Esfahan

Main Townships: Esfahan, Golpayegan, Kashan, Natanz, Shahreza, etc. Main Attractions: Abbasi Jame' (Imam) Mosque, Abyaneh Village, Ali Qapoo Edifice, Borujerdiha House, Chahar Baq School, Chehel Sotune Palace, Esfahan Jame' Mosque, Hasht Behesht Palace, Imamzadeh Shahzadeh Ebrahim, Khajoo Bridge, Menar Jonban Menaret, Naqsh-e-Jahan Square, Sialk Hills, Sio Seh Pol Bridge and Zayandeh Rood River Banks, Sheikh Lotf Ol-Lah Mosque, Vank Church. etc.

Townships, Esfahan

Esfahan

This township which is in a north-south position, segregates the townships of the province into two eastern and western portions. To its north is the Markazi (Central) Province and to the south is in the neighborhood of the province of Fars. In its eastern direction, are the townships of Naein, Ardestan, Natanz and Kashan, and to the west are the townships of Golpayegan, Najaf Abad, Khomeini Shahr, Falavarjan and Shahreza. Its center is the city of Esfahan.

This city was the capital in the Parthian era, and in the Sassanide period came under the influence of the seven large influential families of Iran or the Espoharan. On the advent of Islam, till the early 4th century AH, it was under the jurisdiction of the Arabs, and was favored by Mansur one of the Abbasside Caliphs during his rule. In the year 319 AH, Mardavij Ziyari selected Esfahan as the capital and so too in the year 327 AH. when Rokneddin Deylami chose the same as the capital city during his rule. But in the year 443 AH. Togrol Saljuqi proved victorious here, and this was the cause of various erections such as mosques, buildings and palatial mansions in Esfahan. However, in the year 639 AH, Esfahan was invaded by the Mongols, and after their drawback the city flourished again. Only to witness severe damages during the assault of Teimoor the lame.

Shah Abbas Safavid was responsible for returning Esfahan to its former glory in the year 1000 AH. when this city was appointed as his capital. His successors were liable for the construction of palaces, and gardens of Sa'dat Abad and Farah Abad. After the decline of the Safavid dynasty and the fall of Esfahan by Mahmood Afqan, the city turned into shambles, thriving once more during the Afshar period. But during the Zandiyeh and Qajar reign, when the cities of Shiraz and Tehran were selected as capitals respectively, progress in the city of Esfahan came to a halt. This city saw further decline during the reign of Zilul Soltan, the offspring of Nasereddin Shah Qajar in the year 1276 AH.

However, during the Pahlavi reign, the territory and city of Esfahan witnessed industrial development, and in the last two decades the city of Esfahan has thrived to a great extent. In that, focal renovations and changes have taken place. Today, Esfahan is one of the vital cities in respect to tourism not only in Iran, but also in the world.

Ardestan

This township is within the limits of the province of Semnan in the north, to its south is Esfahan, whereas, in the east and west are Naein, Natanz and Kashan respectively. The erection of this township is associated to Saam the father of the athletic hero Rostam. The word Ardestan is a distorted version of the word 'Argdastan'. The native structural facet of this township and its famous and historical Jame' mosque, a remnant of the Saljuqi era can be said to be a place of interest.

Falavarjan

The township of Falavarjan is a small township to the west of the city of Esfahan. The ancient name of this city was 'Barze' which means the branch of a tree or cultivation. This name gradually changed to 'Varjan'. During the Safavid period due to the construction of a bridge on the Zayandeh Rood (river), Varjan was renamed Polavarjan and thence to Falavarjan. The most important historical structures of this township are in the Peykaran Mausoleum and the historical mosque of the village of Oshtorjan.

