Italian Paper Calls Isfahan and Shiraz Symbols of Beauty

December 26, 2002 - 0:0
TEHRAN -- Italian newspaper of La Stampa called Isfahan and Shiraz two cities of history, flower, art and beauty.

Marco Moretti about his trip to Iran as a journalist reported that Isfahan as an Islamic architectural masterpiece is truly "Half a World" as the Iranian say. Because of geographical position it used to be a significant city and a symbol of renaissance and rebirth after the invasion of Moguls.

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, one of the biggest squares in the world, used to be a sport arena for many years. Sheikh Lotfollah and Imam mosques are most likely the most beautiful mosques in the world.

Decorated by beautiful calligraphy, captivating architecture, as well as millions of multicolored ceramics, these are the best places to visit.

He described traditional teahouses in Iran as the "magic of East world". About Isfahan bazaars he said, "Isfahan has been carpet mecca for many years. With its smell of pistachios, carpets and gold, the Grand Bazaar is one of the most exquisite and memorable experiences to be had. During the day you can walk in the bazaar, sit down with merchants and drink tea or bargain over cheap prices."

Some of the photos included with the report noted that Flower of 1001 Nights by Italian director Pier Paolo Pasolini in 1974 borrowed many scenery from Isfahan. It is a fact that many Italian artists were inspired by the deserts and Iranian art and architecture.

"With 200 mosques, 28 religious schools, 13 churches, and a Jewish synagogue, Isfahan is indeed the place to go," the report continued.

Moretti called Shiraz the city of red rose, Sufis, poetry and poets, as well as another symbol of cultural and architectural beauty and elegance. He said that Shiraz has to be the first journey to take to visit Persepolis. It was the ceremonial capital of Dariush I, and his successors. Shiraz is also home to Vakil Mosque. Each grand hall in the mosque has 30 columns.

"Hafez mausoleum is the true identity of Shiraz.

Many Iranians prefer to visit the place before doing anything else," the report concluded.