Hasht Behesht: a jewel of Safavid architecture in Isfahan

TEHRAN – Standing tall in the heart of Isfahan, Hasht Behesht (“Eight Paradises”) is a must-see historic mansion and a captivating reminder of Iran’s Safavid era.

Climate change impact on Iran’s cultural heritage debated by task force

TEHRAN – On Monday, the first meeting of the Climate Change and Cultural Heritage Task Force was convened in Tehran.

By Afshin Majlesi

From salt domes to sand sculptures: Iran’s geological gems await

TEHRAN – Imagine exploring a land where geological wonders stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the most renowned natural sites in the world.

By Afshin Majlesi

Affordable adventures await in these six must-visit cities

TEHRAN - With a history stretching back over 6,000 years, Iran is one of the world’s most appealing destinations for budget-conscious travelers.

Naqsh-e Jahan: a journey through Isfahan’s architectural marvel

TEHRAN – Located in the heart of Isfahan, the ancient city that graces the crossroads of Iran’s north-south and east-west routes, Naqsh-e Jahan is jewel of the Safavid era (1501-1736).

Tehran street leads visitors to unique blend of religious harmony

TEHRAN - Si-e Tir, a cobblestone one-way street stretching northward, is renowned as a unique reflection of religious diversity in the bustling heart of the Iranian capital.

By M.A. Saki

Belarus is a hidden gem

MINSK – On July 7, as the sun was setting, a tall and thin young man was waiting for me from Iran and another journalist from Kazakhstan at Minsk airport. He said I welcome you to Belarus on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Explore Sepahsalar mosque-school in downtown Tehran

TEHRAN – Located in the bustling heart of Tehran, the Sepahsalar mosque-school stands as a magnificent testament to Persian architectural ingenuity and cultural heritage.

By Afshin Majlesi

Wonders of Uzbekistan: a ten-day travel experience

From my childhood, the names of Samarkand and Bukhara have been etched into my memory; whether in poems, school classes, grandmother’s tales, or stories in my books, those names always lingered in the back of my mind.

By Afshin Majlesi

From trade to tradition: a journey through iconic bazaars

TEHRAN – For tourists, Iranian bazaars offer a window into local culture, providing opportunities to witness authentic social interactions and procure unique Iranian souvenirs.

By Afshin Majlesi

Dry river, sinking city: urgent measures needed to save Isfahan’s heritage

Accompanied by a group of journalists, we recently embarked on a journey to explore the Zayandeh-Rud river, tracing its origins near Zard-Kuh, a sub-range in the central Zagros range in Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari province, all the way to the ancient city of Isfahan.

By Afshin Majlesi

Tranquility amidst history: Jameh Mosque welcomes travelers to Semnan

TEHRAN - In the heart of the ancient city of Semnan, where the whispers of the Silk Road still echo through time, lies a jewel of Islamic architecture, a testament to centuries of cultural exchange and spiritual devotion.

By Afshin Majlesi

Reviving heritage: Isfahan’s alleyway transformed from dust to magnificence

ISFAHAN - As the sun sets over Isfahan’s horizon, casting a golden hue upon the newly revived passageway, one cannot help but feel a sense of awe and gratitude for breathing new life into a forgotten slice of history at the heart of this timeless city.

Discover the wonders of Damghan: from caravanserais to mosques and forts

TEHRAN - Abundant with remnants of the past caravanserais, strongholds, brick towers, edifices, and places of worship, Damghan can hardly be overlooked by a cultural tourist.