Meidan Emam, Esfahan in Iran

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Isfahan Home Page

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1979
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 51,678°
Latitude: 32,657°

Summary

Built by Shah Abbas I the Great at the beginning of the 17th century, and bordered on all sides by monumental buildings linked by a series of two-storeyed arcades, the site is known for the Royal Mosque, the Mosque of Sheykh Lotfollah, the magnificent Portico of Qaysariyyeh and the 15th-century Timurid palace. They are an impressive testimony to the level of social and cultural life in Persia during the Safavid era.

Location on Map

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Meidan Emam, Esfahan: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Meidan Emam, also known as Naqsh-e Jahan Square, is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the city of Esfahan, Iran. This magnificent square is not only a symbol of the city but also a testament to the rich history and architectural brilliance of the Safavid dynasty.

History

Meidan Emam was built during the reign of Shah Abbas I in the early 17th century. It was designed to be the centerpiece of the new capital city, Esfahan, and served as a gathering place for various social, cultural, and commercial activities. The square was named Naqsh-e Jahan, meaning "Image of the World," to reflect its grandeur and significance.

The construction of Meidan Emam took several years and involved the collaboration of numerous architects, artists, and craftsmen. The square was meticulously planned and adorned with stunning buildings, including the Imam Mosque, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Ali Qapu Palace, and Qeysarieh Portal.

During the Safavid era, Meidan Emam became a hub of trade and commerce, attracting merchants from all over the world. The square was surrounded by bustling bazaars, where precious goods such as silk, carpets, and spices were traded. It also served as a venue for polo matches, ceremonies, and royal processions.

Current State

Today, Meidan Emam remains a vibrant and bustling square, attracting both locals and tourists alike. The square has retained its original layout and architectural integrity, making it a living testament to the grandeur of the Safavid era.

The Imam Mosque, located on the south side of the square, is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its intricate tilework, calligraphy, and towering minarets leave visitors in awe. The Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, situated on the eastern side, is renowned for its mesmerizing dome and delicate tilework, which changes color throughout the day.

The Ali Qapu Palace, located on the western side of the square, offers panoramic views of Meidan Emam from its elevated terrace. This magnificent palace once served as the residence of Shah Abbas I and was a venue for royal receptions and entertainment.

The Qeysarieh Portal, an imposing entrance to the square, leads to the bustling bazaars that still thrive today. Visitors can explore the vibrant marketplaces, where they can find traditional handicrafts, carpets, spices, and souvenirs.

Meidan Emam is not only a visual delight but also a cultural hub. The square hosts various events and festivals, showcasing traditional music, dance, and art. It serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists to relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in the rich heritage of Esfahan.

Address
Distance: 1,8 mi
Felezi Bridge, Motahari st
Isfahan
Iran

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

Visit of Esfahan - Isfahan - اصفهان - Ispahan (Iran / ایران )

Published: September 29, 2007
Length: 59:33 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: valpard

Isfahan ou Esfahan (en persan : اصفهان, Esfahān) est une ville d'Iran, capitale de la province d'Isfahan. Le nom de la ville est aussi rendu sous la graphie Ispahan. Elle est située...

Naqsh Jahan in Isfahan Iran 3D

Published: March 11, 2014
Length: 35:03 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Behnam Nazemi

Imam Square in Isfahan Iran 3D میدان امام شهر اصفهان.ایران Naqsh-e Jahan Square (Persian: میدان نقش جهان‎ Maidān-e Naqsh-e Jahān; trans: "Image of the...