Iran, or Persia, a country in West Asia is 17th largest country in the world and the cradle of the civilization.
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Iran is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations that stretches back to the Elamite kingdoms in the 4th millennium BC and it was unified by the Medes in the 7th century BC. It has 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it is a home for numerous ethnic groups and various languages. It's historic name is Persia and old Greeks called it Persis, the land of the Persians, but Persis was one of the provinces that is today known as Fars. And their language reflects this, it is called Persian or Fari, and it is a huge mistake to call it Arabic because it is more close to European languages.
How old Iran and its civilization is, is quite astonishing. Their Neanderthal artifacts from the Middle Paleolithic, and that's from 300,000 to 30,000 years ago, have been found in the Zagros region mainly, and evidence of human presence are dated to Lower Paleolithic that started 3.3 million years ago. Back then from the 10th to 7th millennium BC agricultural communities flourished, so there's no surprise that Iran is called the cradle of civilization from where many people travelled to other parts of the world.
That's all thanks to Iran's climate that goes from arid to subtropical, and its position among several great countries. The country has five regions with 31 provinces and most people live in its western part. The capital is Tehran, home of the world's largest shopping mall Iran Mall and 9 million citizens. Of course, this is a must if you go to Iran but mainly because it's the main city with all amenities concentrated in it. While in Tehran a Grand Bazaar is a must and it's special.
Tehran Bazaar is in fact several bazaars connected together and they make one great labyrinth which is most probably complicated even to locals but somehow they find their way out. Tajrish Bazaar is another traditional bazaar where you will find everything you want like on any decent bazaar. An interesting thing people don't expect is the Saint Sarkis Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic but being on the cross of the roads Iran is home to various religions although it is Islamic Republic. The walls above the altar and its two sides are covered with exquisite paintings showing Bible themes, true works of art.
As any other Islamic country Iran has its holy city and that's Mashhad, the second largest city in the country. The Holy Shrine of Imam Reza is the place where millions of pilgrims come every year and not just from Iran but also from other countries. The city is also home town of Iran's greatest artists, from poets to singers. Iranian poet Ferdowsi composed the Shahnameh, one of the world's largest poems, and the city is thus known among locals as the city of Ferdowsi. Among other amenities, Goharshad Mosque is a must, this is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. It has the spiritual aspects but it is also a great example of architecture.
And of course there's Persepolis. Built by Darius with 2500 years of history, it has nine palaces and 3000 reliefs. The remains of all the monuments are authentic and in this UN Heritage Site you can really step back in history and see the early and glorious beginning of civilizations. Some 60 km from Persepolis there is Shiraz, another famous city. The capital of Fars Province established in 2000 BC is the home of Shiraz wine, one of the best wines in the world. Another contribution of Iran to the world.
When you think of Iran beaches are neither the first nor the second though. But the country has 2,400 km of coastline and Ladies’ Beach on Kish Island is special. As the name says it's a beach for women, and not all beaches are, and it is known as local Hawaii. Clear water and coral reefs are beautiful but be aware that you can't take photos there, people like privacy there. Marjan Beach on the same island is the place where you will rent a boat or surf and enjoy a more active vacation if you want.
And food in Iran is something special indeed. Doogh is a great drink made of yogurt, cold water, herbs, and salt. Very refreshing. Yogurt is used to make kashk, a delicacy of dry and fermented yogurt, which tastes like a kind of local cheese. Morasa polo is a spectacular meal: rice, butter, olive oil, pistachios, carrots, onions, sugar, and raisins and all that made in a special way, each ingredient is fried separately and caramelized with sugar. Magnificient. For a dessert take Ranginak from Shiraz, a traditional dessert from what and dates. Enriched with cinnamon and cardamom it is a perfect way to conclude your trip to Iran. ■
