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Diary Entry: 1st-6th Nov 2005 - To boldly go...
Diary Entry: 7th-12th Nov 2005 - Iran, the land of snow and ice but no teaspoons
Diary Entry: 12th-17th Nov 2005 - Rain Rain Go Away
Diary Entry: 17th-22nd Nov 2005 - Curses for international time zones!

Photo Album for Iran

Country Highlights En Route

Esfahan

This 2500 years old city served as Persia's capital from 1598 to 1722 and was a crossroad of international trade and diplomacy, and therefore was a kaleidoscope of resident languages, religions, and customs. This city is renowned not only for the abundance of great historical monuments, but also for its Life-Giving River, The Zayandeh-Rood, which has given the city an original beauty and a fertile land. Esfahan is filled with old gardens and some of the best sights in Iran.

Choqa Zanbil

The well-preserved ziggurat, or pyramid, at Choqa Zanbil, is by far the best preserved and most dramatic example of Elamite architecture. It was built at Dur Untashi, a city near Susa, by Untash-gal, King of Elam, circa 1250 BC. The ziggurat, which served as both a temple and a tomb, comprised five towers of varying heights, each uniquely constructed one inside the other.

Persepolis

One of the most awe-inspiring monuments of the ancient world, Persepolis was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenian empire. It was built during the reign of Darius I, known as Darius the Great (522-485 BC), and developed further by successive kings. At the head of the ceremonial staircase leading to the terrace is the Gateway of All Nations, built by Xerxes I and guarded by two colossal bull-like figures.

Bisotun

Site of the most famous royal proclamation carved by Darius I on the great cliff known as "Mountain of the Gods" which celebrates various of his victories including his defeat over Gaumata, pretender to the throne.

Kerman and Mahan

A desert town, Kerman is home to the colourful Vakil (Regent's) Bazaar which houses a picturesque subterranean teahouse and 17th century bath house museum. The town also has a fine mosque, the 14th century Masjed-é Jame', or Friday Mosque.