shiraz

Shiraz is a city in south-central Iran and the capital of Fars Province. It is one of Iran’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and has long been a center of culture, poetry, and learning. The city is famed for its historical monuments, gardens, and literary heritage, and it is associated with wine production in the region as part of its historical economy, although wine is not produced there today.

Historically, Shiraz served as a political and cultural center at various times, including as a capital during the Zand dynasty in the 18th century. It is renowned as a cradle of Persian poetry, home to the tombs of Hafez and Saadi, two of Iran’s most celebrated classical poets. The city has earned the title “City of Gardens” for its preserved and restored Persian garden complexes.

Major landmarks include the Vakil complex (which comprises Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bazaar, and a historic bathhouse), the tombs of Hafez and Saadi, the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque (the Pink Mosque) with its renowned stained glass, and the Shah Cheragh shrine, a major religious site. Shiraz also hosts several educational institutions, including Shiraz University.

The economy combines agriculture, crafts, and education-driven services. Local products include fruits such as grapes and citrus, as well as carpet weaving and other handicrafts. Shiraz is served by Shiraz International Airport and is connected to other Iranian cities by road and rail. The city experiences a hot climate in summer and milder winters, contributing to its role as a regional hub for culture and tourism.