Top Iranian cities where ancient civilizations still echo through

Iran’s history is measured not in decades or centuries, but in millennia, making the country among top travel locations for those drawn to ancient destinations.

The diverse civilization of Iran has not only developed agriculture and architecture but art, ideas and poetry. Combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome, Iran is a treasure house for some of the most beautiful Islamic architecture on the planet.  

Following is a selection of ancient cities, deemed as top destinations, in the Islamic Republic.

Shiraz

The ancient city of Shiraz is the city of love and literature. It is the origin of first samples of Persian gardens which are the unique example of hospitality and warmness of its people.

The world-renown Persepolis, Vakil Bazaar, Shah Cheraq Mausoleum, and tomb complexes of Sa’di and Hafez, the two great Persian poets, and the spectacular Eram Garden are only a small fraction of the city’s many tourist attractions that should not be missed.

Kashan

With a history dating back to over ten thousand years ago, the architectural style of Kashan's ancient houses is certainly the most memorable image that this old city provides its visitors with.  

The annual Golab-giri (rosewater distillation) ceremony of Kashan attracts huge crowds to the city every year.  Some of the most ancient traces of civilization have been discovered near Kashan at the Sialk archeological site.

Isfahan

Isfahan Province has long been famous as cultural melting pot with some of the most exquisite examples of Islamic architecture, including the biggest square in the world, Naqsh-e Jahan.

Among its many other tourist attractions, Si-o-se-pol, the Grand Bazaar, and Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque are the most noteworthy.

Kerman

Kerman, according to the historical narrations, is one of the oldest cities of Iran. By passing the time it has kept valuable historical and cultural treasures that declare the historical process and socio-economic life of the country.

Ganjali Khan Complex, Malik Mosque, and Shazdeh Garden are among the most popular tourist attractions in Kerman.

Yazd  

Yazd is the only UNESCO-listed Iranian city known to be the world's largest and first inhabited adobe city and the second historical city after Venice, Italy.

Yazd's historical monuments include Yazd Jame'h Mosque, Seyyed Rokneddin Mausoleum, Amir Chaqmaq Complex, Lariha House, Alexander Prison, Narin Castle, Chak Chak Temple and Water Museum.

Tabriz

The most populous city in northwestern Iran, Tabriz has been the capital of Iran in many historical periods.

The 700-year-old Arg of Tabriz, Tabriz Bazaar Complex, the Masoleum of Poets, as well as the many museums and gardens throughout the city, are among its main tourist attractions.

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