Iran is replete with historical sites, each city boasting numerous examples. Understanding the history and age of these sites enhances their appeal. Semnan, though a lesser-known destination, possesses a rich history, resulting in numerous attractions. The Semnan Arg Square, a symbol of the city, is one of its most famous landmarks, adorned with spectacular designs. Semnan is a tranquil desert city where one can truly experience the serenity of the desert. The Semnan Arg Square, located in the Arg Square (Midan-e Arg), stands as a testament to the city’s past. This 7-meter-high gate is one of Semnan’s most important and famous historical structures, dating back to the Qajar era. Its ornamentation is captivating and sure to catch your eye. It’s the only remaining vestige of Semnan’s old citadel (arg), showcasing the grandeur of the former structure. In this article from Eligasht, we delve into the beauty of this gate. Seeing the gate easily evokes the magnificence of the original citadel.
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Semnan Province
Semnan province boasts numerous attractions, uniquely combining desert and forest landscapes. It offers unparalleled natural vistas. We recommend spending a few days exploring this historical province and its famous attractions to deepen your understanding of Iran and its countless wonders. Whether you prefer deserts or forests, you’ll find something to your liking in this province. Semnan is a place where you should take your time to discover its hidden gems – attractions that may not be widely known but are nonetheless stunning and worth seeing.
The history of Semnan Arg Square
In the past, citadels served as important governmental centers. The gate is the only surviving part of Semnan’s old citadel, having withstood the passage of time. Built during the reign of Nasser al-Din Shah, it was part of a governmental complex comprising administrative buildings, a telegraph office, a water reservoir, a bathhouse, and more. The gate’s construction has an interesting story: Nasser al-Din Shah spent three days in Semnan’s citadel in 1246 (AH, 1867 AD) while traveling to Mashhad. The citadel then had twelve towers and a southern gate, but lacked a northern one. During his short stay, the Shah ordered the governor to build a northern gate, which was completed in 1263 (AH, 1885-6 AD) under Anushirawan Mirza Zia al-Dawla.
The gate stands in the middle of the square and is easily accessible by car. After restoration, floodlights were installed, enhancing its beauty at night. Passersby are captivated by its beautiful decorations. After the destruction of the main citadel, preservationists prevented the demolition of the north gate, ensuring its survival as a valuable relic of the Qajar era.
The architecture of the Semnan Arg Square
The main structure, over 7 meters tall, is made of brick. A prominent feature is the seven-colored tilework depicting the historical battle between Rostam and the White Div (demon). Listed as a national monument in 1359 (AH, 1980 AD), it’s a valuable asset to Semnan’s attractions. Located at the intersection of Taleghani and Sheikh Fazlollah Nuri streets, it’s easily accessible during your visit. The inscriptions were designed by the renowned Qajar-era Semnani artist, Seyyed Mohammad Baqer Tabatabai Semnani. The gate’s doors, made of thick planks with iron studs, are closed at night, following traditional practice.
The gate has two symmetrical facades, a northern and a southern one, with the northern facade being more attractive.
Southern Façade
The southern facade features two symmetrical rooms with porches in front. There are also two small corridors and the main entrance, which served as the entry and exit to the citadel. This section is built of brick, and the main corridors have a square plan. Undoubtedly, the most attractive part of the southern facade is its semicircular archway, which bears an inscription in yellow Nastaliq script on blue tiles: “Sultan ibn Sultan Sultan Saheb Quran, Nasser al-Din Shah Qajar 1302.” (This refers to a Qajar king and the year 1302 AH in the Islamic calendar).
Northern Façade
What distinguishes the northern facade from the southern one is the use of tile decorations. Minarets and colorful seven-color tiles add unparalleled beauty to this section. A semicircular archway, mirroring that of the southern facade, is also present, but instead of Nastaliq calligraphy, it features a beautiful painting depicting the battle between Rostam and the White Div (demon).
Reason for Destruction
The Arg of Semnan was once a vast and magnificent citadel, serving as the city’s governmental center. It featured twelve towers and housed numerous facilities within its thick walls, including administrative offices like the telegraph, a cistern, a bathhouse, and guard rooms. Tragically, during the reign of Reza Shah Pahlavi, the majority of this grand structure was demolished for urban development and construction purposes. Only the northern and southern gates survive today, thanks to the preservation efforts of cultural enthusiasts who resisted the destruction. The remaining gates have since been restored, and new lighting highlights their beauty and grandeur at night.
Accessing the Semnan Arg Square
Visiting the Arg Square is straightforward. Travelers arriving by private car will find it easily accessible. For those using public transport, buses that pass through Arg Square provide convenient access. If traveling from Tehran, Semnan is located approximately 222 kilometers away, involving several potential routes by car, typically taking around three hours:
Route 1 (Southeast): Take Be’sat Highway from southeastern Tehran, passing through Khavarshahr, Mamazand, Sharifabad, Lasjerd, and Sorkheh before reaching Semnan.
Route 2 (East): Head east from Tehran via the Haraz road, passing cities like Pardis, Rudehen, Bomehen, Damavand, and Absard on the way to Semnan.
Route 3 (South): Use the Qom road from southern Tehran, then head towards Garmsar, traveling through Aradan, Lasjerd, and Sorkheh to reach Semnan. Alternatively, the Tehran-Semnan train operates daily, offering another convenient travel option that takes approximately 2 to 3 hours.
Reason for Naming and Historical Context
The gate is named the “Arg Square” because it served as the entrance to the Arg, or citadel, which was the king’s governmental center for the city. Built during the reign of Haji Bahman Mirza Baha’ al-Dowleh, son of Fath-Ali Shah Qajar, the citadel contained numerous structures within its walls, including a Hosseiniyeh (Shia religious gathering place), a cistern, a telegraph office, a guardhouse, a watchtower, and other facilities.
