Shiraz; An Ideal Tourist Attraction

Many of the historical attractions of Shiraz are several thousand years old. The gardens of this city are also among the most beautiful gardens in Iran, and some of them have been inscribed on the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage. In terms of entertainment, Shiraz is equipped with the best and most up-to-date facilities. Due to the existence of the Shah Cheragh Shrine, Shiraz is also considered one of the religious attractions of Iran.

Geography of Shiraz

Being the capital of Fars province, Shiraz is considered one of the most important metropolises of Iran. This city is located at an altitude of 1543 meters above sea level and is surrounded by mountains. This position has made Shiraz have attractive natural attractions. A seasonal river, too, passes through Shiraz.

The average annual temperature of Shiraz is 18 degrees Celsius and the average annual precipitation is 337 mm. Shiraz is 930 km away from Tehran and it is possible to travel to it by land, air, and rail.

Population and Economy

Shiraz has a population of nearly two million people and is among the six most populous cities in Iran. Cement, chemical fertilizer, sugar, wood, textile, and petroleum products are among the most important industrial products of this city. Shiraz is known as one of the main centers for the production of electronic products in Iran.

History

The name Shiraz has been found in inscriptions dating back to 2000 BC, but according to experts, this city dates back to 7000 years ago. During the Achaemenid era (550 to 330 BC), Shiraz was on the travel route from Susa to Persepolis and Pasargad and was, therefore, of great geographical importance. This importance was preserved in the following historical eras and several dynasties made it their capital. During the Mongol attack on Iran (1219 AD), Shiraz remained. This city has also greatly contributed to Iranian culture and literature by producing great poets such as Hafez and Sa’di.

After many ups and downs and being neglected for some time, this city began to once again flourish after being made the capital of Iran by Karim Khan Zand in 1759 AD.

Historical Attractions of Shiraz

The tombs of Hafez and Sa’di, two great Persian-speaking poets, Vakil Bazaar, Vakil Bathhouse, and Vakil Mosque are some of the important tourist attractions of Shiraz. Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, Jame’ Atiq Mosque, and Shah Cheragh Shrine are among the historical and religious attractions of this city.

The other tourist attractions of Shiraz include Karim Khan Citadel, Nazar Garden, Eram Garden, Jahannama Garden, Cheheltan Garden, Delgosha Garden, Narenjestan Garden, and Afifabad Garden. Some gardens in Shiraz, such as Nazar Garden and Afifabad Garden, are now used as museums.

A number of old mansions in Shiraz, such as Qavam House, Salehi House, Shapuri Mansion, Zinatul Milk House, and Moshir House as well as Agha Baba Khan School and the Qur’an Gate are also important historical attractions of Shiraz.

There are many historical sights on the outskirts of Shiraz, the most important of which are Persepolis, Naqsh Rajab, Ardeshir Palace, Bishapur Ancient City, Shapur Cave, Tang-e Chogan reliefs, and Naqsh-e Rostam, each of which reflects upon the history of thousands of years and displays surprising and amazing details.

Natural Attractions

The geography of Shiraz has made it possible to visit many natural attractions. Tang-e Dom-e Asb Waterfall, Kuhmareh Sorkhi Waterfall, Baram Delak, Bemo National Park, Shiraz Bird Garden, Pir-e Bonab Spring, Dasht-e Arjan Lake, Maharloo Lake, and Qalat Village are some of the interesting places of Shiraz to visit and enjoy the nature.

The name Shiraz has been found in inscriptions dating back to 2000 BC, but according to experts, this city dates back to 7000 years ago.