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ISFAHAN |  | |  Copyright: reza amini  |  |  | | | | | | :: Palaces and Edifices. | |  | This palace was also called 'Daulat Khaneh-e-Mobarakeh Nagsh-e-Jahan' and the 'Daulat Khaneh Palace'. Its unique archaic architecture is related to the Safavid era. This edifice was constructed under the orders of Shah Abbas I. The monarch would receive special envoys in this palace and hold his audience here. Valuable miniature paintings, the works of the reputed artist of the times Reza Abbassi, and other traditional works of art can be noted here. | Plasterwork of the 'sound room' was modeled such that the acoustic affect produced natural and pleasant sounds. The sovereign and his guests would be spectators to polo, illuminations, fire-works and the dramatics that took place in the Nagsh-e-Jahan Square from the halls of this elegant palace.
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| This structure is within the palace and was erected during the reign of Shah Abbas II with the aid of scaffolds. The roof of which is flat and supported by thick, tall columns covered with gold. The said structure was put under repair about fifty years ago, in order to prevent it from being destroyed. | | ![]() | The Chehel Sotune Palace and its garden cover an area of approximately 67,000 sq. m. This palace was constructed during the reign of Shah Abbas I. Shah Abbas II was also responsible for additions to this palace, such as the hall of mirrors, the hall of 18 pillars and two large chambers facing the north and south. The spectacular hall of mirrors with its decorative mirror work, tile work and paintings, along with its majestic porches and pool which faces this hall, | all add to its splendor. Interesting aspects of the Chehel Sotune Palace are: The stone lions at the four corners of the central pool, the hall and marble and vaulted cornices around it. The gilded adornments, paintings and the portrait of the sovereign in the royal hall. Along with that of the chambers surrounding the hall of mirrors. The portrait of Shah Abbas I with the special crown and the miniatures of the treasury room. Several facades such as the 'Qotbiyeh Mosque', 'Zaviyeh in Kushk', and the imprints of the 'Dar-e-Joubareh' and 'Aqasi Mosque' are affixed in the western and southern walls of the garden. The hall and porches of this palace were constructed during the fifth year of the reign of Shah Abbas II. The reflection of the twenty pillars of the hall in the pool opposite the palace brings about a conception of forty pillars. Hence the name Chehel Sotune.
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| Fin Historical Edifice and Garden, Kashan | ![]() | This garden is located to the south of the city of Kashan and near the village of Fin. The same was constructed on the former structures of the Al-e-Booyeh era. Its general layout and aqua system has been rendered special attention. This vicinity gained fame due to the murder of Amir Kabir, the reputed nationalist and Prime Minister (Grand Chancellor) of Nasereddin Shah Qajar. Amir Kabir was assassinated in a small bath here in the year 1268 A.H. by the order of the | Shah.This garden is a relic from the Safavid period, and has remained such for centuries due to the capacity of water it gains from the Soleimaniyeh spring. today, this water flows into the 'Lasegah' pool after meandering through this beautiful garden, and providing water for the surrounding areas. | ![]()
| The structures of this garden are the entrance and its facade, tower and ramparts, the Safavid and Fathali Shah sections, chambers for the elite, the museum on the western side of the premises, the large and small bath and the library in the eastern sector of this garden.The covered construction housing the Shah Abbasi section is in two floors, this being in the center of the garden and opposite the grand facade. The construction of the same was completed in the year 1226 A.H. Here, | there are beautiful paintings and an inscription worked with plaster in the 'nastaliq' script. In the vicinity of this garden, several monarchs such as Shah Safi, Shah Soleiman, Shah Tahmasb, Shah Abbas, Karim Khan Zand and Fath Ali Shah have all contributed in the repair or making addition to the structures on the premises. However, these structures witnessed plunder in the early period of the constitutional revolution.
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| | Hasht Behesht Palace, Esfahan | ![]()
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| This historical edifice was constructed during the reign of Shah Soleiman Safavid. today, only a minor portion of the grounds remains. However, tile work with interesting designs, which are the remnants of this palace can be noted. |
:: Castles. | | This ancient castle is located near the Alavian Mosque in the Babol Masjed locality. The architectural affects of this castle reveal that it was a fire temple in the pre-Islamic period. The same has been constructed of baked bricks, and dates back to the Parthian and Sassanid eras. The height of this castle from streets and alleys is 5 m. whereas, from the depth of the moat it is 40 m.
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| Other Castles, Esfahan | Other castles in this province include the Rostam Bafaran, Neyestanak Castles in Naein, the Farfan Castle in Esfahan, Torshak Castle in the Marq Village of Esfahan, Deeyu and Jalali Castles in Kashan, Sangi Castle in the township of Semirom, and the Bozi Castle in Lanjan.
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| The above mentioned took its foundation in the late Teimooride period, and was constructed according to what it is currently in 1060 AH, under the orders of Shah Abbas II. Its cubicles, adornments and tile work areinteresting aspects of this construction. There is a structure in the center of the bridge, known as the Beglarbegi construction. The same was used as a temporary residence for the royal family. The name of this bridge is a distorted version of the word 'Khajeh'which was a | title for great personalities in the Safavid era. It was constructed on the Zayandeh Rood River.
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| | Marnan (Marbin) Bridge, Esfahan | This bridge connects the northern and southern banks of the Zayandeh Rood River. It is a remnant of the Safavid era, and today has undergone repairs repeatedly.
