There are many legends and fairy tales about the fascinating and mysterious Persia in ancient times. Interest in the country of the finest silks, exquisite carpets and incredible palaces has not waned for centuries, and, despite cultural and religious differences, the country attracts tourists from all over the world.
Iran It's not easy to find on the world map. We will try to help you with this.
Iran on the world map in Russian
The history of the area spans almost five thousand years. A long period Persian Empire was one of the largest states in the world and the most influential eastern region.
As a result of the overthrow of the monarchical system in 1935, a new state emerged on the world stage - the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Visa regime
Iran is a country of strict morals and rules, so you should take care of everything related to legislation and the procedure for processing documents in advance.
Do I need a visa and how to get it?
Visa for traveling to Iran necessary. Registration occurs in two ways: you can receive the document at the Moscow consulate (the procedure is completed in about 4-5 days) or upon arrival at the airport.
Documentation that will be needed:
- operating with blank pages;
- colored photos on a white background 3.5x4.5 cm (it is advisable for women to be photographed with their heads covered);
- extract from bank account;
- questionnaire, completed by the applicant;
- confirmation armor hotel or tour;
- medical insurance;
- check about payment of the visa fee.
The document is issued for a period of 14 days. The abolition of visas for trips to Iran for Russians is expected. Recently, an amendment was introduced to local legislation - a citizen cannot enter Iran if he visited Iran in the current year.
In what cases is an entry permit not required?
The only region where a representative of any country can stay for up to 14 days without a visa is Kish Island. However, all tourists must register at the local police station.
Holidays in the country
Iran is an amazing state with a thousand-year history, capable of capture the imagination any traveler. Many tourists are put off by the ban on alcohol and women's clothing standards. However, those who have already visited Iran claim that the people there are friendly and very friendly.
The main thing is to respect religion, culture, observe rules, traditions and standards of decency.
Iranian resorts on the Caspian Sea
To the east of Azerbaijan, which borders Iran, is the Caspian coast, whose length is 7204 km. It is the largest salt water body on the planet, and Wonderful suitable for a complete vacation.
This place is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and green areas of Iran. Of interest to Russian tourists here is not only a siesta on the beach, but also a chance to wander through endless green fields and meadows, to see the process of growing and harvesting tea and local fruits.
- Babulsar. The region is not remarkable for its cultural monuments, but has a developed infrastructure, a large number of hotels and accommodations. It is the cultural center of the Caspian region.
- Nowshehr. The resort has flourished since the reign of Shah Reza, when it served as a summer residence for the royal family and officials. The climate here is more humid than in other regions of Iran. Within the city there are many inexpensive hotels (Apadana Hotel, Nasim Hotel) and private villas.
Gilan. Historically, this region has been associated with Russia for almost 100 years. At first, Gilan became part of the empire, then it became dependent on the USSR, which is why it is still a favorite vacation spot for Russian tourists.
Now the largest settlement in the region is Rasht. Near it is the Anzeli port. The region is valued by fishermen due to the abundance of trout that lives in the large Sefidrud River.
This province is one of the few areas in Iran suitable for growing tea and rice. Rasht is famous for its old bazaar, park and city hall.
Of the hotels it should be noted Kadus Hotel, located right on the coast. Within walking distance are shops and restaurants, a hospital building and customs.
Ramsar. The city is located in the province of Mazanderan, between the sea and hills covered with dense forests. The most popular are the baths and healing springs. The summer palace of the last Shah was based here - at the beginning of the 20th century, Ramsar began to be actively used as a recreation center.
There are hotels in the city Forest Resort with access to the beach. Apartment rooms at the Ramsar Kowsar Hotel with views of the green hills are also in demand.
The beaches in Babulsar are pebbly, swimming is possible only in specially designated areas (the ban should not be ignored).
Chalus. This port is a favorite vacation spot for Tehran residents due to its developed infrastructure and the presence of numerous hotel complexes. Tourists are often attracted by the Namak-Abrud entertainment center, which includes a hotel complex, recreation areas with designated areas on the beach and a funicular.
Another attraction of Chalus is the palace Chaikhoran, which served in ancient times as the residence of the shahs.
Men and women swimming apart, in specially designated areas. At the same time, girls are allowed to appear on the beach only in closed clothes.
To avoid health problems, read about what water temperature is best to swim in the sea.
Khalij-e Gurgan. A bay separated by a single oblique from the sea. Its banks are part of the Miankale Nature Reserve.
