The Golestan Palace is a real gem in the center of Tehran, attracting hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. Once this beautiful palace was the residence of the Persian Shahs: the last sovereigns of Iran were crowned here – Ahmad Shah, Mozaffar al-Din Shah, Reza Shah and Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. Today itn is one of the most visited historical sites and museums of Tehran. The palace is located on Argon Square in the center of Tehran, almost next to the vibrant Grand Bazaar.
The history of the complex dates back to the era of the Safavid dynasty, but most of the palaces and mansions were built in the Qajar and Pahlavi period. Translated from Persian, the name of the palace means “garden of roses”. Truly remarkable in their beauty are not only the chambers and mansions of the palace complex, but also the paradise-like-garden immersed in lush greenery with babbling fountains and ponds.
The Golestan palace complex consists of numerous mansions, halls and chambers. The luxurious interior of the complex takes visitors to an oriental tale, hinting at the once rich and posh life of the Persian shahs. One of the truly delightful rooms in the palace complex is the Diamond Hall, decorated with exceptional mirrored works of diamond glass. Another shining with brilliants ballroom – the Mirror Hall – dazzles with its truly amazing beauty. All chambers and halls of the Golestan Palace are richly decorated with remarkable works of Iranian masters: marble mosaics and carved figures, carved wooden doors and windows, stained glass windows and mirror works, as well as precious paintings and frescoes that are stored in the museum of the complex. In 2013, the Golestan Palace was recognized as part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.