Shiraz is the capital of Fars Province and is located in the southwest of Iran. It is considered one of the 10 most populous cities in the country.
Known as the city of flowers, wine, poems, literature, and gardens, throughout its long history, it has become one of the most popular travel destinations in Iran.
Consequently, there is a fantastic and unparalleled treasure of discovery, enough to satisfy every traveler as they explore the city’s ancient past and new modern face.
Sites You Must Visit In Shiraz
Persepolis
Persepolis is an ancient palace complex located in Shiraz, Iran. It was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, which was one of the largest and most powerful empires in the ancient world. The complex was built over 2,500 years ago and it is now one of Iran’s most important cultural and archaeological sites.
Persepolis was built by the Achaemenid King Darius I in the 5th century BCE and was used for important religious and political events, such as the celebration of the New Year. The complex is made up of several buildings, including the Apadana Palace, the Throne Hall, the Tachara Palace, and the Treasury, among others.
The buildings at Persepolis are known for their impressive architecture, which features stone columns, reliefs, and intricate carvings. The reliefs depict scenes from everyday life, as well as important events and battles.
Today, Persepolis is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can walk among the ruins and admire the beauty of this ancient palace complex, which provides a unique window into the past and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Iran.
Naqshe Rostam
Naqsh e Rostam is an ancient necropolis located near the city of Shiraz, Iran. It is the site of several ancient tombs and rock reliefs that date back to the Achaemenid Empire (550-330 BCE).
The tombs at Naqsh-e Rostam are carved into the side of a cliff and they consist of large, rectangular chambers that are accessed through a stairway. Some of the tombs have elaborate reliefs depicting scenes from ancient Persian mythology and history.
In addition to the tombs, Naqsh-e Rostam is also famous for its rock reliefs, which are large carvings that were created by chiseling away the rock face. The most famous of these reliefs is the relief of Darius the Great, who was one of the greatest Achaemenid kings.
Naqsh-e Rostam is an important historical site that offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Persia.
Pasargade
Pasargadae was the first capital of the Achaemenid Empire, which was founded by Cyrus the Great in the 6th century BCE. It is located in the Fars province of Iran, near the city of Shiraz.
Pasargadae was a significant center of power, commerce, and culture during the Achaemenid period and was the birthplace of one of the first-world empires in human history.
The site contains several monuments, including the Tomb of Cyrus the Great, the Palace of Cyrus, the Gate of All Nations, and several gardens. The most famous of these monuments is the Tomb of Cyrus the Great, which is a simple structure that consists of a stone platform and a small chamber that is covered by a dome. The dome is supported by six columns. The chamber contained the sarcophagus of Cyrus the Great.
Pasargadae is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered to be one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Iran. Visitors to Pasargadae can admire the beautiful surroundings, explore the ancient ruins, and learn more about the life and legacy of Cyrus the Great and the Achaemenid Empire.
Zandiyeh Complex
Vakil Mosque
Vakil Mosque is a historic mosque located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It was built in the 18th century during the Zand dynasty and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Persian mosque architecture.
The mosque is built in a traditional Persian style and features a large central courtyard surrounded by a covered arcade. The entrance of the mosque is marked by two towering minarets, which are adorned with intricate tile work and calligraphy.
The interior of the mosque is notable for its stunning tile work, which covers the walls and domes in rich shades of blue, yellow, and green. The mosque also features several beautiful examples of calligraphy, including an inscription in Kufic script that runs around the perimeter of the main dome.
In addition to its architectural and artistic merits, the Vakil Mosque also played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Shiraz during the Zand period. Today, it continues to be an important place of worship.
Vakil Historical Bath
The Vakil Historical Bath is an ancient public bath located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It was built in the 18th century during the reign of the Zand dynasty and is considered one of the finest examples of traditional Persian bathhouses.
The bath is composed of several large rooms, including a central dome, changing rooms, a hot room, and a cold room. The bath’s design is notable for its use of intricate tilework, stonework, and wooden details, which give it a unique and beautiful appearance.
The bath was used as a place for social gatherings, as well as a place to wash and cleanse the body. It was also believed to have therapeutic benefits, as the hot rooms were used to treat various ailments.
Today, the Vakil Historical Bath is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors come to admire its architecture and learn about it. The bath has been restored and is now open to the public, providing a glimpse into the traditional public bath culture of Iran
Eram Garden
The Eram Garden also known as the Eram Botanical Garden, is a beautiful and historic garden located in Shiraz, Iran. The garden is set within a spacious park that covers an area of about 11 hectares and is known for its lush greenery, stunning architecture, and diverse collection of flora and fauna.
The Eram Garden is a perfect example of traditional Persian gardening and architecture, and its design reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The garden is divided into several sections, each with its own unique character and atmosphere. The central section of the garden is dominated by a large pond, which is surrounded by tall cypress trees and elaborate flower beds.
The Eram Garden is also home to several historic buildings, including a palace, a mosque, and a small museum. The palace is particularly notable for its beautiful tile work, stucco decoration, and wooden columns. The mosque, which was built in the 19th century, is also worth a visit for its intricate architecture and beautiful calligraphy.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is considered to be one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Iran and let you learn more about Persian garden design.
The Tomb of Hafez
The Tomb of Hafez is a memorial dedicated to the famous Persian poet Hafez located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. Hafez, who lived in the 14th century, is widely considered one of the greatest Persian poets and is revered for his contributions to Persian literature and culture.
