Iran

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Entry posted by korver · July 13, 2020

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Iran is a theocratic Islamic republic in the Middle East and is one of Asia's largest and most populous countries. The country has a rich history stretching back over 2,500 years to the Achaemenid dynasty (559–330 BC) and was also the core of the ancient empire that was known as Persia until 1935. Persian art, literature, architecture, and music have deep roots which are still visible today across the world. Today, the country is home to some of the world's most unique and beautiful architecture - and its landscapes are quite impressive as well.

Our journey to Iran starts with a trip back in time to Ancient Persia. Modern-day Iran is among the oldest inhabited regions in the world, and large forts and citadels once occupied the spaces where modern cities sprawl today.

We travel forward into modern times, and our first sight from modern Iran can be found in the city of Esfahan. Esfahan is home to countless beautiful buildings, mosques, and bridges - and perhaps the symbol of the city is the beautiful Khaju Bridge. The Khaju Bridge is one of the historical bridges on the Zayanderud, the largest river of the Iranian Plateau. Serving as both a bridge and a weir, it links the Khaju quarter on the north bank with the Zoroastrian quarter across the Zayanderud.

The next Iranian city we'll be visiting can be found some 150 miles north - the ancient city of Qom. Qom is home to some of Iran's most stunning mosques such as the Azadi Mosque, which is known for its mesmerizing dome.

We travel north from Qom into the heart of mountain country - the mighty Elburz Mountains stretch from Iran's border with Azerbaijan along the country's northern Caspian Sea border and contain many of it's highest peaks. Although much of the mountains and rugged highlands are bare and desolate - mountain streams bring needed greenery to the area, which makes farming these rugged parts possible.

The Elburz' crown jewel is majestic Mount Damavand - a potentially active volcano rising 18,406 feet tall. It's the highest point in Iran and the Middle East - as well as being the highest volcano in Asia. Damavand has a special place in Persian mythology and folklore.

Our last two sights come from Iran's sprawling capital city - Tehran. The Azadi Tower (formerly known as the Shahyad Tower) is a massive monument located on Azadi Square in the heart of the city. It is the symbol of Tehran, marking the west entrance to the city, and is part of the Azadi Cultural Complex, which also includes an underground museum.

One final overview of central Tehran with a few of the city's tallest structures in view alongside Hakim Expressway - the 1,427 ft tall Milad Tower (the world's sixth tallest tower) and the 531 ft tall Tehran International Tower (the city's tallest skyscraper).