Isfahan is a city in central Iran known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful architecture and handicrafts. It was once one of the greatest cities in the world, second only to Athens and Rome and bigger than London, Paris and Istanbul. Isfahan is Iran's third largest city after Tehran and Mashhad, with a population of about 2 million, most of whom speak Persian. A city rich in history and culture, Isfahan is home to many important Islamic buildings, including the Masjedh Shah, Masjedh Jamek, and the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Naqshe Jahan Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest urban squares in the world.
Isfahan is also known for its historic bridges such as the Siosepol Bridge and the Khaj Bridge. The Armenian Quarter Jolfa is a must-see in Isfahan. Isfahan has many palaces such as Ali Kap Palace and Chehel Sotoun Palace. Isfahan is also famous for handicrafts such as etching, parquet and cashmere. It is a living museum of traditional culture and many craftsmen work here. Isfahan is also known for its Persian Gardens, which include the Najvan Cultural and Recreational Complex. Isfahan is a city where heavy industries such as steel factories are concentrated.
If you plan to visit Isfahan, we recommend his 2-day itinerary that visits Naqshe Jahan Square, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Masjed Jamek, Siosepol and Khaju Bridge. Isfahan is a pedestrian-friendly city and few streets in Isfahan are without a large central pedestrian area planted with trees, fountains and flowers.
Isfahan Traditional Foods, Desserts and Snacks
Isfahan is a city with a rich food culture and there are many traditional dishes worth trying. Here are some must-try traditional Isfahan dishes:
Beryani or Biryani: a dish consisting of lamb, tail fat, lamb's lungs, onion, cinnamon, turmeric and other spices.
Gheymeh Rizeh: a dish made of meat and chickpea flour, dried mint , spicy onions and other spices.
Kaleh Joosh: a watery soup made with curd, onion, mint and other ingredients.
Halim Bademjan: a dish consisting of eggplant, lentils, meat and other ingredients.
Khoresht Mast: stew made with yoghurt, lamb and other ingredients.
Tas Kebab: a dish consisting of lamb, potatoes, carrots, onions, oil, salt and other spices, cooked with tomato paste and water.
Gusht Lubia: a dish consisting of lamb, white beans, rice, onions and spices.
Duough and Gooshfil: a dessert made with sugar, rose water, saffron, pistachios and almonds that is served together with yogurt.
These traditional dishes can be found in local restaurants and street food vendors in Isfahan. Don't forget to try them out when you visit Isfahan!
