Shīrāz, Iran
Region: Fars
Geographic Coordinates: 29.610000, 52.542500
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 40.0°C (50°F to 104°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 1565572
Language: Persian
Shiraz is a city situated in the southwest of Iran and is celebrated for its rich history, Culture, And stunning gardens. It serves as the capital of Fars Province and has been a hub of Persian culture for over two millennia. The city was once the capital of Persia during the Zand dynasty in the 18th century. Persepolis is one of Shiraz’s most famous landmarks, An ancient city built by Darius I in 518 BC. This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts thousands of tourists each year who come to marvel at its impressive architecture and learn about its rich history.
Another popular attraction in Shiraz is the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Also known as the Pink Mosque due to its stunning pink tiles that reflect light onto its interior walls. Shiraz’s beautiful gardens are renowned worldwide, Including Eram Garden which dates back to the 13th century. The garden features numerous fountains, Pools filled with colorful fish, And fruit trees that create a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation or meditation.
The city has a lively cultural scene with several museums showcasing Persian art and artifacts such as Vakil Bazaar where visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts like carpets or pottery while enjoying traditional Iranian architecture. Food enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Shiraz thanks to dishes like Kalam Polo (cabbage rice) or Fesenjan (a stew made from pomegranate paste). Additionally, Shirazi salad which consists of diced cucumber tomato onion mint parsley lemon juice salt pepper olive oil makes an excellent side dish or snack. no visit to Shiraz would be complete without trying some local wine!
Despite Iran’s Islamic laws forbidding alcohol consumption among Muslims residents are allowed up to five bottles per month each non-Muslim visitor can purchase two bottles per day from authorized shops around town. whether you’re interested in ancient history or modern culture; gardens or food; Shiraz has something for everyone. It’s a city that is not only rich in history but also offers a unique blend of Persian tradition and modernity making it an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Iran.
- Persepolis
- Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
- Tomb of Hafez
- Arg-e Karim Khan
- Eram Garden
- Vakil Bazaar and Bathhouse
- Shah Cheragh Shrine
- Qavam House
- Saadi’s Tomb
- Tomb of Cyrus the Great in Pasargadae
- Shiraz is a bustling economic center in Iran, with a wide range of industries and businesses that contribute to its growth and prosperity.
- The city’s fertile soil and favorable climate make it an ideal location for agriculture, producing crops like grapes, citrus fruits, wheat, barley, rice, and saffron.
- In addition to agriculture, Shiraz has a growing manufacturing industry that includes textiles, carpets, ceramics, and cement production facilities.
- Tourism is also an important industry in Shiraz due to its rich history and cultural heritage sites such as Persepolis and Pasargadae ancient ruins.
- The city boasts several world-renowned hospitals including Namazi Hospital which provides medical care to patients from all over Iran.
- Education is also one of the leading industries in Shiraz with several renowned universities like Shiraz University or Islamic Azad University -Shiraz Branch.
- With several startups emerging from this city; technology & IT sector are on rise too.
- Being one of the biggest cities in south Iran; retail & wholesale trading are also major players here.
- The Achaemenid Empire under Cyrus the Great founded the city in the 4th century BC.
- Karim Khan Zand (1750-1779) made Shīrāz his capital, leading to a period of cultural and artistic flourishing.
- Hafez (14th century) and Saadi (13th century), famous Persian poets, were born in Shīrāz.
- Several important architectural landmarks were constructed, including Arg-e Karim Khan fortress, Vakil Mosque, and Nasir al-Mulk Mosque.
- The Constitutional Revolution in 1906 saw protests against absolute monarchy rule in Iran taking place in Shīrāz.
- During their reign from 1925 to 1979, the Pahlavi dynasty constructed modern infrastructure such as highways, schools, hospitals, and an airport.
- Notable figures from Shīrāz include Mohammad Mossadegh (Iranian Prime Minister who nationalized oil industry), Ali Asghar Hekmat (poet), Mehdi Akhavan-Sales (poet), Ahmad Kasravi (intellectual), among others.
- Persepolis
- Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
- Tomb of Hafez
- Eram Garden
- Vakil Bazaar
- Shah Cheragh Shrine
- Arg-e Karim Khan
- Pars Museum
- Saadi Shirazi Mausoleum
- Qavam House (Narenjestan-e Ghavam)
- Fajr Sepasi Football Club was established in 1963 and played at the highest level of Iranian football for many years. The team won numerous championships and was one of Iran’s most successful clubs during the 1990s.