There is a city on the shore of the bay Behshahr. Unlike other seaside resorts, there are not a large number of hotels here, so travelers are advised to stay in Behshahr while passing through.
Gulistan Province. Located on the border with Turkmenistan, it is covered with steppes and has a dry, arid climate. In the broad-leaved foothills of Elbrus there are forested areas of Sorkh Pushte and Shast Kulo.
The first one in Iran is also famous Gulistan National Park, covering a vast area of tropical forest. Animals and birds live here, many of which are listed in the Red Book. This makes Gulistan an exceptional place to study Iran's rich fauna.
There are campsites on the territory of forest parks, but you can also stay in local hotels.
Hotels provide the best service Nahar Khoran And Azin. Shelter can also be found in neighboring cities: Gonbed-Kavus, Azarshahr or Minudasht.
One of the features of the Caspian coast is bioluminescent plankton, which creates a bluish glow to the coastline.
Residents of the region claim that swimming in such waters causes discomfort, so evening bioluminescent beaches are usually deserted. But many tourists are willing to endure minor inconveniences in order to see and participate in this fantastic natural installation.
Resorts in the Persian Gulf
- Hendurabi. A small island in the Persian Gulf. Characterized by high humidity and thin air, rocky and flat terrain. At the moment, no one lives on Hendurabi, since there is no drinking water or electricity, but this area is often visited by exotic lovers. You can get to the island by boats that go there several times an hour.
Kish Island. The main beach resort of Iran, which is in great demand among Russian holidaymakers. It is famous for its network of sports institutions - diving and equestrian schools, courts and training grounds.
There are a huge number of hotels on the island, ready to offer service of any level. The best hotel is considered to be five star Dariush Grand Hotel with modern design, swimming pools and access to the sea.
However, there are no legal beaches for men and women to swim together on Kish Island.
More budget accommodation options include the futuristic-style Eram and Sadaf. Hotel Shaygan Suitable for families - there is plenty of entertainment for children, including playgrounds, slides and playrooms.
Bandar Abbas. Port city in the south. The climate here is warm and dry, with temperatures reaching 49°C in summer. History buffs may be interested here in the old city harbor and the Kolah-e Farangi mansion.
There is a nature reserve not far from the city Kuh-e Kashar, which presents the flora and fauna of the steppe and mountain zones. Bandar Abbas is not very popular among holidaymakers, so prices in local hotels are very affordable.
Ski resorts
Active recreation in the mountains of Iran occurs from November to April. The main ski resorts of the country are located in the regions Mazandaran And Kalardasht.
- Toshal. It is based just 60 km from the capital of Iran, so this resort is considered “home” by local residents. Two mountain peaks merge into one huge natural barrier, forming several main descent areas of different difficulty levels.
- Shemshak. The oldest resort in the east of the country, closing the “big three” ski slopes in Iran. Among fans of this sport, it is believed that the descent on Shemshak is much more difficult than on Dizin. The slopes are stepped, and the tracks replace huge virgin fields. There are two hotels for accommodation, as well as several restaurants with excellent cuisine.
Dizin. A few hours' drive from Tehran, the best Iranian mountain resort, Dizin, is located. A decent altitude (from 900 to 3500 m), magnificent snow and steep slopes attract both beginners to skiing and extreme sports enthusiasts. The resort is well equipped - four-seater ski lifts go from the village to the slopes.
There are only two hotels in Dizin, but there are cottages and villas that are often rented by skiers. Attractiveness It is popular among tourists due to the liberality of local morals - this is the only place in Iran where women can walk with their heads uncovered.
Resort services are provided by a four-star hotel at the foot of the mountain slope.
Sights - photos and descriptions
The birthplace of one of the oldest civilizations in history is rich in cultural monuments, archaeological relics, and destroyed cities. The contrast of Iran's nature is also admirable - travelers can enjoy views of the endless desert, subtropical thickets or snow-capped peaks.
Architecture
- Kashan monuments. Kashan is a city in the center of the country, famous for its numerous architectural monuments. Within the city limits there is the Meydan Mosque of the medieval period, the Zeinaddin Minaret, the tomb of Shah Abbas I and the palaces of the 19th century aristocracy.
- Imam Square or Naqsh-e Jahan. It was built in the 16th century, during the reign of Abbas. A huge territory with gardens and fountains includes a central palace - the residence of the ruling dynasty, a mosque and a bazaar famous throughout the country.
- Mashhad. A city in northeastern Iran, founded in the 1st millennium AD. e. A city of pilgrimage for many Muslims and a sacred place for Shiites. It houses the mausoleum of Imam Reza, built during the Safavid era, a museum, a public library and a temple complex.
