Architecture in Iran

Discover 16 places to experience unusual architecture in Iran.

Omar Khayyam Mausoleum

Neyshabur, Iran

Omar Khayyam Mausoleum

The beautifully designed resting place of Iran's national poet is a masterpiece of modern Persian architecture.

Alavian Dome

Alavian Dome

This mosque turned crypt is an amazing display of Persian-Islamic architecture.

Vank Cathedral exterior today.

Vank Cathedral

The cathedral stands in New Jufa, Isfahan's Armenian quarter that was established in 1606.

Khaju Bridge.

Khaju Bridge

This 17th-century structure is a beautiful testimony to traditional Persian architecture

The caravanserai.

Deir-e Gachin Caravanserai

One of the largest and oldest caravansaries in Persia.

The Pink Mosque.

Nasir al-Mulk Mosque

A spectacular rainbow of stained glass makes the "Pink Mosque" one of the most beautiful in Iran.

Kharanaq.

Kharānaq

The tower in this 1,000-year-old mud-brick village seems to vibrate for no apparent reason.

Windcatcher of Dolat Abad in Yazd.

Dolat Abad Windcatcher

Long before air conditioning, Persian architects found an ingenious way to cool off.

Bazaar of Kashan

Bazaar of Kashan

A historic trade hub teeming with gorgeous architecture, colorful goods, and vibrant designs.

The entrance to the underground city

Nushabad Underground City

A 1,500-year-old, 3-story subterranean city where ancient Persians took refuge in times of war.

Yakhchāl in Yazd, Iran

Yakhchāls

Ancient structures used to make and preserve ice in the deserts of Persia.

Masuleh

Masuleh

In this tiny Iranian town playing on the roof isn't just encouraged, it's the only place to go.

Tomb of Cyrus

Tomb of Cyrus

This ancient burial site is believed to be one of the first earthquake-protected structures in the world.

Eram Garden

Named after a legendary garden called Eram in southern Arabia, built by order of Shaddad, an Arab king who wanted to compete with Paradise.

Inside the tunnels of Kariz-e-Kish.

Kariz-e-Kish

Hydraulic systems in an ancient underground Iranian city.

The Tomb of Daniel at Susa, Iran. (Wikimedia Commons)

Tomb of Daniel

Burial site of a Jewish prophet revered in Iran.