Dargah Bibi Shehar Bano (SA)
After spending 4 nights in Tehran, the capital of Iran, we found it a vibrant metropolis seamlessly blended with modernity and rich historical heritage. Boasting impressive landmarks such as the Museum of Islamic Revolution of Iran, Golestan Palace and the Azadi Tower, Tehran offers a fascinating glimpse into Iran’s past and present. The bustling streets are lined with traditional bazaars where locals and visitors can indulge in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Iranian culture which we explored in four days of various visits with the courtesy of Foreign Office of Iran at Tehran. I will share with you the details later.
We had taken our breakfast and then moved forward to Isfahan. We all requested Ali Fatime our Protocol Officer that before leaving Tehran we wish to visit Dargah Bibi Shehar Bano (S.A) and the Imam Khomeini’s (RA) tomb. He kindly entertained our request and took us to the Roza of Bibi Shehar Bano which is a significant historical site located in the mountainous area of Tehran. It is believed to be the burial place of Bibi Shehar Bano, the mother of Imam Ali Ibne Hussain (A.S), the fourth Imam of the Shia Muslims. The tomb holds religious and cultural importance for Shia Muslims, who visit the site to pay their respects and seek blessings. The architecture of the tomb reflects the rich Islamic heritage of Iran, featuring intricate tile work and beautiful calligraphy. The tranquil atmosphere surrounding the tomb provides visitors with a serene environment for reflection and prayer. The Roza of Bibi Shehar Bano stands as a testament to the religious and historical significance of Tehran and attracts both local devotees and tourists alike.
Tomb of Imam Khomeini
Our next wish thereafter before leaving Tehran was to visit the Tomb of Imam Khomeini, a revered mausoleum located in Tehran. It serves as the final resting place of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the leader of the Iranian Revolution in 1979. The grand mausoleum complex is a prominent landmark in Tehran and attracts numerous visitors each year, including Shia Muslims, political leaders, and tourists.
The architecture of the tomb’s complex is impressive, featuring a vast central dome, intricate tile work, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Inside the mausoleum, visitors can pay their respects to Imam Khomeini and learn about his influential role in shaping Iran’s history and politics. The Tomb of Imam Khomeini stands as a symbol of Iranian nationalism and the Islamic revolution. Due to shortage of time we paid our tributes and offer Fateha from the outside of the mausoleum and moved towards Isfahan.
Isfahan
Located in central Iran, Isfahan is a city renowned for its stunning architecture and exquisite Islamic art. At its heart lies Naqsh-e-Jahan, a vast square encompassing iconic structures like the Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and Ali Qapu Palace. These architectural marvels showcase the intricate tile work, calligraphy, and geometric designs that define Persian aesthetics. Exploring Isfahan’s picturesque bridges, such as Si-o-se Pol and Khaju Bridge, is a delightful experience that reveals the city’s charm.
Detail about the Naqsh-e-Jahan, Isfahan and various other attractions will be shared later.
Naqsh-e-Jahan
After we checked-in the the Hotel of Isfahan for next two nights of our 3-member journalists’ delegation on Thursday we visited Naqsh-e-Jahan the beautiful and the historical place of Isfahan. It is one of the largest squares in the world and a masterpiece of Persian-Islamic architecture. The square was built during the Safavid dynasty in the 17th century and is surrounded by magnificent structures, including the Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and the Qeysarieh Portal. These architectural marvels showcase intricate tile work, calligraphy, and exquisite Persian craftsmanship. The square has served as a vibrant center of social, cultural, and political activities throughout the history and continues to be a bustling hub for locals and tourists. Naqsh-e-Jahan is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Iran and experience its grandeur.
