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Ali Qapu Palace (early 17th century onward)

The Ali Qapu Palace stands on the west side of the maidan (the great quadrangle at the center of Esfahan). Meaning 'Sublime Portal' or 'Lofty Gate', it served as the entryway to the vast complex of royal gardens stretching north-south along the Chahar Bagh boulevard. Originally it was not connected to the arcades built around the maidan from 1590-95, but in the manner of many Safavid buildings, the plan was modified as the need arose, and the eastern facade of the building was extended to allow it to open directly onto the west side of the square. From the elevated talar, or portico, the Shah and his rentinue could observe activities in the square. When the occasion demanded, the party could retire to the splendidly embelished interior housing seven distinct floors.

The interior is covered with paintings attributed to Reza Abbassi, the court painter of Shah Abbas I. He and his pupils created naturalistic scenes which included depictions of human and animal forms--subjects usually proscribed in Islamic art, but commonly rendered during the Safavid era with its rich tradition of Persian miniature painting.

It is worth comparing this building to the Chehel Soutoun pavilion, which is roughly contemporary. Both buildings make use of the talar portico and were used for receptions and entertainment.