Photo Gallery

Naghsh-e Jahan Square Tomb (built 1590s onward)

Esfahan had been the capital of Iran during the 11th century in the Seljuk era under Malik Shah (r. 1072-92), during which many important buildings were constructed under the stewardship of vizier Nizam al-Mulk (1063-92). In the following centuries Esfahan's prominence waned, particularly with the near-destruction of the city in 1387 under the rule of Timur, who ordered the massacre of 70,000 citizens following a revolt. However, the city recovered, and owing to Esfahan's central position in the Safavid empire, Shah Abbas the Great (1587-1629), restored the city as the country's capital in 1590.

As a grand act of architectural patronage, the Shah relocated the city center to the south southwest by constructing a massive square (Maidan) known as the Naghsh-e Jahan (Image of the World Square). Measuring 512 by 159 meters, the square dwarfed any contemporary plazas in Europe, and visitors from that region frequently commented on the Shah's architectural vision. The square was initially intended as the site of state ceremonies and sporting events, but by 1602, the Shah had added a commercial element with the construction of two-story shops along the perimeter, which remain in use today.

The square was anchored on its four sides with the establishment of the Jamé Mosque on the south end, the Lutfallah Mosque on the east, the Ali Qapu Palace on the west, and a grand bazaar on the north end. At night, the entire ensemble was illuminated with tens of thousands of lanterns placed around the perimeter. The complex has survived intact to the present day, and is currently considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also depicted on obverse of the Iranian 20,000 rials banknote.