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| | Sa'adat Abad (Pol-e-Jooye) Bridge, Esfahan | The said bridge is narrow in width and 147 m. in length. It was constructed on the Zayandeh Rood River, between the two bridges of Allah Verdy Khan and Khajoo. The same is a remnant of Shah Abbas II. This bridge connects the royal gardens on the northern and southern banks of the Zayandeh Rood river, with that of the gardens of Sa'adat Abad and other reputed constructions. Besides being a promenade for the royalty, commanders, the elite and special envoys.
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| | Shahrestan Bridge, Esfahan | This bridge is located in the east of Esfahan and is an interesting piece of architecture. The same is a relic of the Sassanid period.
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 | | Sio Seh Pol (Allah Verdy Khan) Bridge, Esfahan | ![]()
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| This bridge is approximately 300 m. in length and 14 m. in width, and is one of the masterpieces in bridge construction in Iran and the world. The same was constructed in 1005 A.H. under the supervision and expense of Allah Verdy Khan, one of the famous commanders of Shah Abbas Safavid I. The Armenians used to hold special festivities near this bridge in the Safavid period. It was constructed on the Zayandeh Rood River. | | Mahyar Carvansery, Esfahan | This caravansary with its four porches is to the dimensions of 82 x 89 sq. m. and with a rectangular courtyard covering an area of 48.30 x 38.70 sq. m. is located in the south of Esfahan in the village of Mahyar. The chambers of this caravansary are 4 x 5 sq. m. Structures such as the mill, bakery, traditional teahouse and bazaar of this caravansary bear historical value.
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| | Sansan Carvansery, Esfahan | The same lies in the Sansan Village, at a distance of 40 km. on the Qom - Kashan road. This is a square structure with four porches and constructed of brick, sun baked bricks and clay. Adornments of brick can be observed here. The facade displays 14 arched roofs, and the entrance hall has three arched ceilings and springs. Each of the four sections of this caravansary has 16 rooms.
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| | Other Caravansaries, Esfahan | ![]() | These are named as, Sheikh Ali Khan, Jarchi Bashi, Teemcheh-e-Jahangir, Saray-e-Sefid, Mirza Kuchak, Mir Ismail and Khansariha in the bazaar of Esfahan. Maranjab, Amin-ud-Douleh, Gomrok, Mooteh and Gabr Abad in Kashan. Bazaar-e-Zavareh in Zavareh, Behjat Abad on the Esfahan - Natanz Road, Chahar Borj on the Esfahan - Kashan Road, the Gez caravansary north of Esfahan, Bahram on the Esfahan - Tehran Road, Madar-e-Shah in the north of Esfahan, Taqi | Abad, Golgoon Abad, Yagmeesh and Khargoosh on the Esfahan Road, and Dambi caravansary amongst others in Esfahan Province.
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:: Ancient Cities and Archaeological Hills. | | Arisman Ancient City, Natanz | ![]() | This historical site of 'Arisman' with 6000 years of antiquity is located in the Arisman Village in the township of Natanz. The same comprises of three archeological vicinities and lie in the skirts of the Karkas Mountains and to the north of it. This area resembles a workshop or foundry with colossal furnaces for the smelting of metals and the making of moulds. Earthenware evidences reveal that these are relics of the 4th and 1st millennium B.C. Other remnants are a brick construction | which was most probably a foundry, and a cemetery where an urn has been discovered.
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| | Sialk Hills, Kashan |  | Approximately 4,500 years B.C., a community with an interesting civilization was settled in this area and their tools were of stone and bone. There is a possibility that the former residents of this region had succumbed to their successors. Here, Elamite slabs of clay have been found, and due to the links of this community with that of the civilization of Shoosh (Susa), about 5,500 years ago, they learned to write. Thereby, several clay slabs with the most ancient Elamite script are | vestiges of this area. Evidences found in the cemetery between the two hillocks are related to the fresh immigrants to the Sialk Hill, which bears a strong resemblance to the discoveries in the Giyan Hillock of Nahavand and Khordin of Savoj Bollaq.
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:: Fire Temples. | | Kooh Sangy Fire Temple, Esfahan | The said fire-temple can be considered as one of the most ancient historical heritages of Esfahan. It is located at a short distance from the Zayandeh Rood, and distinctly draws ones attention in being outstanding in the western plains of Esfahan. Above the Kooh Sangy is a round and large clay brazier with a number of crevices. From where the fire was lighted even at the highest point of this vicinity and was capable of being seen even at a great distance. The walls of the fire-temple is a kind of platform, gradually beginning at the base and regaining a vast area in the upper portion, thus providing space for various rituals.
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| | Sangy (Stony) Fire Case, Semirom | The said brazier is related to the Achaemenian and Sassanid periods, but its pillars are from the Sassanid era. These are engraved with portraits of Khosrow Parviz on the upper part of the columns. One of the two of these pillars has been damaged.
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| | Sassanid Fire Temple, Natanz | This fire-temple is located near the Natanz mosque and is amidst a platform which is at an elevation of 2 m. from ground level. Only two of its four ceilings that connected the structure to the dome made of stone remain. The main structure was constructed of stone slabs coated with gypsum.
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:: Tombs. | | Baba Roknedin Tomb, Esfahan | This tomb is located in the cemetry of Takht-e-Poullad, to the south of the Zayandeh Rood. This structure is in shape of a pyramid with twelve panels. The current structure is of the Shah Abbas period. The exterior and facade is worked in tiles. The base of the dome is five-sided with five porches surrounding the structure below. The tomb is located in one of these porches and has a marble tombstone of over 2 m. in length and 1.16 m. in width and marble slabs with the dimensions of 163 x 89 cm. are affixed vertically around. This tomb is a relic of the Safavid era and was repaired in the year 1200 A.H.