- Pasargadae. The first capital of the Persian state. Territory in the province of Fars, near the city of Shiraz. Of historical value are the four-level gardens, the Toll-e Takht fortress, the ruins of royal palaces and the main treasury of the East - the burial place of Cyrus the Great, which Alexander the Great visited during his campaign.
Ruins of Persepolis. This city was one of the capitals of the Persian Empire during the Achaemenid dynasty. The story of his fall is legendary - according to legend, Alexander the Great in 330 BC. e. ordered the destruction of Persepolis in revenge for the troubles caused by the Persians to the Greeks.
The conqueror, in the midst of a festive feast, together with the getteras and warriors accompanying him, set fire to the palace, symbolically putting an end to the power of the Persian state.
Fragments of many buildings from the ancient period have been preserved, the most famous of which is the Apadana Palace with its ceremonial hall.
What to see in nature?
- Dune desert. In the central region of Iran, the clay desert is a landmark. At different parts of the road it looks either completely flat or hilly, with dunes and sandy mounds, sometimes almost white to match the color of a salt marsh, sometimes dark with a large amount of pebbles.
- Red Desert. Driving along the ancient road from the city of Qom, travelers can enjoy magnificent views of the blood-red heath, which takes on this color due to the outcropping of various rocks.
- Bishe Waterfall in Lurestan. It is located in a small village of the same name, which can be reached by train, admiring the mountain scenery. Merging at the top of the mountain range, streams of water fall into the mountain gorge from a height of 45 meters.
- Maharlu. A deep pink lake in Fars province. The incredibly bright color is due to the high concentration of salt. There are no fish in the reservoir, but flamingos can often be seen here.
Nowadays, it is not necessary to stand in lines to buy a ticket for any type of transport. Read about how to buy an electronic plane ticket and use it.
Learn some interesting facts about Iran from the following video:
Iran is a Middle Eastern state most recently (before 1935) known as Persia. The oldest cities on Earth are located on the territory of the country.
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Iran is a Middle Eastern state most recently (before 1935) known as Persia. On the territory of the country there are the most ancient cities on Earth, religious shrines of Zoroastrianism and Islam, and numerous natural attractions. The country has gigantic oil reserves and is one of the key players in global commodity markets.
Location, composition and cities
The Islamic Republic of Iran is located in the western part of Asia, washed by the Caspian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf.
Administratively, Iran consists of 31 ostans, which in turn are divided into smaller administrative-territorial units - Shahrestans and Bakhshis.
Largest cities: Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Karaj and Tabriz (population more than 1 million people).
The capital of Iran is the city of Tehran.
Borders and area
The country shares land borders with countries such as Iraq, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
Iran covers an area of 1,648,000 square kilometers.
Location on the map
Timezone
Population
75,078,000 people.
Language
The official language is Persian (Farsi).
Finance
The official currency is the rial.
Medical care and insurance
The highest level of medical care is observed in Tehran. Emergency and primary care are free, all further treatment is very expensive. It is recommended to be vaccinated against cholera, polio, yellow fever, diphtheria, tuberculosis, hepatitis A and B and tetanus. Before visiting the country, be sure to purchase international health insurance.
Mains voltage
230 Volt. Frequency 50 Hz.
International dialing code
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Subtropical in the north and tropical in the south, mostly continental and continental mountainous. The coast of the Persian and Oman Gulfs is located in a zone of hot and humid tropical climate, the temperature ranges from +16-18°C in winter to +24-30°C in summer, with relatively large amounts of precipitation (up to 1000 mm on the mountain slopes, up to 600 mm in flat areas). The central regions of the country are dominated by an arid subtropical climate, while the uniformity of weather conditions is greatly distorted by the mountainous terrain. The temperature here ranges from +3-8°C in winter to +30-32°C with regular temperature increases up to +40°C and precipitation of no more than 250 mm per year. In the mountainous regions of Elborz and Zagros it is much cooler (in summer +16-26°C, in winter from -4°C to +12°C), and wetter (precipitation falls up to 2000 mm per year). The best period to visit Iran is from mid-April to early June, and from late September to early November.
Population
About 69 million people. More than 60 nationalities, ethnic groups and tribes live in Iran, of which the most numerous are Persians (51%), Azerbaijanis (24%), Gilaks and other representatives of Turkic tribes (8%), Kurds (7%), Arabs (3%) , Lurs (2%), Turkmens (2%), Balochis, Armenians, etc. In addition, hundreds of thousands of refugees from Afghanistan and Iraq permanently reside in the country.
