Iran has a rich history and culture with a very long history. Iran is considered one of the top ten countries whose historical heritage and monuments are registered with UNESCO. It is interesting to know that Iran ranks seventh in this organization due to having historical monuments dating back more than four thousand years BC, it is considered one of the historical lands of UNESCO. In this article, explore with us as we introduce the Seven Wonders of Iran.
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What are the Seven Wonders of Iran?
As you know, Iran’s attractions are not just one or two, and one is more interesting, unique, and amazing than the other. However, some of these attractions have become more famous than others due to their special features and have attracted more attention from Iranian and foreign tourists.
When we talk about the Seven Wonders of the World, we know we are dealing with a fixed list of amazing world attractions. But there is no registered list or organization for the “Seven Wonders of Iran” and we have only chosen this title to introduce seven of Iran’s attractions that are very famous worldwide and visiting them is mandatory for every tourist. If you are interested in learning more about these attractions, explore further with Eligasht Travel Agency.
1. Persepolis, the First United Nations of the World
The first item on the list of Iran’s attractions, which can be considered one of the Seven Wonders of Iran, is Persepolis or Takht-e Jamshid. Persepolis is perhaps the most astonishing historical structure in Iran. This palace complex, which had a city surrounding it, served as the capital of Iran for long periods and was built by the order of the Achaemenid kings. It was inhabited for about 200 years and used for ceremonial purposes.
Persepolis has been referred to as the first United Nations of the world among Iran’s attractions because representatives from various parts of the world would come to the king of Iran on New Year’s Day with gifts, demonstrating their peace, friendship, and loyalty to the Achaemenid government. The construction of this grand palace complex began in 518 BCE, with Darius the Great laying its foundation stone. After him, Xerxes and Artaxerxes I continued the construction of this magnificent palace complex.
More about Persepolis
Persepolis, which is considered one of the most unique attractions in Iran, is also known by other names such as “Hundred Gates,” “Parseh,” and “Forty Columns.” It is located near the Marvdasht plain, at the foothills of Rahmat Mountain, in Fars Province, and the city of Marvdasht near Shiraz. Persepolis is, in fact, a collection of several palaces built on top of each other, serving different purposes, with a city surrounding it. This city had three sections: the citadel, the town, and the outer part, with the citadel being its administrative center, situated on a stone terrace of Mount Rahmat.
It is said that during the 120 years of construction and development of Persepolis, no slave labor was used. All workers received sufficient wages, unemployment insurance, and various benefits. This information has been obtained from documents and tablets discovered in the northwestern part of Persepolis. The complex had a population of over 40,000 people. Despite the fact that the structure was destroyed by fire, and a significant portion of it was lost, visiting Persepolis will still leave you in awe of its grandeur and magnificence.
2. Takht-e Khosrow: Symbol of Past Glory
The second item on the list of Iran’s attractions and the Seven Wonders of Iran is the famous Takht-e Khosrow. It can be considered one of the most remarkable architectural works in Iranian history. This extraordinary structure is located in Ctesiphon, Iraq, and was built by order of the Sasanian kings. It is interesting to note that the width of this arch is 25 meters, making it the widest-arched structure in Iranian architecture, surpassing even the famous Cow’s Bridge.
Although the exact date of its construction is uncertain, it is believed to have been initiated by Shapur I around 224 CE. Takht-e Khosrow, also known as the Khosrow Arch or the Arch of Ctesiphon, has left its mark even in the poems of ancient Persian poets such as Hafez, Saadi, and Ferdowsi. The famous Spring of Khosrow carpet was also spread in this arch, but unfortunately, it was shattered piece by piece during the Arab invasion. This arch, which is the remaining part of the Ctesiphon Palace, was once the venue for important events and grand national celebrations.
3. Naqsh-e Jahan Square: A Page of Iran’s History
The third item on the list of Iran’s attractions and the Seven Wonders of Iran is Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan. This historical square is, in fact, the most well-preserved and astonishing historical structure in Iran that stands to this day. As you may know, this square houses incredibly valuable and magnificent buildings on all four sides.
You might want to know a little about the history of this square. During the reign of Shah Abbas II of the Safavid dynasty, due to the congestion of the area caused by the presence of the market, an order was given to demolish the old structures and create an additional square alongside the ancient square and Shah Square. This new square was called “Meidan-e Now” (New Square), and over time, it became known as Naqsh-e Jahan Square. Unfortunately, over time, these additional squares disappeared, and only the Shah Square remains, standing strong.
A bit more about Naqsh-e Jahan Square
It is good to know that Naqsh-e Jahan Square is listed as one of Iran’s attractions on the UNESCO World Heritage List and is recognized as the second-largest square in the world in terms of length and width. Among the historical tourist attractions located in this square, we should mention the Imam Mosque (Shah Mosque), Ali Qapu Palace, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Qeysarieh Portal, which serves as the main entrance to Isfahan’s bazaar. Additionally, there are two hundred two-story chambers surrounding the square, where Isfahan’s handicrafts are often sold.
This historical square, which is one of the most touristy areas in our country, is now known as a symbol of Isfahan and Iran in the world.
4. Eram Garden in Shiraz: A Terrestrial Paradise in Iran
One cannot talk about Iran’s attractions and the Seven Wonders of Iran without mentioning the Eram Garden in Shiraz. Eram Garden is located in the northern part of the city and is truly a lush and beautiful terrestrial paradise on Earth. In addition to its historical structure with exceptional and remarkable architecture, this garden impresses every visitor. Furthermore, the botanical garden within this area is considered one of the most valuable plant collections in Iran, featuring various rare and exotic plants.