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| | Feyz-e-Kashany Tomb, Kashan | This tomb lies to the west of the city of Kashan and near the large cemetery of the city. This tomb retained its simplicity according to the wish of the deceased, till recent years when certain renovations were performed.
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| | Majlesi Tomb, Esfahan | The said tomb is located to the north west of the Jame' mosque of Esfahan. Besides this tomb, there are other graves belonging to other personalities of the clergy are in this vicinity. The mausoleum is decorated with tiles, paintings and mirror work. The ancient facade has vaulted plaster, near which inscriptions dated 1093 A.H. can be noted.
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| | Mir Emad Tomb, Esfahan | The tomb of one of the famed calligraphers of the 'nastaliq' script, known as Emad-ol-Molk and reputedly called Mir, is located in the small courtyard of the Maqsud Bek mosque. In this tomb there is a slab of marble (70 x 35 cm.) affixed to the eastern wall, the same being engraved with verses.
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| | Mohtasham Kashany Tomb, Kashan | This famous personality, a poet of the Safavid era has been laid to rest in Kashan. The small dome of the mausoleum is decorated in tiles, and the ceiling of the mausoleum is adorned with beautiful paintings. On the walls, verses from his poems have been inscribed in white on a navy blue back ground, in the 'nastaliq' script.
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| | Peer-e-Bakran Tomb, Esfahan | This tomb is situated in the village of Peer-e-Bakran in Esfahan, and comprises of three sections, such as the porch, courtyard and high ceiling. The ceiling of the porch is adorned with the 'kufi' script, plaster work and floral design. The tomb is to the northern side of the mausoleum and near the chamber where this personality used to preach and utilize for worship. The mausoleum is adorned with tile and plasterwork and the walls between the tomb and courtyard are latticed. Here there are epigraphs in the 'kufi' script displaying religious verses. This structure was constructed in the year 703 A.H.
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| | Saeb-e-Tabrizy Tomb, Esfahan | This reputed poet was laid to rest in a vicinity known as Baq-e-Takiyeh. This site has taken inspiration from the architecture of the Safavid period. The same resembles a porch with a length of 14.20 m. its width and height being 6 and 8 m. respectively, and is at an elevation of about 2 m. from ground level, with ten steps surrounding it. The ceiling is designed with mirror work, and there are two entrances to the eastern and western sides of the porch, besides pillars and arches. The tombstone is in one piece of marble, and the old tomb stone is placed in the center of the grave. One of the poetical verses of this great poet has been inscribed on his tomb. Opposite this porch is a pool similar to that of the Chehel Sotune edifice.
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| | Shah Abbas Aval (1st) Tomb, Kashan | The tomb of Shah Abbas I is beneath a cubical slab of black and beautifully sculptured stone. Beneath which is a vault with three graves, one of these is that of the Safavid monarch. Nearby is the mausoleum of Habib-Ebne-Moosa (P.B.U.H.).
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| | Sohrab Sepehry Tomb, Mashhad Ardehal, Kashan | The tomb of Sohrab Sepehry, the contemporary mystic and naturalist poet is located in the village of Mashhad Ardehal village near Kashan. A romantic texture is reflected in the works of this poet.
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| | Other Tombs, Esfahan |  | These are named as, the Mir Fendereski, Shahzadehgan, Mirza Rafia, Valleh, Homami Shirazi, Mir Majdeddin Esmaeil Babol Dashti, Seyed Hojjat-ol- Islam Shafti, Baba Qasem, Al Raashed Balleh, Nezam-ol-Molk, Shahshehan, Khatoon Abadi, Haj Mohammad Jaffar Abadehi, Aqa Hossain Khansari, Khajeh Sa'ad, Sheikh Abol Qasem Nasr Abadi and Soltan Bakht Aqa Tombs in Esfahan. The Baba Afzal-e-Kashany and the Molla Fathollah tombs in Kashan. | The Seyed Vaqef tomb in the Afooshteh Village of Natanz . The Abdol Samad Natanzi (Samadiyeh) and the Mir Ahmad Nakhai (Chehel Dokhtaran) tombs in the township of Natanz.
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:: Minarets. | | Ali Mosque Minaret, Esfahan | 
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| This minaret is located in the ancient square of Esfahan near the Ali Mosque, and is a construction of the 6th century A.H. The same displays fine brickwork and inscriptions in the 'kufi' script. | | Baq-e-Qooshkhaneh Minaret, Esfahan | This minaret is situated in the Joobareh vicinity and is a vestige of the 8th century A.H., and is beautifully worked with tiles. Its name relates to the fact that this structure was near one of the royal gardens, where the falcons of the monarch, Shah Abbas I were housed.
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| | Baz Dome, Natanz | This dome is in the southwest of the city of Natanz, and located in the heights of the Karkas Mountains. This dome is octagon in shape, with an approximate diameter of 10.5 m, and to an elevation of 0.8 - 3 m. The dimension of each side is 3.34 m, and the diameter of its base or foundation is 1.80 m. This structure is constructed of brick and gypsum, and can be considered as a masterpiece of Iranian architecture.
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| | Chehel Dokhtar Minaret, Esfahan | 
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| Another interesting relic of the Saljuqi period is the Chehel Dokhtar Minaret in Esfahan. The same is adorned with brick work and 'kufi' inscriptions. This Minaret was constructed in the year 501 A.H. by 'Abol Fath Nahuji' during the reign of Soltan Mohammad Ebne Malek Shah Saljuqi. | | Goldasteh Minaret,Esfahan | This brick minaret is in the Dardasht neighborhood of Esfahan, and is a vestige of the Saljuqi period. The diameter of the same is 2.22 m. The girth of its central column being 54 cm. and its walls to the thickness of 21cm.