- Bargh Shiraz Football Club was founded in 1946 and played mostly in lower divisions of Iranian football. Although they were promoted to top division several times, they couldn’t sustain their position there for long.
- Shahrdari Shiraz Basketball Club started operating from 1974 and participated in the Iranian Basketball Super League for many years, winning numerous championships during their tenure.
- Shiraz Volleyball Club was established back in 1969 and performed exceptionally well at a high level for many years, securing several national championships.
- Shiraz Cycling Team has been active since early 2000s and has taken part in various national as well as international competitions over time.
It should be noted that these teams might not exist anymore or may have altered names or locations due to different reasons such as financial constraints or lack of support from local authorities or fans.
- The Shiraz International Festival of Arts is an annual event held in May that features a wide range of performances and exhibitions in music, theater, dance, and visual arts.
- Nowruz, the Iranian New Year celebration, takes place on the first day of spring (usually around March 21) and involves various traditions such as cleaning the house, setting up a Haft-Seen table with seven items that begin with the Persian letter sin, and visiting family and friends.
- The Fajr International Film Festival is held annually in February or March and showcases Iranian and international films as well as workshops and seminars for filmmakers.
- The Gol-o-Morgh Music Festival takes place during the summer months at the historic Bagh-e Eram garden in Shiraz. It features performances by traditional Iranian musicians playing instruments such as tar (a long-necked lute) and setar (a plucked string instrument).
- Hafez Poetry Night is an event named after famous Persian poet Hafez who lived in Shiraz during the 14th century. Participants recite his poetry while drinking tea or wine under moonlight.
- The Quran Recitation Competition is held annually during Ramadan (the ninth month of Islamic calendar). Participants from all over Iran compete to recite Quranic verses beautifully while being judged by experts.
- The Shiraz Traditional Bazaar Exhibition showcases local handicrafts such as carpets, pottery, metalwork, textiles etc., made by artisans from different parts of Iran who come to sell their products at one place.
- Sepandarmazgan Festival is a pre-Islamic Zoroastrian festival celebrated on February 24th which is dedicated to love & fertility where people exchange gifts & flowers with each other especially their loved ones or crushes.
- Kalam Polo: A traditional Persian dish made with rice, cabbage, and meat.
- Ash-e Reshteh: A hearty soup made with beans, noodles, herbs, and sometimes meat.
- Joojeh Kabab: Grilled chicken skewers marinated in saffron and lemon juice.
- Baghali Polo: A fragrant rice dish with dill and fava beans.
- Shater Abbas Restaurant: Known for its traditional Iranian dishes such as kebabs and stews.
- Sharzehe Darvish Restaurant: Offers a variety of Persian dishes including lamb shank stew and grilled meats.
- Haft Khan Restaurant: Serves both Iranian and international cuisine in a beautiful garden setting.
- Sofreh Sabz Restaurant: Specializes in vegetarian dishes using fresh local produce.
- Golshan Traditional Tea House: A cozy spot to enjoy tea or coffee along with traditional sweets like baklava or halva.
- Hafez Mausoleum Tea House: Located near the famous poet’s tomb, this tea house offers stunning views of the city while sipping on chai or herbal teas accompanied by snacks like nuts and dried fruits.
- Eram Garden is a historic Persian garden that boasts beautiful flowers and fountains.
- Jahan Nama Garden is a park that offers walking paths, playgrounds, and scenic views of the city.
- Ghasrodasht Park is a large park with picnic areas, sports facilities, and hiking trails.
- Chamran Grand Park is a popular destination for jogging and cycling with several cafes and restaurants available.
- Darvishiyeh Park provides a peaceful atmosphere with ponds, gardens, and an outdoor amphitheater to enjoy cultural performances.
- Saadi Tomb Garden surrounds the tomb of the famous Persian poet Saadi offering visitors tranquility in nature.
- Hafez Tomb Garden offers another serene garden surrounding the tomb of the famous Persian poet Hafez for visitors to explore.
- Shiraz Zoo houses various animals including lions, tigers, bears, monkeys etc., making it an exciting destination for animal lovers visiting Shiraz.
- Vakil Bazaar Complex is where people can shop for clothes, souvenirs etc., making it an essential stop on any visitor’s itinerary to experience local culture.
- Mosques like Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Shah Cheragh Mosque are also great tourist attractions in Shiraz that offer visitors insight into Islamic architecture and history.
