About Iran

Mio Iran, the movie by Sebastian Linda,
a tourist from Germany about the experience of travelling to Iran

The land of unexpected wonders

Iran, the former great Persian Empire, is probably among the most misunderstood countries of our time. This is in itself a very good reason to come and experience a unique and unforgettable journey on its lands! Most visitors who experienced Iran agree that they lived experience beyond expectations! Because Iran is simply nothing as you can expect and moreover nothing like what Western media and politics depict. So, here is a bite of what Iran truly is!

In the footsteps of the Persian Empire

Iran is the land of great history, the cradle of one of the world's oldest civilizations and the homeland to the powerful dynasties of the glorious Persian Empire. Thus, visiting Iran is entering millions of years of history. This legacy remains alive on the World Heritage Sites of Persepolis, Golestan Palace, Bam citadel, and many other historical places all over the country. Indeed, Iran doesn't have fewer than 26 sites listed by UNESCO!

History is the cement of the Persian culture. Yet it's not only limited to the Sassanid or Achaemenid Empires. Nowadays' culture is deeply rooted in the traditions of Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest religions, later influenced by Islam and its mystic branch, Sufism, which has inspired many famous Persian poets, from Rumi to Hafez. It's this unique blend of origins that gives its taste to the Persian culture. A complex identity that can be well observed during the annual and local celebrations, from Nowruz, the Persian New Year, to Ashura, the commemoration of the death of Imam Hussein.

The friendliest people on earth

It's also this remarkable combination that has given Iranian people their main characteristics, among which there is an unrivalled sense of hospitality. No visitor has ever come to Iran without falling in love with these warm-hearted people, amazed by the way Iranians greet their visitors. Iran is a land where you can discover the true meaning of the word "hospitality". That’s probably one of the reasons why it is so safe for the visitors, as they are taken care of as the most cherished member of the family. Iranians are always so keen to help, start chatting, share tea or even invite you over for a homemade family dinner. There is no doubt that your many encounters will create the most striking and sweet memories of your trip, as they will show you the true face of Iran.

The beauty of Islamic architecture and beyond

Thinking about Iran immediately brings to mind the image of the masterpieces of Isfahan's blue-domed mosques, embellished with the most beautiful tile work knowledge, and whose golden minarets stand proudly at the horizon. Iran indeed presents some of the best examples of Islamic architecture in the world, but not only. Christian, Jewish, Zoroastrian, and Babylonian influences have left striking monuments as their heritage. The great empires of Persia have also granted their land with architectural treasures, from the grandeur of Persepolis to the refinement of Qajar houses.

A land of four seasons

Of course, the magic also lies in Iran's astonishing nature and landscapes. The fantastic sight of sand dunes spreading at the horizon is one of the most famous images associated with the country. It's true that it has many beautiful and vast deserts, from the flawless and unspoiled Maranjab to the otherworldly sand formations of the Dasht-e-Lut, the hottest spot on earth. However, Iran is so much more than a desert!

The Alborz mountain range and the Zagros Mountains are paradises for climbers, skiers, and snow lovers who dare defy the cold. In the western regions, green landscapes filled with breathtaking canyons, crystal-clear rivers, and waterfalls are waiting for visitors to enjoy a dive in their temperate waters. That's not it: from the humid Hyrcanian forests near the Caspian Sea to the mangroves of the Persian Gulf's island, Iran is a kaleidoscope of natural wonders, offering the best of each season. It's thus an amazing playground for explorers willing to experience outdoor activities, which go from canoeing to birdwatching, rafting, trekking, etc.

Ancestral traditions of the finest arts

Through centuries, nature and life have been muses for craftspeople who developed some of the best handicrafts in the world. Walking in Shiraz or Isfahan's Bazaars gives a hint of the diversity and grace of Persian arts, whose greatest ambassadors are the Persian carpets: they are recognized worldwide for their quality and the beauty of their designs. In Iran, carpets aren't just a piece of furniture, it's truly an art that is passed over generations. So are the ancestral techniques of woodcarving, glasswork, embroidery, marquetry and dozens of other traditional and colourful handicrafts. Without forgetting to mention the great poets, writers, and calligraphers, who turned the words into everlasting art.

The delights of Persian foods

It would be impossible to talk about Iran without mentioning its food. Once again, Persian cuisine is nothing like you can imagine. Iranian dishes are delicate, sophisticated, colourful and delightful. From roasted eggplants to pomegranate stew, saffron rice, and meat Kebab, the variety of its traditional dishes is endless, each region has its own specialities, cooked with unique seasonal and local ingredients. UNESCO has even given recognition to Rasht, the capital city of the Gilan Province near the Caspian Sea, for its exceptional traditional gastronomy, a combination of ancient recipes and techniques.

Iran is a land of contrasts and diversity; a modern country with a vibrant history; and a colourful combination of ethnicities with their traditions, cultures, and languages. Words can only fail to describe the wonders it has to offer to the curious and open-minded visitor. The only way is to experience this enchanting journey by yourself.