Geography
Iran is one of the largest states in South-West Asia (area 1.648 million sq. km). It borders with Turkey (in the northwest), Afghanistan and Pakistan (in the east), Iraq (in the west), as well as Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan (in the north). In the north, Iran is washed by the waters of the Caspian Sea, in the south by the Persian and Oman Gulfs.
Shia Islam is professed by 89% of the population (Shiism is the state religion of the country), Sunni Muslims make up 10% of the total number of believers (there are also adherents of other Islamic sects), some of the population professes Zoroastrianism (0.1%), Judaism (0.3 %) and Christianity (0.7%). All religious communities enjoy complete freedom of worship, and the protection of cultural, social and political rights of all religious minorities is recognized in the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Representatives of all faiths are represented in the Mejlis.
Official - Farsi (Persian). Turkic dialects, Kurdish, Turkish, Arabic, etc. are also used. English and French are used in business circles.
Holidays
December-February - Eid al-Adha (Eid al-Adha, holiday of sacrifice). January-February - Islamic New Year. early February - The suffering of Imam Jafar Sadeq. February-April - Ashura. February 11 - Victory Day of the Islamic Revolution 1979. February 18 - Imam Reza's birthday. March 19 is the Day of Nationalization of Oil Fields. March 27 - Eid Ghadir Khom (the day Muhammad named his successor Imam Ali). end of March - beginning of April - Nowruz (Navruz, Iranian New Year) and Sizda be-Bedar. April 1 is Islamic Republic Day. April 17 - Tashua. April-May - Arbain (The Sorrows of Imam Hussein). June 4 is the anniversary of the death of Imam Khomeni. June 5 is the Day of the Uprising against the Shah. June 16 - Mawlid (Birthday of the Prophet). July 4th is the Day of the Death of the Prophet. August-October - Imam Ali's birthday. September-November - Imam Mahdi's birthday. September-December - The suffering of Imam Ali. October - Laylat al-Meiraj (Rise of the Prophet). October-November - Eid al-Fitr (Eid al-Fitr, end of Ramadan). November - The suffering of Imam Jafar Sadeq. December-February - Imam Reza's birthday. The Iranian calendar is based on zodiac events and the traditional Islamic lunar calendar, so the dates of many events are approximate. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha can last from 2 to 10 days depending on the region of the country. The official day off in the country is Friday; most institutions and shops are closed on this day (also closed on national and religious holidays).
National characteristics
When visiting a country, you should exercise some caution in your behavior and statements so as not to offend the religious feelings of local residents. This especially applies to clothing and relations between the sexes. The country has adopted separate travel for men and women on public transport (even at the funicular or at the ticket office, there are often two queues - one for men and one for women). Wearing the hijab (“dress of modesty”) is mandatory for women. For a tourist, long trousers (in no case tight) or a long skirt, a dress with long sleeves or a cape, and a headscarf will be sufficient. Be sure to dress this way when traveling around cities, in hotel lobbies, or when shopping in the bazaars. Wearing a veil and clothing that covers the hands and ankles of the feet is mandatory for women when visiting a mosque or holy places. Shorts and sleeveless T-shirts for men are also unacceptable in such cases. During the lunar month of Ramadan, devout Muslims fast during the daytime and eat only after dark, so the normal course of events or business relations during this period is often disrupted. Many shops and restaurants are closed during the day, and smoking and drinking are strictly limited. The official day off in the country is Friday, when institutions and most shops are closed. They are also closed on national and religious holidays.
National cuisine
Iranian cuisine is one of the oldest in the world. Therefore, its recipes can be considered one of the most unusual in the world, although not in appearance it is very simple and satisfying. The basis of many dishes is rice, bread, meat, fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits in all sorts of combinations. A characteristic feature is the very fine cutting of meat and its rare participation in the meal as the main product - most often the meat is used as an ingredient in complex dishes.
