Golestan Palace to go virtually for hearing impaired

The UNESCO-registered Iran-based Golestan Palace in the heart and historic core of Tehran has been launching virtual tours for hearing impaired visitors.

A number of short videos are being produced to depict the history of the former royal palace with the presence of a tour guide and in sign language, according to the director of the World Heritage site.

Because of the coronavirus outbreak and the masks worn by museum guides, lip-reading was not possible for the hearing-impaired visitors, thus, it appears necessary to produce these videos, the official added.

This project aims to provide equal citizenship opportunities to all members of society, especially hearing impaired individuals.

Golestan Palace complex is one of the oldest in the Iranian capital, originally built during the Safavid dynasty.

The complex consists of eight key palace structures mostly used as museums. It is a destination for domestic and international travelers.

“The complex exemplifies architectural and artistic achievements of the Qajar era including the introduction of European motifs and styles into Persian arts,” writes UNESCO official website.

Exploring the palace complex may take two or three hours. Next to the palace lies the bustling Grand Bazaar of Tehran, which is a top place to get a glimpse of local life.

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