Tabriz

Tabriz, the largest city in the northwest of Iran, holds historical significance as a former capital. With its picturesque green mountains and modern urban development, the city and its surroundings attract tourists from different countries. Its exceptional cultural heritage has left behind breathtaking architectural masterpieces which have been preserved for future generations to admire. Additionally, the region of Iranian Azerbaijan boasts some of the country’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.

Tabriz Grand Bazaar

Tabriz has long been a hub for cultural exchange, making it a vital commercial center on the Silk Road trade route. Tabriz Grand Bazaar, with its interconnected brick structures and enclosed passages, played a more significant role than commerce. Long before the 13th century, when Tabriz became the capital of the Safavid kingdom, the city and its bazaar prospered and gained fame. Although no longer the capital by the 16th century, Tabriz remained an important commercial hub until the 18th century due to the growing power of the Ottoman Empire. Today, the Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex embodies the rich history and traditions of Iranian commerce and culture and developed as a result of its connections to international trade routes.

Tabriz Grand Bazaar, registered in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is the world’s largest roofed bazaar. It is located in the bustling city of Tabriz. On the eastern side of the bazaar stands the glorious Ali Qapu Palace, and on the western side, you can marvel at the magnificent Jameh Mosque of Tabriz. The width of the bazaar spans 4 to 5 meters and its height is 5 to 6 meters. You can find a multitude of corridors, caravanserais, bazaars, Bazaarchehs, Timchehs, mosques, schools, baths, museums, and libraries.

On one side you can find amazing gold and jewelry, while on the other side, you can explore beautiful handicrafts. Amongst the beloved handicrafts of Tabriz is the renowned Tabriz leather, showcasing various styles and brands. Additionally, the Tabriz carpet stands out as a prominent artistic creation of the city, with Mozafarieh Timcheh offering a selection of authentic, hand-woven carpets. The Tabriz Historic Bazaar stands out for not only offering a wide range of goods for sale, but also for its historical, social, and architectural features. It remains the largest and most inclusive bazaar in Iran, continuing to serve as the primary trading hub in Tabriz.

Alishah Citadel

Arg of Tabriz, Arg-e Alishah, or Alishah Citadel which is over 700 years old, was once a prominent fortification wall and it can still be easily spotted from afar. Initially built as a mosque and burial site for Taj Al-Din Alishah Gilani, Ilkhanate minister. Throughout the years, this large structure had various purposes. It was used as an ammunition supply point during the Qajar dynasty. To protect it, a tall mud wall was constructed, the reason why it is now called Alishah Citadel or Arg-e Alishah. During the Safavid era, it served as an educational center. Unfortunately, during the Russian invasion of Tabriz in 1911, the wall of the citadel was blown up, leaving visible holes in its walls. Despite major damage from earthquakes and conflicts, the high wall is the only remaining section of the citadel that still stands today. This impressive structure is a fine representation of Iranian architecture, and its Azari style became popular in Azerbaijan after the rise of Islam. It has now become a distinctive style in Iranian architecture.

Azerbaijan Museum

Azerbaijan Museum is a prominent structure known for its extensive collection of valuable historical artifacts. Over 2,300 culturally significant objects, approximately 100 handwritten books, and 2,500 antique printed books are currently preserved in the museum. The museum draws 100,000 annual visitors to explore its treasures. It is divided into three galleries. The first one showcases ancient remnants, such as Rhytons, skeletons, and the Bism Allah-Stone, from the 5th millennium BC to the Sassanian dynasty (212-656 AD). The second one is divided into two sections: one dedicated to Islamic archeology and another focused on coins and seals. The third gallery showcases sculptures and artworks by a contemporary artist.

Mausoleum of Poets

Iranians have held poets in high regard, immortalizing their memory through the construction of shrines. Throughout the history of Iran, Tabriz has nurtured many revered poets, a significant number of whom resided in the Sorkhab neighborhood and desired to be laid to rest there. Maqbarat-o-Shoara or the Mausoleum of Poets now stands upon the former burial ground, serving as the resting place of nearly 400 Iranian poets and mystics, including esteemed figures like Shahryar and Khaqani. A visit to this monument offers a profound glimpse into the rich literary heritage of Iran and the legacies of its renowned poets.

Blue Mosque of Tabriz

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Kabud Mosque, is historically valuable. The Blue Mosque is a major attraction for tourists due to its intricate azure blue tiling, calligraphy, and patterns as well as its different architecture. The Blue Mosque was constructed in 1465 by Jahan Shah, and its architecture was highly esteemed. Originally, the mosque was a part of the Mozaffariyeh complex which also included a courtyard, a monastery, and a library. Unfortunately, after an earthquake in 1779 only some parts, a large part of the mosque was destroyed. Despite the significant damage to the structure, the Blue Mosque continues to captivate visitors with its distinctive and delightful allure.

Qajar Museum

The Qajar Museum of Tabriz (or House of Amir Nezam Garusi) is located in the Sheshghelan district of Tabriz. A truly splendid and historically significant structure, it has been transformed into a museum that exclusively showcases the legacy of the Qajar dynasty. The house has two courtyards, one public and a spacious courtyard on the southern side and a private courtyard on the northern side. The building is two-storied and stretches between the two courtyards. The southern courtyard features a large pool in the middle surrounded by flowers and a columned porch on the northern side. The northern courtyard is similar in design but does not have a porch.

Each storey of the house has a central hall with rooms on either side, connected to each other. The halls have large windows overlooking the courtyards. The second storey is decorated in a European style, while the lower has vaulted rooms and brick walls. There is also a columned pool (or Howz Khaneh) in its basement with an impressive brick ceiling. The house also serves as a museum showcasing items from the Qajar era. Coins, hand-woven artifacts, stones, dishes, mirrors, ironware, musical instruments, Persian Khatam, and marquetry are all put on display in the Qajar Museum.