Kashan

Kashan

Kashan is the first great oasis on the road from Qom to Kerman, which runs along the edge of the central Iranian deserts. The city is charming in part because of the contrast between vast expanses of dry desert and the greenery of a well-groomed oasis. Archaeological finds on the hills of Sialk Tepe, 4 km west of Kashan, indicate that the area was one of the centers of civilization in prehistoric times. The finds date back to the Elamite period of Iranian history. The ziggurat of Sialka is 7,000 years old. With an abundance of historical monuments and architecture, Kashan is a classic destination for tourists who have already experienced world famous historical cities such as Shiraz and Isfahan.

This charming town takes its name from “kashi” ceramics, of which it was an important production centre. It is still renowned for its artisanship, especially with regard to the silk carpets, which ensured its prosperity. Located between Tehran and Isfahan, Kashan will seduce you with its impeccably maintained peaceful gardens, its atmosphere that contrasts with the surrounding desert and the superb architecture of the splendid houses and its traditional hammams. You will also discover, 80 km south of Kashan, Abyaneh which is a village dominated by an ocher mountain, where the women, dressed in shimmering outfits, present a beautiful glimpse of traditional life.

The magnificent Agha Bozorg Mosque is a historic mosque in Kashan. The most beautiful Islamic complex in Kashan and one of the best of the mid-19th century. It was erected under the expertise of master Ustad Haj Saban-Ali at the end of the 18th century. It is remarkable for its design, and you will explore its two large iwans, one in front of the mosque and the other at the entrance.

Fin garden is a historic Persian garden. This is where King Nasereddin’s killer on assignment assassinated Amir Kabir, the Qajarid Chancellor. Completed in 1590, the Fin garden is the oldest existing in Iran. It was noticed by UNESCO in 2012. Spread over 2.3 hectares, you will discover basins, fountains and many seductive waterways. Combined with its environment of beautiful old cypress trees, it is one of the most beautiful gardens in Iran. It is also here that you will observe the Kashan National Museum to explore archaeological funds such as those from the Chogha zanbil site.

Kashan
Agha Bozorg Mosque
 
Kashan
view of oasis