TEHRAN – Isfahan province has registered over four million visits to its cultural sites such as museums and historical structures in 17 days starting before the Iranian New Year.

“According to statistics compiled by Isfahan province’s travel headquarters, 4,602,607 travelers paid visits to museums and historical sites in Isfahan province from Esfand 24 (Mar. 14) to Farvardin (Mar. 30),” the provincial tourism chief said.

Moreover, the total of overnight stays in 28 counties of the province reached 1,607,616 during the period, Hamidreza Mohaqqeqian said.

The official added that 990,823 tourists stayed in Isfahan city at the time.

Isfahan, once a bustling crossroads of international trade and diplomacy in Iran, has evolved into one of the country’s premier tourist destinations, drawing visitors from far and wide. Renowned for its wealth of architectural marvels, including unparalleled Islamic edifices, bustling bazaars, enriching museums, picturesque Persian gardens, and charming tree-lined boulevards, Isfahan offers a tapestry of experiences for the discerning traveler.

Situated along the banks of the Zayandeh-Rood, Isfahan, the provincial capital, boasts not only a plethora of historic bridges but also owes much of its allure to the life-giving river, which has endowed the city with an innate beauty and fertility. Dubbed Nesf-e-Jahan, or “Half the World,” Isfahan’s grandeur in its prime rivaled that of cities twice its size, boasting a population nearing one million.

The iconic blue tiles adorning Isfahan’s Islamic structures and its stately bridges stand in stark contrast to the arid expanse of the surrounding Iranian countryside. At the heart of the city lies the expansive Imam Square, also known as Naghsh-e Jahan Square, spanning an impressive 500 meters by 160 meters. Dating back to the early 17th century, this UNESCO-recognized square is adorned with Isfahan’s most captivating landmarks, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural splendor.

Beyond its cultural treasures, Isfahan plays host to a thriving industrial sector, boasting steel factories and even a nuclear facility on its outskirts. Moreover, the city has emerged as a leading hub for medical tourism, boasting a cutting-edge healthcare complex that attracts patients from around the globe, solidifying its status as a premier destination in the realm of medical tourism.

AM