To travel to Iran, Russian citizens need a visa. A visa is not required only for a trip to Kish Island (without visiting other parts of the country). Applying for a visa To obtain a visa, you must provide the Iranian consulate with an application form, one photograph in visa format (for women under 30 years old - preferably wearing a headscarf), a valid passport (the passport must be valid for at least 6 months) and an invitation from the host party or tourist organization (voucher ). Consular fee for a tourist visa is 2170 rubles. Payment is made at Bank Melli Iran (Moscow, Mashkova St., 9). The processing time is from 10 to 20 days (sometimes up to a month), since permission from the Iranian Ministry of Internal Affairs is requested for each entry. If the invitation was officially issued through the Iranian side, then the visa is issued at the consulate in your presence in 20 minutes. Visa at the border It is possible to obtain a temporary tourist visa for 7 days immediately upon arrival at the airports of Isfahan, Mashhad, Shiraz, Tabriz and Tehran. The visa fee in this case is $50. You must have round-trip tickets and proof of sufficient financial resources for the entire period of your stay in the country. Visas will be denied to women who do not wear headscarves, as well as to persons who have a valid or expired visa to Israel.
Iranian rial (international designation - IRR, domestically - IR)
Currency exchange
Banks are open from 08.00 to 15.00-16.00 from Saturday to Wednesday, some branches are open from 08.00 to 20.00. Closed days are Thursday and Friday, although large banks are open on Thursday from 8.00 to 13.00. In tourist areas, US dollars, pounds sterling and euros are accepted for payment; in the rest of the country, their use is illegal, although this rule is widely ignored. Currency can be changed at Tehran airport, in some hotels or banks, in exchange offices (very few) on the streets and markets, and only at the official rate. You can also make an exchange with numerous private money changers on the market, who usually offer the most favorable rate, but officially this is considered illegal, although in practice it is not prosecuted. Credit cards and traveler's checks are accepted for payment only in major banks and hotels in the capital and on the island of Kysh. It is almost impossible to use them in other areas. Also, owners of non-cash means of payment issued by US banks often face great difficulties. Due to the trade boycott of Iran and the inability to use plastic cards from the world's leading systems, you can use a special “tourist card” from Parsian Bank, which can be used to pay in several tens of thousands of shops, shopping and tourist centers, and when leaving the country, convert the balance into any currency .
Transport
Transport in Iran fully meets the modern requirements of the European traveler. The best way to travel between cities is by plane - quickly, conveniently and very cheaply. The railway network is not very dense, but for some destinations it may be convenient to choose an overnight train journey. Finally, the most budget-friendly transport for traveling is intercity buses. At train stations you can find timetables in English. The cashiers also speak English or will certainly call someone who can establish communication. Prices for any type of transport are more than affordable. We recommend taking a taxi inside the city and to the nearest suburbs. It's also inexpensive, especially if you're traveling with a group.
(Islamic Republic of Iran)
General information
Geographical position. Iran is a country in southwest Asia. In the north it borders with Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, in the east with Afghanistan and Pakistan, in the west with Iraq and Turkey. In the north it is washed by the Caspian Sea, in the south by the Gulf of Oman, the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.
Square. The territory of Iran occupies 1,648,000 square meters. km.
Main cities, administrative divisions. The capital is Tehran. Largest cities: Tehran (6,830 thousand people), Mashhad (2,011 thousand people), Isfahan (1,915 thousand people), Tabriz (994 thousand people), Shiraz (848 thousand people). Administrative-territorial division of the country: 24 ostans (provinces).
Political system
Iran is an Islamic republic. The spiritual head of state is the Ayatollah. The secular head of state is the president. Legislative power lies with the unicameral Assembly of the Islamic Council (Majlis).
Relief. Most of Iran is occupied by a central plateau, approximately 1,200 m above sea level and almost entirely surrounded by mountain ranges.
In the north, parallel to the shore of the Caspian Sea, are the Elburz Mountains, where the highest point of the country is located - Mount Damavand (5,604 m). The Zagros Mountains stretch along the western border to the southeast towards the Persian Gulf. To the east of the plateau lie lower mountains. The flat areas lie along the coastal strip near the Caspian Sea. In the center of the state there are two vast deserts: the sandy-rocky Dasht-i-Lut and the salty Dasht-i-Kavir.
Geological structure and minerals. The country's subsoil contains rich reserves of oil and natural gas, and less significant reserves of coal, iron ore, chromium, copper, zinc, lead, manganese, and sulfur.
Climate. Based on climatic characteristics, Iran can be divided into three regions: the very hot coast of the Persian and Oman Gulfs; temperate but arid climate of the central highlands; cold climate in the Elborz mountains region. The average January temperature in Tehran is from -3°C to +7°C, in July - from +22°C to +37°C. In Abadan (on the coast of the Persian Gulf) - from +7°C to +17°C in January and from +28°C to +44°C in July. The average annual precipitation in Tehran is about 250 mm, in Abadan - less than 200 mm.