Faridan (Daran)

The township of Faridan is situated in the west of the province. To its north, are the townships of Khansar and Golpayegan. In its western direction is the province of Lurestan, to the south stands the province of Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiyari and to its east it is limited to the township of Najaf Abad. Daran was called 'Partikan' in the Achaemenian period and was one of the largest provinces of Aran. After the conquest of Alexander and the Grecian assault it gradually declined. During the Safavid era, a group of Armenians and Georgians were decamped to this region from the Caucasus, and thus resided here.

Fereidune Shahr

The above mentioned township is in the western most extent of Esfahan province. To the west, it has common borders with the province of Lurestan, to its south are the provinces of Khuzestan, Kohkiluyeh and Booyer Ahmad. This city dates back to thousands of years historically and was part of the ancient region of 'Partikan'. Large groups of Georgians were decamped to this area under the orders of Shah Abbas from the Caucasus. This township experiences an extremely pleasant climate and forms the summer-quarters for the Chahar Lang Bakhtiyari tribes. Needless to say, the countryside offers natural and picturesque beauty.

Golpayegan

This township is located in the northwest of the province. In the north is the Markazi (Central) Province, whereas in the west lies the province of Lurestan. To the south are the townships of Khansar, Faridan and Najaf Abad. In the eastern direction it lies within the limits of Najaf Abad and Esfahan. Golpayegan can be said to be yet another ancient city of the country, and was known as Golbadegan, Jorbadegan or Golabadegan. The Jame' Mosque of this city is one of the vital and historical structures here, related to the 6th century AH, a remnant of Mohammad Ebne Malek Shah Saljuqi. The same displays various epigraphs.

Kashan

Kashan is located in the north of the province and is to the south of Qom. To the west of this township is the Markazi (Central) Province, to the east lies the township of Ardestan and to the south it is within the limits of the townships of Natanz and Esfahan. Kashan can be accounted as one of the archaic cities of Iran. Archeological discoveries in the Siyalk Hillocks which lie 4 km west of Kashan reveal that this region was one of the primary centers of civilization in the pre-historic ages. The said hillock flourished during the Sassanide and Safavid periods, and was the capital during the reign of Shah Abbas Safavid II. Kashan suffered severe damage during the Saljuqi and Mongol eras.

This city and its respective villages were ruined due to earthquakes in the years 1192 AH. and 1260 AH. The city of Kashan has special features in regards architecture, historical and religious sites.

Khansar

Khansar is a small township with a pleasant climate in the northwest of Esfahan. To its north and east is Golpayegan and to the south and west it is within the limits of Faridan. Its historical past goes beyond a millennium, and from the Safavid era it was one of the largest scholarly and theological centers, such as the reputed and ancient Alavi School. It is famous for its honey and flower filled gardens in the country.

Khomeini Shahr (Sadeh)

The said township is located to the west of the township of Esfahan and to the east of Falavarjan. The foundation of this city is related to the Sassanide period, and Kohan Dej en route to Esfahan was one of the capitals of their times. The former name of this city was Sadeh.

Naein

The township of Naein with 35,000 sq.m. area, is located at 130 km. distance to the east of Esfahan and 320 km. to the south east of Tehran. It is neighboring the central plateau of Iran. The climate of this township in "Khor" and "Biyabanak" regions is hot and dry, where as in "Anarak" and south west regions, it experiences a moderate warm climate. This township has many famous villages and wells. For example "Khor" village is the birth place of "Yaqmayeh Jandaqi", the reputed poet of 13th century AH. (Qajar era).

This historical city has old antiquity and is a relic of pre-Islamic era. In geography books belonging to the 1st Islamic century, e.g., "Hodudol Alam" (372 AH.) there are some notes revealing the name with some characteristics and features of this city. The most important historical relic of Na'in is "Narenj" or "Narin" castle. The native architecture as well as the way of living of this desert community is very interesting and astonishing.

Najaf Abad

The said township is situated near Esfahan, to the north of which lies the townships of Golpayegan and Khansar and to the west is Faridan. In the south it is within the limits of Falavarjan and Lanjan. The foundation of this city is related to the 11th century AH, and it is believed that its construction began under the orders of Shah Abbas Safavid I, in the year 1022 AH. Its native architecture proves attractive, and moreover, this city is enhanced with verdant areas and archaic trees in comparison to other such areas.

