Isfahan is home to one of the most captivating and visually stunning remnants of the Safavid era: the Hasht Behesht Palace. The remarkable architecture, along with its intricate design and decorations, transforms this structure into a legendary palace. The Hasht Behesht Palace in Isfahan boasts four different facades, each offering a unique perspective of the building. Surrounding the palace is a garden that, while once beautiful, has unfortunately suffered over time, leaving little of its original splendor. However, recently a park with a combination of traditional and modern designs has been established near Hasht Behesht, making a visit there worthwhile. In this article from Eligasht, we aim to familiarize you further with the Hasht Behesht Palace in Isfahan.
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Location of Hasht Behesht Palace in Isfahan
The Hasht Behesht Palace is situated on the western side of Chaharbagh Street, directly opposite Sheikh Bahai Street, and is one of the two gardens located along this famous street. Reaching the palace by public transportation is convenient, with a nearby city bus station providing access to this beautiful and attractive site.
Nearby Tourist Attractions to Hasht Behesht Palace
The Hasht Behesht Palace is located close to several other beautiful tourist attractions in Isfahan. While visiting Hasht Behesht, you can also explore the following nearby sites:
- Naqsh-e Jahan Square
- Chehel Sotoun Palace
- Sheikh Lotfallah Mosque
- Ali Qapu Palace
- Qeysarieh Gate (Grand Bazaar)
- Imam Mosque
History of Hasht Behesht Palace
Isfahan owes much of its rich historical and architectural attractions to the Safavid era and its kings. Shah Abbas, the first king of the Safavid dynasty, chose Isfahan as the capital of his empire. One of his significant decisions to make Isfahan a worthy city for his empire was to construct a long street named Chaharbagh and create beautiful and spectacular gardens along it. Unfortunately, today, none of these gardens remain, except for the Chehel Sotoun and Hasht Behesht gardens.
While the beauty of the Hasht Behesht Palace has not completely endured through time, it still stands as an enchanting historical monument that attracts numerous tourists each year. The term “Hasht Behesht” actually refers to the eight entrances to paradise. Built in 1669, this palace was long regarded as the most beautiful palace in the world. It served as a residence for eight wives of Shah Abbas, with four women living on the first floor and the others on the second.
In 1964, the garden surrounding the palace was handed over to the Ministry of Culture and Art of Iran.
Architectural Marvel of Hasht Behesht Palace
The first thing that grabs your attention when you see the Hasht Behesht Palace is its unique shape and the many halls that surround it. This palace sits two meters above the ground, and the stairs are cleverly designed so visitors can easily reach both the upper and lower levels from any direction. The palace boasts four different facades, each unique despite some similarities. While the northern facade may seem to be the main one, the pool in the garden indicates that the true main facade is the eastern one. These porticos, along with the two-story central areas, the pool, and the semi-open spaces, really show that the palace’s design is all about enjoying the outdoors, especially in the summer.
One of the most captivating features of the Hasht Behesht Palace is its magnificent tile work, showcasing a variety of paintings related to birds, animals, and hunters. The walls of the first floor are adorned with exquisite paintings and authentic Iranian architecture. The second floor displays rooms, windows, and doors with beautiful and intricate designs. At the center of the main hall lies a stunning marble pool known as the “Pearl Pool,” designed so that water drips through holes, resembling the appearance of pearls. When you look up, you’ll be blown away by the stunning mosaic and muqarnas on the porch ceiling. The ceilings are beautifully decorated with mirror work, glass art, and intricate paintings, plus some gilding that really catches the eye. the mansion’s paintings, especially the two that show Fath Ali Shah sitting on his throne with his kids are other gems of this palace. Even though this mansion has a lot of different spaces, it still feels unified and has gorgeous decorations throughout. Sadly, there is not any wooden fences, crystal frames, or delicate colored glass anymore, as a lot has changed since the Safavid era, especially during the Qajar period. The decorative and artistic design of this structure has astonished visitors for many years.
How to Reach the Hasht Behesht Palace in Isfahan
Accessing the Hasht Behesht Palace is quite easy due to its location in the heart of Isfahan. The exact address is as follows:
Isfahan, extending Gol-dasteh Street, Shahid Rajai Park, Hasht Behesht Palace
By Car:
One way to reach Hasht Behesht is by private vehicle. However, due to traffic restrictions in Isfahan, it’s advisable to use online maps, as direct access to the palace may not be possible.
By Metro:
There is a metro station named after Imam Hussein Square, located just above Shahid Rajai Park and the Hasht Behesht Palace. You can navigate towards Chaharbagh Street or Gol-dasteh Street to reach the Hasht Behesht Garden (Shahid Rajai Park) and the palace.
By Bus:
Taking the bus is the most convenient way to reach the Hasht Behesht Palace. Bus stops related to Imam Hussein Square and Gol-dasteh Street, also known as Hasht Behesht Street, are near the palace. You can disembark and head straight to the palace.
Dining Options Near Hasht Behesht Palace
If you wish to savor delicious Iranian cuisine in the vicinity of the Hasht Behesht Palace, several excellent restaurants are available nearby to cater to the needs of tourists visiting this historical site. Some of the popular dining options include:
- Adak Fast Food
- Venice Restaurant
- Nobahar Restaurant
- Simorgh Restaurant
- Shahrazad Restaurant
- Pastor Restaurant
- Hakim Bashi Traditional Restaurant
- Kowsar Restaurant
Accommodation Near Hasht Behesht Palace
Given that many visitors from around the world come to Isfahan to see the beautiful Hasht Behesht Palace, numerous hotels have been established in the city, offering a variety of service quality. Some of the hotels near the Hasht Behesht Palace in Isfahan include:
One-Star Hotels: Partikan Hotel and Naghshe Jahan Hotel
Two-Star Hotels: Jahangardi Hotel
Three-Star Hotels: Safavi Hotel, Tourist Hotel, Venus Apartment Hotel
Four-Star Hotels: Alighapu Hotel and Pirouzi Hotel
Five-Star Hotels: Abbasi Hotel
Isfahan’s hotels are often very busy and bustling; therefore, if you plan to stay for a few nights, especially near the beautiful Hasht Behesht Palace, make sure to book one of these hotels online in advance.
The Final Word
In this article from Eligasht, we have discussed the exquisite Hasht Behesht Palace, the jewel of Isfahan. This stunning structure was commissioned by the first Safavid king, Shah Abbas, and is now regarded as one of the most beautiful historical edifices in Iran, truly deserving of its name, which translates to “Hasht Behesht.”
Isfahan is one of the main hubs of art and architecture in the world, earning it the nickname “Half of the World.” The city attracts numerous tourists each year, eager to experience its breathtaking beauty. If you are planning a trip to this magnificent city, we recommend traveling with one of Eligasht’s tours. With a distinguished history in organizing both domestic and international tours, Eligasht is a professional host for your travel needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who commissioned the Hasht Behesht Palace?
This palace was commissioned by Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty.
Who resided at the Hasht Behesht Palace?
The palace served as the residence for eight of Shah Abbas’s wives.
What is the exact address of Hasht Behesht Palace in Isfahan?
The palace is located at Isfahan, Gol Dasteh Street, Shahid Rajai Park, Hasht Behesht Palace.
Are there accommodations near Hasht Behesht Palace?
Yes, there are many hotels ranging from one-star to five-star options available for guests to stay near Hasht Behesht Palace.