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| | Menar Jonban Minaret, Esfahan | 
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| This structure comprises of a mausoleum and two minarets, constructed on the tomb of 'Amoo Abdollah' a reputed personality of the 8th century A.H. The tombstone reveals the date 716 A.H., coinciding with that of the reign of 'Oljaito' Ilkhan the Mongol. It is extremely interesting to note that on shaking one minaret, not only does the other move, but that the structure itself sways. | | Qar Minaret, Esfahan | This round, cylindrically shaped brick minaret has been constructed on an octagonal base and its stone foundation comprises of sand, grit, limestone and ash. The foundation is 4.8 m in height, and the girth of the minaret at its base and top are 5.5 m. and 4.7 m. respectively. The thickness of its wall is 74 cm. and the total height of this structure is 21 m. The same was constructed in the year 555 A.H.
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| | Sareban Minaret, Esfahan | The same is a remnant of the 6th century A.H., and is situated to the north of the 'Joobareh' neighbourhood, which is a part of the Hebrew locality of Esfahan. The architecture of this 54 m tall minaret is of the Saljuqi era, and the same is adorned with brick and tile work.
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| | Zayar Minaret, Esfahan | The same is located in the Zayar village, east of the city of Esfahan. It is beautifully adorned with brickwork coupled with turquoise glazed tiles lining the fringes and the panels of the minaret. It is a relic of the Saljuqi era in the 6th century A.H. There is a strong possibility that it takes the name of Zayar from the time of the rule of Mardavij Zayari, who ruled in the early 4th century in Esfahan.
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| | Other Minarets, Esfahan | These are named as, the Rahrovan Minaret, Darolziyafeh Minaret, the minaret and dome of the Sha'ya Mosque, the minaret and domes of the Shah Mosque and the Dardasht and Bakht Aqa Minarets in Esfahan.
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:: Old and Historical Houses . | | Borujerdiha House, Kashan |  | The said premise is located in Kashan and was constructed during the years 1292-1310 A.H. by 'Haj Seyed Jaffar Natanzi' a merchant who conducted business in Borujerd and Kashan as well. He constructed this house in order to evade religious levies. The entrance to the premises is from an octagonal vestibule and an area utilized by pageboys adorned with a number of multilateral crescents and skylights in the ceiling.Then a long corridor leads to the northern facade of the | building.Near the entrance is a five-door chamber with intricate plasterwork. This opens out on a large and roof less porch, capturing the warmth of the sun, and transferring the same to the small symmetrical chambers on either side of this porch. In the northeastern portion of the structure are the kitchen quarters, arranged with shelves, and a special area to provide space for china and other utilities. Whereas in the western and eastern sections are chambers and covered porches. Opposite which is a courtyard and a stairway connecting the main premises to the basement. The basement covers a vast area and is tastefully arranged with wide wall cupboards with carved and lattice worked wooden doors. On either side of the building is the main or entrance staircase leading to the southern part of the structure. Here there is a large porch with a high ceiling giving way to an entertainment hall. Behind which, on a lower level is an octagonal area with a pool or the 'hauz khaneh'. The same has a domed shaped roof and beautiful skylights. Here the ceiling is vaulted and worked with tiles in harmonious colors. On the walls, portraits of the Qajar sovereigns can be noted, with their guards in formal European apparel. This building is also equipped with cellars that are cool and pleasant for use in the heat of summer. Materials used in the construction of this structure are, stone, brick, sun baked bricks and a composition of clay, straw and mortar.
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| | Other Old Houses, Esfahan | Other ancient houses are the followings: Akhavan Kharrazi, Pirnia, Jamal Qodassieh, Sheikh-ol-Islam and Haj Mohammad Taqi Lavaf in Esfahan. Habibi and Sowt-ol-Molk in Khansar. Sarifian, Haj Seyed Aqa, Hakim Bashi, Haj Saleh, Lajeverdi, Naraqi, Tabatabaiha, Ameriha and many such ancient houses in Kashan, are archaic premises located in Esfahan Province.
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:: Old Schools. | | Aqa Bozorg School, Kashan, Esfahan | This ancient structure has four porches and a beautiful dome with two tile worked minarets. Its courtyard and chambers that are on a lower level display an attractive aspect. Below these chambers are is the pool and nocturnal area made use of in summer. The dome is built on an octagonal platform and is doubly covered. The lower covering bears the weight of the ceiling, conducting it to the pillars, and the other is the outer covering which aids in making the dome look larger. Skylights have been affixed to the dome, along with religious versus around the dome have provided a harmonious connection between the different sections of the structure.
The ceilings of the western and winter nocturnal areas are of plaster, which have been designed on simple lines besides which is the library. The porches display intricate tile work, indicating the traditional art and culture of this land and the tombs of several trustees can be noted in the western porch. This structure was constructed in the year 1268 A.H.
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| | Chahar Baq (Soltani) School, Esfahan | This school was constructed for theological studies, late in the reign of Shah Soltan Hossain Safavid in the years 1116-1126 A.H. The artistic work on its dome is of tiles and the majestic entrance door is a matchless work of art, adorned with gold and silver.
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| | Molla Abdollah School, Esfahan | The same is located in the bazaar of Esfahan, and was a premise for prayer and theological studies by reputed clergies, named as, 'Molla Abdollah Shooshtari', during the reign of Shah Abbas I.