Inland waters. In winter and spring, small rivers flow into the Dasht-i-Kavir desert. Most Iranian rivers dry up during the dry season. The main, non-drying rivers, mostly short, originate in the foothills in the north or south of the country and flow into the Caspian Sea, the Persian Gulf or the Gulf of Oman. The Karun River is the country's main navigable river. There are few large lakes in Iran; they mostly dry up during the dry season. The largest lake that lies entirely within Iran is Lake Urmia (Rezaie) in the north of the country.
Soils and vegetation. In the Zagros Mountains there are forest areas where oak, walnut, elm, and pistachio trees grow. On the seaward slopes of the Elborz Mountains and in the Caspian Valley, the vegetation is very rich: a large number of ash, elm, elm, oak, birch, and some evergreens. Cacti and thorns grow in desert areas.
Animal world. The fauna is represented quite widely: rabbit, fox, wolf, hyena, jackal, leopard, deer, porcupine, ibex (mountain goat), bear, tiger, badger. Among the birds in the center of the country there are a large number of pheasants and partridges, on the coast of the Persian Gulf - flamingos and pelicans. The Caspian Sea is home to beluga, herring, and sturgeon.
Population and language
Iran's population is about 68.96 million people, with an average population density of about 49 people per square kilometer. km. Ethnic groups: Persians - 51%, Azerbaijanis - 24%, Gilaks and Mazandarans - 8%, Kurds - 7%, Arabs - 3%, Lurs - 2%, Balokhi - 2%), Turkmens - 2%. Languages: Farsi (New Persian) (state), Turkic, Kurdish.
Religion
Shiites - 95% (state religion), Sunnis - 4%, Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, Baha'is.
Brief historical sketch
In the middle of the 1st millennium BC. e. Cyrus the Great created the Persian Empire, which lasted until 333 BC. e., when it was conquered by Alexander the Great. In the next century, Persia regained its independence, and the Persian kingdom lasted until the 7th century. n. e. With the advent of Islam on the territory of Persia, the country was included in the Medina, and later in the Damascus Caliphate. The old Zoroastrian religion of Persia practically disappeared, completely suppressed by Islam. In the 11th century Iran was captured by the Turks, and later by the Seljuks, the Mongols of Genghis Khan, the army of Tamerlane and the Turkmens, who stayed in Iran the longest - until 1502. In 1502, Iran regained its independence with the coming to power of the Persian Safavid dynasty, which ruled the country until 1722. Shah Abbas I, who ruled in the second quarter of the 17th century, is considered the most powerful ruler of this dynasty. After his death, the gradual decline of the country began, leading to the conquest of Iran by the Afghan army in 1722. However, within a few years a new dynasty was founded, leading Iran to relative prosperity.
In 1906, a constitutional monarchy was proclaimed in Iran, which lasted until 1979, when Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi was dethroned. In January of the same year, Ayatollah Khomeini declared Iran an Islamic republic. Khomeini's rule was marked by brutality and was marked by an international scandal when American diplomats were taken hostage in Tehran in November 1979, as well as the death sentence of the British writer of Indian origin Salman Rushdie, who wrote the book The Satanic Verses, which was offensive to Islam. In 1993, Rafsanjani confirmed the verdict.
Brief Economic Essay
Iran is an agrarian-industrial country with a developed oil industry. Extraction of oil, gas, coal, chromite, lead-zinc, copper, manganese and iron ores. Oil refining and petrochemical enterprises. Ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. Mechanical engineering and metalworking. Food-flavoring and textile industries. Handicraft production (carpets, hardware). The main food crops are grains (wheat, barley), rice, legumes; industrial cotton, sugar beets, sugar cane, tobacco, tea. Fruit growing, melon growing, viticulture, planting nut and pistachio trees. Extensive livestock farming (sheep, goats, cattle, camels). Sericulture. Marine fishing. Export: oil and oil products (95-99% of cost), carpets, caviar. (
The currency is the Iranian rial.