Details of the gate
The historic Arg Square, now identified as Arg Square, is a visually rich landmark in Semnan, easily accessible for visitors to admire. Its impressive features include thick timber doors reinforced with attractive iron studs. Above the entrance, vibrant tile work depicts Qajar soldiers complete with their equipment. Images of the classic Lion and Sun motif and another Qajar soldier adorn either side of the entrance. Further artistic details include five beautiful inscriptions in white Nastaliq script against an azure background, positioned above the main wall, as well as other inscriptions designed by the renowned artist Seyed Mohammad Bagher Tabatabai Semnani. Architecturally, the gate presents symmetrical northern and southern facades, each possessing its own unique character. Situated conveniently at the intersection of Taleghani and Sheikh Fazlollah Noori streets, the gate is a key point in one of Semnan’s main squares and can be easily reached by driving alongside it, using a private or rental car while exploring the city, or via public transport.
Nearby Attractions
Beyond the impressive Semnan Arg Square, several other noteworthy attractions await visitors in Semnan. These include:
Semnan History Museum
Located nearby, this museum offers insights into the region’s past. A notable feature is the painting of the Asiatic cheetah, a symbol of Semnan. Exhibits cover local history, including sections on the area’s animal and plant life and their interaction with human development.
Pachenar Castle
Semnan was the birthplace of Fath-Ali Shah and for this reason it had a strategic position. If you travel to this city, you will see a castle with high walls. Of course, very few people are not afraid of seeing it. This castle is the same Pachnar Castle that can create exciting moments for you. Pachenar Castle or Twin Castle has a large number of stairs that lead to the roof of the castle. The reason for building this building was to maintain security during the reign of Fath-Ali Shah, which has now become one of the sights of Semnan.
Taheri House near Semnan Arg Square
Old houses with historical architecture welcome us to the warm days that they have recorded in themselves. Taheri House is one of the sights of Semnan, which is known as one of the aristocratic houses of the Qajar era. This building was built in the middle of a large garden and dates back to 1346 AH.
This house consists of different parts such as the servant’s room, the interior section, the exterior section, the cistern, the vestibule porch, the basement and the kitchen. When you want to enter Taheri House in Semnan, a beautiful vestibule is waiting for you to reach the central courtyard of the building after passing through it and a few steps. This building has 2 courtyards, and when you enter it, you first enter the main courtyard, and the sub-courtyard is located right behind the building. The Taheri House’s windbreaks indicate the dry climate in this city, which cools the air on hot summer days.
Amir Mansion and Garden
The Qajar period has left many legacies, one of which is the Amir Mansion and Garden of Semnan. This mansion, which has now become one of the sights of Semnan, was inspired by the architecture of the Safavid era in its construction. When entering the Bakh section, the beautiful tile works that are seen in seven colors will keep your eyes fixed on them for a long time.
After entering the Amir Semnan Mansion, you will see plaster columns that have kept this view alive. The blue polygonal pond with the water fountain has made the atmosphere of the garden more pleasant. The Amir Mansion and Garden houses various devices such as old telephones, World War II telephones and various manual telephones that you can visit when visiting this place.
Pahneh Bathhouse
Also known as Pahneh Bath or Hazrat Bath, this historically significant bathhouse is a national monument located in the city center, dating back to the Safavid and Qajar eras. Its beautiful dome-shaped roof with intricate tiling and original skylights is a highlight. While a historical symbol, the space inside now houses booths selling jewelry and souvenirs.
Komesh Seal and Coin Museum
For a unique look at Semnan’s history through its currency and official documents, visit this museum near the Arg Square. It features an extensive collection of coins, banknotes, seals, and stamps from various periods, offering a fascinating perspective on past governments and economies in the region.
The best time to visit Semnan
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) generally offer the most pleasant weather, with comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying the natural landscapes surrounding the city. Summers (June-August) in Semnan can be scorching, making outdoor activities less appealing for some. Winters (December-February) can be cold, potentially limiting exploration of desert regions or mountain trails. Therefore, carefully considering your preferences for weather and activities will help you determine the ideal time for your visit.
Final words
The Semnan Arg Square is a surviving piece of a citadel, a stunning example of Qajar art and architecture, and a living piece of Semnan’s history, its colorful tiles continuing to tell stories centuries after they were laid. It is a must-see for anyone exploring the historical landscapes of Iran.
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FAQ
What is the architectural style of the Semnan Arg Square?
The gate is an example of Qajar-era architecture, known for its elaborate tilework, intricate brickwork, and overall grandeur. Expect to see vibrant colors and detailed patterns.
What are some of the key architectural features of the gate?
Key features typically include: Tilework: The most striking element, usually featuring floral motifs, geometric patterns, and historical scenes. Arched entrance: A large, imposing archway serves as the main entrance. Towers: Often flanked by towers that add to the gate’s defensive and aesthetic appeal. Brickwork: Intricate and decorative brickwork that complements the tilework. Inscriptions: Often includes inscriptions in Persian script, such as religious verses or historical dates.
Is the Semnan Arg Square open to the public?
Yes, the area around the gate is generally open to the public. You can walk around it and admire its architecture. However, access to the interior (if there is one) might be restricted. It’s best to check with local tourism offices for the most up-to-date information.
Are there any other attractions nearby?
Yes, Semnan has other historical and cultural attractions. Researching nearby mosques, museums, and traditional bazaars can enhance your visit.