The tomb, which is set within a beautifully landscaped garden, is a popular tourist attraction and is considered a must-visit for those interested in Persian poetry and literature. Visitors come to pay their respects to the poet and to enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the garden.
The tomb is also considered a place of pilgrimage for those who follow the teachings of Hafez and believe in the spiritual powers attributed to his poetry. Visitors often recite poems from Hafez’s works and make offerings at the tomb in the hope of receiving guidance and blessings.
In addition to the tomb, the garden also features several other structures, including a stone pavilion, an open-air theater, and a small museum dedicated to the life and works of the poet. The garden is also surrounded by high walls and is decorated with beautiful greenery, adding to its peaceful and serene atmosphere.
The Tomb of Saadi
The Tomb of Saadi is a memorial dedicated to the famous Persian poet Saadi, located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. Saadi, who lived in the 13th century, is widely regarded as one of the greatest Persian poets of all time and is revered for his contributions to Persian literature and culture.
The tomb is set within a beautiful garden, which is one of the most famous and well-visited tourist attractions in Shiraz. The garden is known for its serene atmosphere and the peacefulness that surrounds the tomb. Visitors come to pay their respects to the poet and to enjoy the beauty of the garden.
In addition to the tomb, the garden also features several other structures, including a stone pavilion, an open-air theater, and a small museum dedicated to the life and works of Saadi. The garden is also surrounded by high walls and is decorated with beautiful greenery, adding to its peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Visitors often recite poems from Saadi’s works and make offerings at the tomb in the hope of receiving guidance and blessings. The tomb is also considered a place of pilgrimage for those who follow the teachings of Saadi and believe in the spiritual powers attributed to his poetry.
Vakil Bazaar
The Vakil Bazaar is a historic marketplace located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It is considered one of the largest and most important bazaars in Iran and has been a center of trade and commerce for hundreds of years.
The bazaar is comprised of a series of interconnected streets and alleyways, lined with shops and stalls selling a wide range of goods, including textiles, spices, sweets, jewelry, and handmade crafts. The bazaar is also home to several caravanserais, which were traditionally used by travelers and merchants as a place to rest and conduct business.
The Vakil bazaar is considered one of the finest examples of Persian market architecture, with its beautifully ornate arches, vaulted ceilings, and intricate tilework. The bazaar is also noted for its central courtyard, which is surrounded by covered walkways and shops.
The Vakil Bazaar is an important cultural center and is an inseparable part of everyday life in Shiraz. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience the bustling atmosphere and shop for local goods and souvenirs.
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque
Nasir al-Mulk Mosque also known as the Pink Mosque, is a historic mosque located in the city of Shiraz, Iran. It is famous for its stunning interior, which is covered in vibrant pink, yellow, and blue tiles.
The mosque was built in the late 19th century and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Persian mosque architecture. It is named after its patron, Nasir al-Mulk, who was a wealthy merchant and philanthropist.
The mosque is particularly known for its beautiful stained glass windows, which are located in the main prayer hall. These windows are designed to let in the morning sun, casting colorful patterns of light on the walls and floor. The mosque also features several examples of intricate tile work, calligraphy, and stucco decoration.
In addition to its architectural and artistic merits, the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque is also an important place of worship and continues to be used for daily prayers.
Quran Gate
The Quran Gate is a monument located in Shiraz, Iran. It was built in the late 19th century and is a popular tourist attraction known for its intricate tile work and calligraphy that adorns its walls and entrance. It is said to be one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and serves as a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Shahe Cheragh Holy Shrine
The Shahcheragh Holy Shrine is a religious site in Shiraz, Iran that is dedicated to Imam Reza’s brother, Ahmad. It is one of the most important shrines in Iran and is visited by thousands of people each year, both for its religious significance and for its architectural beauty. The shrine is renowned for its intricate tile work, mirror work, and calligraphy, as well as its stunning green dome, which is said to be one of the largest in Iran. It is considered a place of pilgrimage for Shia Muslims and is an important part of the city’s cultural and religious heritage.
Mausoleum of Ali Ibn Hamza
The Mausoleum of Ali Ibn Hamza is a historical site located in Shiraz, Iran. It is the final resting place of Ali Ibn Hamza, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, who was buried in the city during the early days of Islam. The mausoleum is considered one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Shiraz and is revered by both Sunnis and Shias. It has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries, and today it is considered a beautiful example of Persian Islamic architecture, featuring intricate tile work, calligraphy, and a dome. Visitors to the mausoleum can admire its historical and religious significance, and pay their respects to the revered companion of the Prophet.
Foods You Must Try in Shiraz
Kalam Polo
Kalam Polo is a popular food among Iranians that is cooked in different ways throughout Iran, but it is specifically a local food of Shiraz.
Kalam Polo Shirazi is a food that will surely surprise you with its aroma and taste.
In the Persian language, Kalam means cabbage, and Polo means rice
So it is obvious that the main ingredients of this food are rice, cabbage, meatballs, and fragrant herbs.
The composition of Herbs in Kalamo Polo is unique and includes leeks, tarragon, basil, and dill. All of them can be used fresh or dried.
This dish is usually served with Salad e Shirazi, pickles, or yogurt.
You can experience how to make this authentic Shirazi food with Wegoiran company in Shiraz daily tours or food tours.