Natanz

The township of Natanz is situated to the northwest of Esfahan. To its north is Kashan, and to the east is Ardestan. This city dates to the pre-Islamic era, and came under the influence of the general conditions prevailing in Esfahan and Kashan from the early Islamic period to the Mongol era. Important relics of this region are the Jame' Mosque, Khanegah (or a kind of monastery) and tomb of Sheikh Abdol Samad.

Semirom

The township of Semirom is situated in the southern most point of the territory of Esfahan. To the east of which is the province of Fars, in the south stands the province of Kohkiluyeh and Booyer Ahmad, from the west it is within the limits of the province of Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiyari and to its north, is in the neighborhood of Shahreza. In the past, this city was known as Samiran, which means a cold area. This city engulfs waterfalls and springs and is one of the reputed recreational spots and so to speak, pleasant areas to be taken advantage of in summer. The township of Semirom is situated in the southern most point of the territory of Esfahan. To the east of which is the province of Fars, in the south stands the province of Kohkiluyeh and Booyer Ahmad, from the west it is within the limits of the province of Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiyari and to its north, is in the neighborhood of Shahreza. In the past, this city was known as Samiran, which means a cold area. This city engulfs waterfalls and springs and is one of the reputed recreational spots and so to speak, pleasant areas to be taken advantage of in summer.

Shahreza (Qomsheh)

This township is located in the southwest of the province, to the north of which are Esfahan and Lanjan and to the west is within the limits of the province of Chahar Mahal and Bakhtiyari. To its south is the township of Semirom and in the eastern direction is the township of Esfahan. This ancient city was primarily known as Qomsheh, but due to the presence of the tomb of Imamzadeh Shahreza (AS) it came to be called by the latter. One of the noted and historical sites dating to the Saljuqi era, is the nocturnal area of the Jame' Mosque of this city. Qomsheh means a hunting ground or an area rich in water and with many such subterranean canals.

Palaces and Edifices, Esfahan

Ali Qapoo Edifice, Esfahan

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

Ashraf Pavillion, Esfahan

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.

Chehel Sotune Palace, Esfahan

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.

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 AH. 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 AH. 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.

Hasht Behesht Palace, Esfahan

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.

Old Mosques, Esfahan

Abbasi Jame' Mosque (Imam Mosque), Esfahan

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.

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 AH. The founder of the said mosque was 'Abu Taher Hossain'.

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 AH.
• The Khajeh Nezam-ol-Molk Dome, (minister during the reign of Malek Shah Saljuqi). The same was constructed in the years 465-485 AH. 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 AH, but its exterior and interior works of art are of the 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th centuries AH. 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 AH. 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 AH.
• The central pool of the mosque was constructed during the reign of Shah Mohammad Khodabandeh Safavid.

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 AH. 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 AH.

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.

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.

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.

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'.

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.

Historical Bridges and Caravansaries, Esfahan

Khajoo (Shahi) Bridge, Esfahan

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 are interesting aspects of this constructions. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Sassanide period.

Sio Seh Pol (Allah Verdy Khan) Bridge, Esfahan

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 AH. 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.

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.

Minarets and Domes, Esfahan

Ali Mosque Minaret, Esfahan

This minaret is situated in the Joobareh vicinity and is a vestige of the 8th century AH, 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.

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.

Chehel Dokhtar Minaret, Esfahan

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 AH. 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.

Menar Jonban Minaret, Esfahan

This structure comprises of a mausoleum and two minarets, constructed on the tomb of 'Amoo Abdollah' a reputed personality of the 8th century AH. The tombstone reveals the date 716 AH., 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 AH.

Sareban Minaret, Esfahan

The same is a remnant of the 6th century AH, 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.

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 AH. 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.

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.