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| | Other Old Schools, Esfahan | These are the following: Baba Qasem, Jaddeh, Mirza Hossain, Kaseh Garan, Nimavard, Jalaliyeh, Shams Abad and the Bozorg Sadr School in Esfahan. The Alavi and Khansar Schools are other ancient schools of the province.
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:: Old Bazaars. | | Aminodolleh Arcade, Kashan | This three storeyed building with its grand entrance is an affect of 'Farrokh Khan Qaffari-e-Kashi', (known as Aminodolleh) who completed this structure in the year 1285 A.H.
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| | Esfahan Bazaar, Esfahan | This bazaar is a relic of the Safavid era and prolongs from the Qasariyeh facade to the Jame' Mosque. This bazaar is also known as the 'Bazaar-e-Nezamiyeh' or 'Nezam-ol-Molk'.
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| | Kashan Bazaar, Kashan | One of the important and attractive structures of Kashan is its ancient and large bazaar. Its primary structure dates to the 7th century A.H. The same is extremely beautiful and has splendid ceilings. Here there are innumerable caravansaries, arcades, water reservoirs etc. present.
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| | Malek-ol-Tojar Arcade, Esfahan | The same is a relic of the Qajar period and is connected to the bazaar of Kashan by way of large wooden doorways.
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| | Sabaq Arcade, Esfahan | The said is a relic of the Qajar era. It is in three floors and has two courtyards.
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| | Sharifkhaneh or Gomrok Arcade, Esfahan | 'Aqa Sharif Fadayi' constructed this three storied structure in the late Qajar period. Its interesting aspects are the vaulted tile work adorning the chambers and its beautiful paintings depicting hunting scenes.
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:: Old Public Baths and Water Reservoirs. | | Ardahal Aggregate Bath, Kashan | The same is located in the west of Kashan and is a relic from the Safavid era. Here the water system, adornments, the hot bath, cornices and tile work are worth noting.
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| | Fin Garden Bath, Kashan | In this aggregate a small and a large bath are present. The ceilings adorned with paintings and fine marble columns are artistic affects here. The smaller bath has gained historical fame due to the assassination of Amir Kabir in this place.
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| | Haj Sabbaq Water Reservoir, Kashan | This beautiful structure is located amidst the Bazaar of Kashan, and can be accounted for as one of the fine examples in respect to architecture, adornments, capacity of water and the general plan. Its semi-arched roofs, walls and facade are worth observation.
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| | Other Old Public Baths and Water Reservoirs, Esfahan | These are the following: Mir Seyed Ali, Masjed Vazir, Miyanchal, Abdol Razaq Khan Kashi, Gozarnou and Habib Ebne Moosa in Kashan. The water reservoirs of Haj Seyed Sadiq, Haj Seyed Qasem, Haj Seyed Morteza, Masjed Khaki, Dasht, Haj Mir Rahim, Meydan, and others in Naein. The water reservoir of the Shahidan locality in Herand is the ancient water reservoirs of this province.
These are named as, the Abdol Razaq Khan baths, Bazar, Molla Qobt, Mir Emad, Taher, Mansur, Panjeh Shah and Aqa baths in Kashan. Soltan Mir Ahmad, Rahnan, Gozarnou, Shah, Khan, Shah Ali, Sheikh Aba'ie, Shoori, and Saro Taqy baths in Esfahan. Afooshteh bath in Natanz and the Kaloon bath in Naein are ancient baths in Esfahan Province.
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:: Historical Caves. | | Niyasar Cave, Kashan | The said cave dates to approximately 2000 years ago and nestles in the limestone hills overlooking the Niyasar Village of Kashan. This cave has been dug out with the help of primitive implements and resembles a meandering stony tunnel in the breast of the Karkas Mountains. The same comprises of long and narrow passages, several chambers and wells. It is well worth mentioning that appropriate gear is required to gain access to this vicinity.
The Niyasar Cave is in three floors, and has a number of wells. Its passages and chambers cover approximately 500 square meters. The underground tunnels or passages are less than one square meter in area, and in some locations measure 100 x 70 sq. cm. Vertically 45 wells are connected to each other at an average depth of 118 m. This cave has four entrances and is of two separate sections. The central sector comprises of seven chambers in variable heights and very skillfully carved out.
The same is connected to the floor beneath by the wells and halls. The other portion is a lengthy passage with a gradual incline and is connected to other wells, this ends in a beautiful hall. At the extreme end of this sector is a large area with several dug out chambers. The Niyasar Cave has 20 chambers, the largest of all being 28.6 sq. m. and the smallest 1.8 sq. m.
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| | Qahraman Cave, Khomeini Shahr | This cave is located in the western mountains of the Cheshmeh-e-Lar in Khomeini Shahr. Within it is a chamber of sculptured stone, with an area of 3 x 3 sq. m.
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| | Other Caves, Esfahan | The limestone cave of Kalah Rood and the beautiful cave of the Alvijeh Village; Shah Shekar Cave located at a distance of 30 km. on the Shahreza - Semirom road; the Kukuloo Cave, 15 km. west of Esfahan; the Shah Qandab Cave southeast of Shahreza are worth mentioning in this province.
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:: Other Historical Monuments. | | Dovecotes, Esfahan | Dovecotes or such turrets are in plenty in the agricultural vicinities of Esfahan. These have been built with the purpose of collecting the excreta of these birds. The turrets are topped with domes with crevices so as to facilitate the access and exit of these birds, and guide them to their nests within this structure. These are distinct examples of Iranian architecture and have been built of brick and gypsum. At present there are over 100 such dovecotes in Esfahan Province.
