TEHRAN – A special section dedicated to historical carriages and chariots was officially inaugurated at Iran's National Car Museum, which is located in western Tehran.

The unveiling ceremony was held on Sunday and attended by journalists and fans of historical vehicles, Mehr reported.

The new section promises visitors a journey back in time through the opulent history of carriages and chariots, the report said.

It showcases five historical carriages and chariots, some of which were used for ceremonial purposes while others were gifts of significance. Among the highlights is the carriage once belonging to Naser al-Din Shah Qajar (aka Nasereddin Shah), a poignant relic of a bygone era, steeped in the history of Iran. Another notable inclusion is a ceremonial carriage dating back to the Pahlavi era.

In addition, other sections featuring historical engines, and automobile license plates were inaugurated on Sunday.  

A testament to the rich heritage of automotive excellence, the National Car Museum of Iran houses a collection of unique and custom-made vehicles, which have long been icons in the history of the global automotive industry.

Among its highlights are some of the rarest and most prestigious automobiles ever produced, drawing enthusiasts and scholars alike to marvel at their beauty and significance.

One of the museum's prized possessions is a gold-plated limousine, an embodiment of luxury and opulence that captures the imagination of visitors from around the world. Adding to the allure is the presence of the world's only Panther-Laser car, a masterpiece of engineering and design that remains unparalleled in its uniqueness.

However, it is perhaps the historical significance of certain vehicles that truly sets the museum apart. Among these is the Silver Ghost Rolls-Royce, once the prized possession of Ahmad Shah, a notable figure in Iranian history who reigned from 1909 to 1925 during the Qajar era. This iconic car offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of royalty during a bygone era.

Another royal gem within the museum's collection is the royal carriage belonging to Nasereddin Shah of Qajar, a piece of living history that transports visitors back to the grandeur of a bygone era.

Spread across four main halls, the museum offers a comprehensive journey through automotive history. The first hall proudly displays the oldest vehicles in the collection, including the aforementioned Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost associated with Ahmad Shah Qajar. Hall No. 2 pays homage to American and Mercedes-Benz vehicles, while Hall No. 3 is dedicated to official and ceremonial cars, boasting an impressive selection of Rolls-Royces and Mercedes models.

Hall No. 4 is a haven for enthusiasts of sports and super sports cars, offering a thrilling experience for those with a penchant for speed and performance.

A standout feature of the museum is its ownership of the largest collection of Mercedes-Benz 600 in the world, with a staggering 21 units on display. This remarkable feat underscores the museum's commitment to preserving automotive heritage on a grand scale.

Speaking to the Tehran Times, a museum official highlighted the unique nature of the Mercedes-Benz 600, emphasizing that the museum houses all models ever produced by the German company. Additionally, the museum boasts a substantial collection of classic Rolls-Royces, with 21 of these prestigious vehicles held within its treasure trove.

With its unparalleled collection and dedication to preserving automotive history, the National Car Museum of Iran continues to captivate and inspire visitors, offering a captivating journey through time and innovation.

AM