Brief sketch of culture
Art and architecture. Tehran. Bastan Museum with archeological exhibits from ancient Persian cities; imam mosque; Aka Shrine; Apiyabad is the burial place of Ayatollah Khomeini; the 45 m high Shahiyad Tower, built in 1971; Negarestan Museum with a collection of Iranian art from the period of the Persian Empire; Ethnographical museum; Carpet Museum; National Art Museum. Shiraz. Masjid-i-Jama Mosque (IX century); tombs of the Persian poets Hafez and Saadi; Kom Museum and Pars Museum. Urmia (homeland of the prophet Zoroaster). Jama Mosque; Mosque of the Three Domes. Tabriz. Blue Mosque (XIII century); Citadel (XIV century). Hamadan. Tomb of Esther and Avicenna's tomb. Esfahan. Royal Masjid-i-Shah Mosque (XVII century); Masjid-i-Sheikh-Lutfullah Mosque; royal garden with a throne room on 40 columns; Shah Hussain school of dervishes, founded in 1710 Nishair. Tomb of Omar Khayyam. Mashhad (holy city of Shia Muslims). Tomb of Ali ar-Rida and tomb of Caliph Harun al-Rashid.
Literature. Omar Khayyam (c. 1048-after 1122) - poet, author of world-famous philosophical quatrains - rubai; Saadi (between 1203 and 1210-1292) - writer and thinker (poem “Bustan”, collection of parables “Gulistan”).
Iran is one of the largest Asian countries. It borders countries such as Iraq, Türkiye, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan and Armenia. The capital is the city of Tehran. Iran is a country on whose territory thousands of years ago the first centers of human civilization were located. What are the main features of this country?
Main information and geographical characteristics of Iran
The main part of the country is located on Here plateaus alternate with high plains. In the northern part of the country there is the Elbrus mountain range. It is separated from the Caspian Sea by a small strip of lowland. The climate of the country is continental subtropical. Iranian rivers are usually low-water. The largest lakes are Urmia and Hamun.
The entire area of Iran is divided into 27 districts, or "stops". The largest cities are Isfahan, Tabriz, Urmia, Abadan, Mashhad. Iran also includes some islands located in the Persian and Ottoman Gulf. The total area of Iran is 1.65 million km2. The state is in 17th place in the world in terms of territory. The currency unit is the rial.
Economy
A significant part of Iran's area is rich in mineral resources. These are manganese, copper, chromium, zinc ores. Foreign trade products include carpets and nuts, as well as fishing products. Most of the population living in Iran is engaged in agriculture. One of the main problems is low soil fertility and lack of fresh water for irrigation. About a third of the total population is unemployed. Mostly these are young people.
Population
More than 60 ethnic groups live in Iran. Mostly these are Persians - they live in the southern and central parts of the country. In the north live Gilyans, Mazenderans, and Talysh. In the western territory there are Kurds, Lurs, Bakhtiaris, in the eastern territory there are Pashtuns, Balochis, Tajiks. All these nationalities are ethnically close to the Persians. It is known that Iran is one of the “youngest” countries in the whole world. The number of residents whose age does not exceed 15 years is approximately 25%. The next largest ethnic group is Azerbaijanis. According to various estimates, their number ranges from 20% to 40% of the total population. Why do so many Azerbaijanis live on both sides of the Iranian border? This is due to the fact that historically the territory of present-day Azerbaijan is part of the Iranian state system. They are part of Iranian society. And in the western part of Iran live Kurds (from 5% to 10% of the total). The total population is 78.4 million people.
Languages in Iran
What languages are most common among Iranians? There are many misconceptions about this. The majority of Iranians are Persians by nationality. Therefore, they speak Persian, or Farsi. Persian is the most widespread among the Iranian group of the Indo-European language tree. It has about 50 million speakers in Iran (which is more than 80% of the total population).
Farsi is not only the official language in Iran - it is spoken in Tajikistan and the Pamirs. There are also a few communities that use Farsi in Iraq, the UAE, and Yemen. For written speech, Farsi speakers use a slightly modified Arabic alphabet - several letters have been added to it that are not in Arabic itself. The Persian language contains a large number of borrowed lexical units from Arabic. This language influenced Farsi as a result of conquests in the 7th century.
From the history of Farsi
Farsi has a fairly ancient history. The first sources of the Old Persian language date back to the 1st millennium BC. e. At that time, cuneiform writing was widely used. The oldest version of Farsi underwent transformations over the course of 2 thousand years. Around the 1st millennium AD. e. the era of the Middle Persian language began, which was the official language in the 7th century AD. e. political transformations took place - Persian territory was conquered by the Arabs. At this time, Middle Persian was used by small Zoroastrian diasporas and the Parsi ethnic group in India.
The next stage was the New Persian language, which included elements from Arabic. Starting from the 9th century, Farsi very quickly acquired the status of a second literary language throughout the Muslim world. Currently, Farsi differs significantly from the classical New Persian language. These differences are visible in pronunciation, writing, and vocabulary. The basis for oral speech, corresponding to stylistic and grammatical norms, is the Tehran dialect.