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| | Naqsh-e-Jahan Square , Esfahan | 
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| This square is from the period of Shah Abbas I, and has a length of 500 m. from north to south, and its width being approximately 165 m. Surrounding this vicinity are the Abbasi Mosque and Sheikh Lotf Ol-lah Mosque, the Qaisarieh portal and the Ali Qapoo Edifice. During the reign of Shah Abbas I and his successors, this square was an area where festivities, polo, dramatics and military parades took place. | | Provincial Battle Fields, Esfahan | Around Esfahan are various such areas that are tourist attractions. These examples are the vicinities where the Iran-Arab combats took place, and that of Nader Shah and his battle against Ashraf Afqan. Besides the vicinity where Soltan Hossain fought against Mahmood Afqan.
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| | | | | | | ::Old Mosques.
::Mausoleums and Imamzadehs.
::Old Churches. |
::Old Mosques . | | Abbasi Jame' Mosque (Imam Mosque), Esfahan | %20.jpg) | The same is located to the south of the historical square of Esfahan, and was constructed under the orders of Shah Abbas I. Though its artistic works took place during the rule of his successor; and its epigraphs are the affects of a reputed calligrapher of the Safavid era. One of the interesting features of this mosque is the echo of sound in the center of the gigantic dome in the southern section. The height of which is 52 m.and the minarets therein 48 m.;whereas the minarets at | its portal in the Naqsh-e-Jahan Square reach an elevation of 42 m. The huge one-piece marble and other slabs of stone, besides the intricate tile work and adornments prove extremely spectacular.
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| | Ardestan Jame' Mosque, Ardestan | This ancient mosque has four porches and beautiful epigraphs worked with plaster. Those within the dome and the southern porch reveal the dates of 553 and 555 A.H. The founder of the said mosque was 'Abu Taher Hossain'.
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| | Esfahan Jame' (Jomeh) Mosque, Esfahan | The same is an aggregate of structures and works of art of the post-Islamic period in Iran. Interesting aspects of this mosque are:
 Small platforms to the right of the entrance corridor, along with circular pillars and beautiful plaster work. These are the remnants of the Deylamite period dating to the fourth century A.H.
The Khajeh Nezam-ol-Molk Dome, (minister during the reign of Malek Shah Saljuqi). The same was constructed in the years 465-485 A.H. The forty pillars in the western sector of this dome were added to the mosque during the reign of Shah Abbas I.
The forty pillars on the left of the entrance corridor, are relics from the Al-e-Mozaffar dynasty.
The southern porch of this mosque was constructed in the 6th century A.H., but its exterior and interior works of art are of the 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th centuries A.H. The two minarets of this porch were additions made during the rule of Hassan Bek Turkoman and 'Abu Nasr Hassan Abadar was responsible for repairs in this mosque.
The tile work adornments surrounding the courtyard are remnants of the Hassan Bek Turkoman period.
The eastern porch with its elegant plasterwork is of the Saljuqi period.
The Omar platform to the east of this porch is a relic of the Qobt-ud-Din Mahmood of the Al-e-Mozaffar dynasty.
The western porch of the mosque along with its tile work is a remnant of the 6th century A.H. This was repaired and re-decorated during the reign of Shah Soltan Hossain Safavid.
The northern porch of the mosque, reputedly known as the Dervish platform is of the 6th century and its inscriptions of gypsum are relics of the Shah Soleiman Safavid period. Besides which its pillars are worth observing.
Another aspect of this mosque is its dome, constructed in the year 481 A.H.
The central pool of the mosque was constructed during the reign of Shah Mohammad Khodabandeh Safavid.
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| | Mir Emad (Sq.) Mosque, Kashan | This ancient and historical mosque of Kashan is located to the south of the copper bazaar and opposite the main bazaar of the city. The founder of this mosque was 'Khajeh Amir Emad-ud-Din Shirvani'. The said was constructed during the reign of Soltan Jahan Shah Qaraqoyunloo in the years 841-874 A.H. The portal is worked in plaster and has water color paintings. These have been repaired time and again and the latest date of repairs was in the year 1243 A.H.
This mosque comprises of a portal, two gateways with historical inscriptions, vestibule, courtyards at split level, two platforms, several nocturnal areas, a brick dome, pulpit worked with vaulted tiles and a historical water reservoir. On the facade of the mosque is a historical decree by the ruler with eleven articles, carved on stone and affixed to the wall. This slab illustrates the social and political portrait of the times. A historical plaster inscription on the entrance can be said to be as one of the finest works from the religious and historical point of view in Iran.
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| | Saro Taqy Mosque, Esfahan | The mosque has been named after its founder, who was one of the ministers during the reign of Shah Abbas II. This mosque is located in the Hassan Abad vicinity of Esfahan. The exterior portion of the dome of this mosque has been worked on simple lines with brick. But the interior boasts of beautiful paintings.
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| | Sheikh Lotf Ol-lah Mosque,Esfahan | This mosque was constructed by a decree issued by Shah Abbas I and took a period of 18 years to be completed. The architect and mason of this structure was 'Ostad Mohammad Reza Esfahani'. The same is outstanding in respect of its tile work and other pieces of art. Sheikh Lotf Ol-lah was one of the important personalities in the Shiite sect, in what is known as Lebanon today. On the invitation of the Safavid monarch, Shah Abbas I, this famed personality came to reside in Esfahan and this mosque was constructed in honor of this great man.
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| | Zavareh Jame' Mosque, Zavareh | This mosque with its four porches is located in the city of Zavareh, at a distance of 12 km. from Ardestan. The same has been constructed by 'Abu Taher Hossain'.
