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Isfahan, Iran
Isfahan's Naqsh-e Jahan Square (Imam Square) is the second-largest public square in the world, surrounded on all sides by masterpieces of Islamic architecture. The Imam Mosque's blue-tiled dome, the delicate Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the Ali Qapu Palace with its music room all face the square, connected by a two-kilometer covered bazaar. Walking through the bazaar is a journey through Iranian craftsmanship — miniature paintings, inlaid metalwork, hand-printed textiles, and carpet merchants fill centuries-old arcaded halls. The bridges of Isfahan span the Zayandeh River with extraordinary beauty — the Si-o-se-pol (33 Arches) and Khaju Bridge serve as public gathering places where locals picnic and sing under the arches at dusk. The Armenian quarter of Julfa preserves the Vank Cathedral with its stunning fusion of Islamic and Christian art. The Chehel Sotoun (Forty Columns) palace sits in a garden with a reflecting pool that doubles its 20 actual columns.
explore by interest
The main square and bazaar complex can fill an entire day of walking. Visit the mosques when they open in the morning for the best light through the tilework and fewer visitors.
March through May and September through November offer mild temperatures and clear skies. Spring brings Nowruz (Persian New Year) celebrations.