Chahar Bagh School
Najafābād Industries and Businesses
- Agriculture
- Grapes
- Pomegranates
- Oranges
- Textiles
- Fabrics for clothing
- Home furnishings
- Industrial use
- Machinery
- Agricultural equipment such as pumps
- Food Processing
- Juices
- Jams
- Pickles
- Construction Materials
- Bricks
- Tiles
- Cement blocks
- Handicrafts
- Pottery
- Wood carvings
- Hand woven carpets
- Retail
- Clothes
- Shoes
- Groceries
Najafabad’s economy mostly relies on agriculture but there are many small scale industries which contribute to its economy as well including handicrafts such as pottery, wood carvings, and hand woven carpets. There are also many retail shops selling clothes, shoes, groceries, etc.
- The city was founded in the 17th century during the Safavid dynasty.
- Najafābād played an important role in the Constitutional Revolution of Iran (1905-1911) and many prominent figures from the city participated in it.
- Ayatollah Khomeini, the founder of Islamic Republic of Iran, spent some time in Najafābād during his exile from Iran in 1964.
- The city is known for its traditional crafts such as pottery, carpet weaving, and silk weaving.
- Najafabad has several historic landmarks such as Jame Mosque which dates back to 17th century and is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Iran.
- Some notable personalities from Najafabad include Mirza Ali Akbar Khan Amin al-Dawla (a statesman during Qajar dynasty), Dr Mohammad Mossadegh (Iran’s Prime Minister who nationalized oil industry), and Ayatollah Seyyed Mahmoud Taleghani (one of the leaders of Iranian Revolution).
- In recent times, Najafabad has been a hub for protests against government policies including economic hardships and political repression.
- Sheikh Abdol Samad Isfahani Tomb and Museum
- Najafabad Jame Mosque
- Najafabad Grand Bazaar
- Mir Emad Calligraphy Museum
- Molla Sadra House and Museum
- Imamzadeh Abu al-Fazl Shrine
- Haj Ali Akbar Khan Water Reservoir
- Shams Tabrizi Tomb and Mausoleum
- Haj Abbas Kashi House and Garden
- Agha Bozorg Mosque and Theological School
Popular Cultural Events and Festivals in Najafābād, Iran
- Muharram Mourning Ceremonies
- Nowruz
- Sizdeh Bedar
- Ashura
- Eid al-Fitr
- Eid al-Adha
The city observes the first month of the Islamic calendar with great reverence through mourning ceremonies. Nowruz is celebrated on March 21st each year and marks the beginning of springtime. On the 13th day after Nowruz, people head out to parks and green spaces for a day of picnicking and outdoor activities known as Sizdeh Bedar. Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein while Eid al-Fitr celebrates the breaking of fast after a month-long period of fasting at the end of Ramadan. Finally, Eid al-Adha honors Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael as an act of obedience to God’s commandment.
- Kabab Koobideh: A traditional Persian dish made with ground lamb or beef mixed with spices and grilled on skewers.
- Ash Reshteh: A hearty soup made with beans, noodles, herbs and spices.
- Baghlava: A sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup.
- Sholeh Zard: A saffron-infused rice pudding topped with cinnamon and pistachios.
- Haji Firuz Traditional Restaurant: Known for their kebabs, stews and rice dishes served in a traditional Iranian setting.
- Shahrzad Restaurant: Offers a mix of Iranian and international dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
- Kebabchi Restaurant: Specializes in grilled meats served on skewers along with various dips and salads.
- Ghasr-e Shirin Restaurant: Offers a range of Persian dishes including stews, kebabs and vegetarian options served in an elegant setting.
- Mirza Hasan Traditional Restaurant: Known for their authentic Iranian breakfasts as well as lunch & dinner options including stews, kebabs, salads etc.
- Rahim’s Cafe & Grill: One of the most popular places to eat fast food like burgers, sandwiches, pizza, chicken wings etc.