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| | Other Mosques, Esfahan |  | Other mosques in Esfahan Province are as follows:
The mosque and minarets of the Barsian Village, Seen Mosque, Kaj and Dashti Mosque, Qotbiyeh Mosque, Zolfiqar, Dar-e-Joobareh, AzIran, Jarchi, Baq-e-Haji, Aqa Noor Mosque, Mesri, Hakim, Haji Manuchehr Mosque, Soleiman Bek, Sheikh Ali Khan, Ilchi, Ali Qoli Aqa, Maqsud Bek Mosque, Sarkhas, Ali Noosh Abad Mosque,Ali Mosque and its Minarets, Sabz-e-Maidan Jame' Mosque,Kaj Jame'Mosque, Shaaya Mosque | and its Minarets, Seyed, Varzaneh, Roknal Molk, Haft Shooyeh, Haji Mohammad Jaffar Abadehyi in the township of Esfahan. The Gar Mosque in the Gar Village of Esfahan. Vazir, Tabrizyha, Dar-e-Balan, Abiyaneh Jame' Mosque, Aqa Bozorg Mosque, Hajjat Gah-e-Abiyaneh, Miandeh Qahrood-e-Qamsar Mosque, Vazir, Kashan Jame' Mosque, Maidan-e-Kohneh Jame' Mosque, Baba Vali, Ayatollah Razavi Mosque in the township of Kashan. The Paminar Zavareh Mosque in the township of Zavareh. Dasht-e-Ramiyan, Imam Hassan Mosque and its minarets, Sefid Mosque in Ardestan, Kooche Mir Mosque in Natanz, Saravar Mosque in the township of Golpayegan, Khansar Jame' Mosque in the township of Khansar, Naein Jame' Mosque, Baba Abdollah Mosque in Naein, Meymeh Jame' Mosque in the townships of Barkhor and Meymeh, each of which are spectacular regarding architecture and adornments.
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:: Mausoleums and Imamzadehs. | | Abu Lolo Mausoleum, Kashan | This mausoleum consists of a courtyard, porch and conical dome decorated with turquoise colored tiles. The primary date of construction of this dome is unknown, but the date 777 A.H. can be observed on the tomb stone. The said tomb is located beyond the Fin gateway.
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| | Haroon Velayat Mausoleum, Esfahan | This mausoleum was built in the year 918 A.H. and is a relic of the reign of Shah Esmaeil Safavid. The same comprises of two tile worked portals, two courtyards, a sepulchre and dome. The vaulted tile work of the facade of the smaller courtyard is historically spectacular and one of the finest in Esfahan.
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| | Imamzadeh Abdollah, Natanz | This Imamzadeh is located on a hillock in Natanz. Its tiled covered dome was renovated in the year 1968, and its epigraph inscribed with religious verses.
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| | Imamzadeh Ahmad, Esfahan | This Imamzadeh comprises of a mausoleum and porches to the south and west. There is a black slab in one piece to the length of 3 m. fixed at the entrance and below the wooden latticed worked window. This black stone was apparently an idol in Sumanath formerly, and the Indians were ready to offer pearls equivalent to its weight. But Soltan Mahmood Qaznavi did not agree to this proposal. The tomb of the reputed poet of the 13th century 'Homami Shirazi' is located in the premises.
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| | Imamzadeh Darb Imam, Esfahan | The same is located in the ancient locality of Sonbolistan and near Dardasht. There are two tombs in this Imamzadeh, which consists of two domes, a facade, adorned with tiles. Besides three courtyards are in the northern, eastern and western sectors. The same is a relic from the Jahan Shah Qaragoyenloo period.
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| | Imamzadeh Esmaeil, Esfahan | The said Imamzadeh is located alongside the ancient Shaaya mosque. This structure comprises of an entrance, porch, courtyard and a beautiful large brick dome. It is a fine example of architecture and adornments of the Saljuqi era.
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| | Imamzadeh Habib-ebne Moosa, Kashan | The same is located in Kashan and is related to the offspring of Imam Mohammad Baqer (PBUH). The same was constructed in the second half of the 7th century A.H. The structure has a tiled dome with two elegant minarets.
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| | Imamzadeh Haroon-ebne Moosa, Kashan | The same comprises of a facade, large courtyard, chambers, porches and an ancient mausoleum dating to the 7th century A.H. Its dome is in the shape of a pyramid with twelve panels. The ceiling of the porch in front of the mausoleum, was adorned with vaulted arches decorated with paintings, mirror work and other paintings as late as the early last century. Within the mausoleum are three tombs, one belonging to martyrs, the other to Safiyeh Khatoon, the daughter of Malek Ashtar Nakhai, and the third to the founder of the Safiyeh School. In the northern entrance and ancient courtyard of this mausoleum is a Minaret of brick from the Saljuqi period.
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| | Imamzadeh Helal-ebne Ali, Kashan | This structure has a dome with two Minarets that are decorated with tiles. Its north and south facing courtyards are vast, and the porches high. Besides which there are various chambers, the pool or hauz khaneh, cellars and ancient wind trappers. The same was constructed in the Safavid era, in the year 953 A.H. The structure has undergone repairs repeatedly and is adorned with watercolor paintings. In the northern portal is a marble inscription with eleven stanzas. Ancient tombstones can also be noted in this vicinity.
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| | Imamzadeh Peer Davood, Kashan | This tomb is located in the vicinity of Qamsar in Kashan. It has a conical dome with 16 panels, covered with turquoise colored tiles. This structure dates to the Al-e-Booyeh era.
