Nowruz:
Nowruz, meaning "new day" in Persian, is the Iranian New Year and the beginning of spring. It is celebrated on the vernal equinox, usually falling on March 20th or 21st. Nowruz has been celebrated for over 3,000 years and is deeply rooted in Persian culture. The holiday represents a time of renewal, rebirth, and the triumph of light over darkness.
Traditions associated with Nowruz include the Haft-Seen table, which is set with seven symbolic items beginning with the Persian letter "س" (pronounced "seen"), such as Sabzeh (sprouts), Samanu (sweet pudding), and Senjed (dried oleaster fruit). Other customs include house cleaning (khaneh tekani), family gatherings, and visiting relatives and friends.
Iranian Culture:
Iranian culture is one of the oldest in the world, with a rich history spanning thousands of years. It has been shaped by various civilizations, including the Persian Empire, the Safavid dynasty, and Islamic influences.
Key aspects of Iranian culture include its art, literature, music, and cuisine. Persian poetry, with luminaries like Rumi, Hafez, and Ferdowsi, holds a special place in Iranian culture. Iranian music features instruments such as the santur, tar, and daf, and includes classical, folk, and contemporary genres.
Iranian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with dishes like kebabs, rice pilafs, and stews like ghormeh sabzi and fesenjan. Hospitality is highly valued in Iranian culture, and guests are often treated with great respect and generosity.
Iran's Tourist Attractions:
Iran boasts a wealth of tourist attractions, ranging from ancient historical sites to natural wonders. Some of the most notable include:
Persepolis: The ancient capital of the Persian Empire, featuring impressive ruins dating back over 2,500 years.
Isfahan: Known for its stunning Islamic architecture, including the Imam Square, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and the Imam Mosque.
Shiraz: Famous for its gardens, poetry, and historic sites such as the Pink Mosque (Nasir al-Mulk Mosque) and the tomb of Persian poet Hafez.
Yazd: A UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its wind towers, mud-brick architecture, and Zoroastrian heritage.
Tehran: The bustling capital city offers attractions such as the Golestan Palace, National Museum of Iran, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar.
Kashan: Known for its traditional houses like the Tabatabei and Borujerdi houses, as well as the Fin Garden and Agha Bozorg Mosque.
Isfahan: The picturesque city is famous for its ancient bridges, including the iconic Si-o-se-pol and Khaju bridges.
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