A bit more about Eram Garden in Shiraz:
Eram Garden in Shiraz is an example of a Persian garden, which captivates visitors with its citrus trees and the majestic cypress trees surrounding it. The central nucleus of this garden belongs to the Qajar period. The tall and ancient cypresses have multiplied the beauty of this garden several times over. Eram Garden spans an area of 110,380 square meters and was registered as a national heritage site on November 5, 1974. It is said to date back to the Seljuk period but expanded during the Zand dynasty.
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5. Haft Tapeh, Representative of Ancient Iranian Culture
Haft Tapeh in Khuzestan is an astonishing historical site among the Seven Wonders of Iran. This historical site is located in the city of Shush in Khuzestan Province and captivates every tourist who visits it.
Haft Tapeh was first discovered by a French archaeologist named de Morgan, and later, Mr. Negahban undertook excavations in this area. Artifacts were found in these excavations that appear to be the remains of a historical city belonging to the Elamite civilization. These artifacts include the remains of houses and human skeletons. This historical site is registered with UNESCO. It is interesting to note that the Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat is also located near Haft Tapeh, and you can visit both at the same time.
A bit more about Haft Tapeh:
It is good to know that Haft Tapeh is a collection of 14 ancient mounds located approximately 15 kilometers southeast of the city of Shush, at a distance of about 23 kilometers from the Chogha Zanbil temple. Similar ziggurat remains have also been discovered in this area. Among the other wonders of Haft Tapeh is the discovery of several hundred sacrificial victims, which are evidence of a historical massacre. Numerous clay tablets and historical objects have been found in this historical site, which contain valuable information about the Elamite civilization, and you can see them at the Haft Tapeh Museum.
6. Menar Jonban, a Unique Attraction
Among the other attractions of Iran and its Seven Wonders, we should mention Menar Jonban in Isfahan. This structure is a mausoleum that serves as the burial place of Uncle Abdullah Karladani, a renowned figure from the year 716 AH. However, what makes this building one of the Seven Wonders of Iran is its astonishing vibrating minarets. This place, known as Menar Jonban, has two minarets with a diameter of 9 meters and a height of 17 meters.
A little more about Menar jonban
The interesting thing about Menar jonban, this is one of the sights of Iran, is that by shaking one of the minarets, the other minaret and even the whole building shakes, creating an attractive and spectacular scene of the combination of Iranian art with the advanced engineering science of Iran’s past in the eyes of the visitors.
Researchers have not yet found a logical reason for this. There are other buildings in Iran and Iraq with this feature, but the complexity of the architecture and the reason for their shaking are still unknown. However, some consider the reason for this phenomenon to be related to Doppler or resonance theory. It should be mentioned that the single-bay Menar jonban mansion was built in the Ilkhanid period and in the Mongolian style. However, the construction of minarets indicates that they were added to Ivan in the last years of Safavid rule.
7. Vank Church of Isfahan, a colorful painting of Armenians
Although the sights of Iran are endless, the last item in our list of seven wonders of Iran still belongs to the fascinating city of Isfahan. Vank Church, which is located in Jolfa neighborhood of Isfahan (Armenian neighborhood), is one of the masterpieces of Armenian engineering in Iran, whose beauty and splendor will amaze every visitor.
The building of this church is a combination of Iranian and European architecture and its walls are illustrated with historical stories of Christians. It is interesting to know that this church is very popular and dear not only in Iran but also among the Christians of the world.
A little more about Vank Church
It is good to know that Vanak Church, one of the sights of Iran, was built by Armenian immigrants during the Safavid era of Shah Abbas. Although the original form of this building was slightly different from the present church. It should be noted that this church was only used religiously for Christians at first; But today, most attention is attracted to its historical value and cultural attraction.
This church is actually the largest and most famous church in Iran and is also known as “Amnaperkich”. Vank is one of the 13 remaining churches in Jolfa neighborhood of Isfahan from the 17th century AD and it means monastery in Armenian language. Vank Church is one of the most amazing sights in Iran, and over the years, it not only found its religious place among the people of Isfahan, especially the Armenians living in Jolfa neighborhood, but also became an administrative place and the center of social events. It is interesting to know that the first printing press in Iran and the Middle East was established in the courtyard of this church.
Final words
Iran, our beloved country, is rich in history, culture, and civilization, which has given rise to various historical and tourist attractions. Some of Iran’s wonders are truly astonishing and have amazed researchers and visitors from around the world. In this article, we introduced seven of Iran’s wonders, known as the Seven Wonders of Iran, and discussed the unique features that set them apart from other attractions. We hope this article from Eligasht has helped you become more familiar with the culture and art of Iran.
FAQ
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What is the best time to visit the Seven Wonders of Iran?
The best time to visit the Seven Wonders of Iran is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer ideal conditions for exploring both historical sites and natural landscapes.
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Are the Seven Wonders of Iran accessible to tourists?
Yes, the Seven Wonders of Iran are accessible to tourists. Most of these sites are well-maintained and equipped with visitor facilities. However, it’s advisable to check for any travel restrictions or requirements before planning your visit.
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How can I learn more about the history and significance of these wonders?
To learn more about the history and significance of the Seven Wonders of Iran, you can visit local museums, hire knowledgeable guides, or explore online resources and books dedicated to Persian history and culture.