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| | Imamzadeh Shah Savaran, Kashan | This Imamzadeh is situated in the elevations of the Karkas Mountains, at a distance of 27 km. south of Kashan. The actual structure is square with a dome having twenty panels. The same was constructed in the year 887 A.H.
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| | Imamzadeh Shah Yalan, Kashan | This tomb is located in the goldsmith section of the bazaar of Kashan. It is the resting-place of Soleiman Ebne Moosa Ebne Jaffar (PBUH). The architecture of the same is related to the Saljuqi period and was built in the year 902 A.H.
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| | Imamzadeh Shahzadeh Easa Va Yahya, Kashan | The same is near the Abiyaneh Mosque and is a construction of the 6th century A.H. It consists of two facades, a courtyard, porch, a square sepulchre, chests dating to the year 1303 A.H. and a double covered dome with twelve panels, worked with turquoise colored tiles.
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| | Imamzadeh Shahzadeh Hadi, Kashan | The said is located between Aran and Bidgol, with an elevated dome and two Minarets adorned with tiles. Its courtyard and porch are also interesting aspects, built during the Safavid era. Shahzadeh Hadi is one of the offspring of Imam Zain-ol-Abedin.
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| | Imamzadeh Soltan Atabakhsh, Esfahan | This lies beyond the ancient gateway of Esfahan - Kashan, and is related to the offspring of Moosa Ebne Jaffar (PBUH). Its construction dates to the Al-e-Booyeh dynasty (320-447 A.H.). The large porch, tomb, ceiling and the section under the dome and the entrance to the vicinity of the tomb have been embossed with plasterwork.
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| | Imamzadeh Soltan Mahmood Alavi, Kashan | This structure is octagonal with a diameter of 7 m. and a height of 9 m. along with a platform on each side 2.51 m. in girth and to the height of 5 m. In this structure, gypsum inscriptions with the verses of the great poet Mohtasham Kashany can be noted. There is also another epigraph inscribed in white and 'Tholth' script on an azure blue back ground. This has recorded the name of Shah Tahmasb, the founder of the structure and the date 942 A.H. can also be noted. Its dome is pyramid shaped with twelve panels and reaches an elevation of 13 m.
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| | Imamzadeh Soltan Mir Ahmad, Kashan | The same is situated in Kashan and consists of a courtyard, porch and sepulchre. Its dome that is conical in shape has 12 panels and is decorated with vaulted tiles of the Safavid era. Its five pairs of doors have great value as a creative work of art.
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| |  | The said aggregate comprises of a mosque, school, water reservoir, Khanegah (or a type of monastery), and dome. But today only the two symmetrical brick domes of the mausoleum and the Khanegah remain. There are two tombs here, covered with beautiful tiles and enclosed in a latticed worked wooden chest. The structure is square in shape with a low-lying dome. A large porch connects these two structures to one another. Amidst the brick laid ceiling of this mausoleum | piece of art worked in tiles and is from the Mongol era. The eastern dome, which is that of the Khanegah, is right over the tomb of Molla Mohammad Hassan Qotb Natanzi.
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| | Mashhad Ardehal Mausoleum, Kashan | This mausoleum bears historical and religious value and was constructed in the Saljuqi era. The same belongs to Soltan Ali Ebne Imam Mohammad Baqer (PBUH). This aggregate consists of the mausoleum, sepulchre, dome, minarets and three courtyards. The southern courtyard (Safa) has several chambers and small porches. Whereas, the others are known as the Qomi and Sardari courtyards. Within the mausoleum and the Safa porch are plaster epigraphs in the 'nastaliq' script and beautiful paintings. Its golden colored dome is of the Saljuqi and Safavid periods, and is covered with beautifully colored tiles. To the south of the mausoleum is a historical bath a relic of the Safavid era.
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| | Shahzadeh Ebrahim-e-Fin Mausoleum, Kashan | The said is a relic of the Qajar era and was constructed by one of the inhabitants of Fin. The mausoleum comprises of a dome worked in turquoise colored tiles, beautiful Minarets and a porch with mirror work and paintings. The mausoleum along with its porch boasts of mirror and tile work.
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| | Zainabieh, Ardestan | This structure is alongside the west route of Ardestan, in the village of Uznan. This is the resting abode of one of the daughters of the 7t Imam. The structure is beautiful surrounded by a vast area in which is a relatively large pool. The tiled dome and the majestically tall minarets of this pilgrimage site is another focal point.
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| | Other Mausoleums and Imamzadehs, Esfahan | Other Imamzadehs in the province are named as, Shahzadeh Esmaeil (Abyaneh). Shahzadeh Abdollah, Shahzadeh Esmaeil and Shahzadeh Mohammad (Bidgol). Imamzadeh Qaeb (Kashan). Imamzadeh Karar, Baqer, Jaffar, Ibrahim, Shuri, Shah Reza (Esfahan). Imamzadeh Ali Abbas and Bamir (Natanz). Soltan Hossain (Mashhad-e-Ardahal). Taher, Mansur, Qasem Ebne Ali Al Naqi, Qasem Ebne Moosa Ebne Jaffar, Mir Neshaneh and Dar-e-Zanjir (Kashan). Seti Fatimeh Mausoleum in Esfahan, and Shah Seyed Ali Akbar Mausoleum (Shahreza).
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:: Old Churches. | | Beit-ol Lahm Church, Esfahan | The same is located in the Jolfa Square, and was built by an Armenian called Khajeh Petros Vali Janian. His portrait is on the wall of the church.
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| | Giyoork Church, Jolfa, Esfahan | <
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