President of Iran
The current leader of Iran is Hassan Rouhani, who won the elections on May 20, 2017. In total, about 41 million Iranians took part in the elections. 57% of the total number of voters voted for the incumbent president, while 38% voted for his opponent, Ibrahim Raisi. The political structure of Iran is such that the president ranks second in influence - in the political hierarchy, the head of state is subordinate to the religious leader (“ayatollah”). The religious head is elected by a special council. Now it is Ali Khamenei.
An unusual tradition of communication
Tourists visiting Iran for the first time are usually confused. When they want to pay for taxi services, the driver refuses the money. They come to the store - the same thing happens. What is the reason? It turns out that Iran has adopted a cultural practice under the intricate name “taarof”. Of course, as in other countries, people do not receive goods in stores or services for free. The practice of taarof is a local brand - it is an expression of true Persian politeness. If someone is invited to a party or to dinner, then the duty of the invitee is to play along with the inviter and first refuse. The practice of taarof in Iran is suitable for almost any communication situation.
Famous Persian carpets
There is a saying among the Persians: “A Persian carpet is impeccable in its impeccability, precise in its imprecision.” Where did it come from? In fact, errors and inaccuracies in Persian carpets are created intentionally. This is how the Persians strive to show that only God can create something ideal. Apart from religious issues, it is an important element of Iranian culture. After all, it is already more than 2 thousand years old. The ability to weave carpets is especially common in some regions - for example, in the city of Kashan they are passed on from generation to generation.
The Koran describes the process of creation of the world: the earth was created by Allah in six days. Seven heavenly bodies were the first to appear in the endless emptiness of Space. And then a beautiful carpet of earth spread out under them. Therefore, the carpet in the Eastern tradition is associated with a mini-model of the kingdom of God on earth. The level of well-being in the East is assessed by how many carpets a person has in his home, and how expensive they are. If for some reason a family could not afford to cover their home with carpets, it evoked compassion. Historians believe that carpets were first invented by ancient Asian nomadic tribes.
Real gold of Iran
It is known that Iran is the largest producer of caviar, one of the most expensive products on the entire globe. It is from here that its rarest type and at the same time the most expensive is supplied. called “Almas” costs more than 2 million rubles for just one kilogram. The age of the fish for this caviar ranges from 60 to 100 years.
And that's not all. The Iranian tradition of saffron production dates back about 3 thousand years. About 90% of all exports of this spice are produced here. At the same time, saffron is more expensive than many jewelry. Its price is about 4 thousand rubles per gram.
Beliefs of Ancient Iran
On the site of modern Iraq and Iran there was once Mesopotamia. The cities that appeared here in ancient times are called by modern historians the cities of Mesopotamia. They reached the peak of their power during the Sassanid era. Ancient Iranian urban culture was formed under the influence of Zoroastrianism and Manichaeism.
Zoroastrianism is a very ancient monotheistic belief. It is named after the founder named Zarathustra. The inhabitants of Ancient Greece considered Zarathustra a philosopher and astrologer. They renamed the prophet Zoroaster (from the ancient Greek “aster” - “star”). According to one version, the prophet lived in the 2nd millennium BC. e. According to researcher Mary Boyce, Zarathustra lived in the territory east of the Volga.
Manichaeism arose around the 3rd century. n. e. His prophet was Mani, or Manes, who preached in 240 AD. e. in the capital of the Sassanid Empire - Ctesiphon. Prophet Mani was sure that all religions of the world are one. The basis of Manichaeism was the opposition between good and evil.
Myths about Iran
In fact, Iran has a very high level of public safety. The last military actions took place here more than 30 years ago. This misconception has spread due to tourists who tend to confuse Iran and Iraq. Despite the fact that Iran neighbors Afghanistan and Iraq, it is absolutely safe to be on its territory. Iranians are very friendly and hospitable people. Every year, more and more tourists from different countries come here to relax.
Iran also has a high level of education and culture, especially among women. More than half of university students are girls. Women also work in offices, can do business, and take part in elections. In Iran, it is customary for women to wear headscarves, but they do not wear a full-face burqa. Among the fair half there are many fashionistas who love bright clothes.
Iran is in third place in the world in terms of the number of UNESCO cultural monuments, second only to Italy and Egypt. The history of Ancient Persia, of which modern Iran is the heir, goes back more than 5 thousand years. There used to be a saying among Iranians: “Whoever visited Isfahan has seen half the world.”