There is a special beauty in traveling to a part of our world that is so different from our daily life that it transports us to another time and space. The many splendors of Persia, or Iran, have always held a fascination for me because of the exotic and rich nature of it’s ancient history. I’m fortunate to have been introduced to the wonders of Iran at an early age through the people. With my father entertaining Iranian clients in our home, to meeting my soul sister, an Iranian student and my college roommate, I saw their world through them.
Recently, over a glass of wine, vineyard owner and world traveler Ellen Mack, told me about her trip to Iran in 2008. Her obvious admiration for and appreciation of the beauty she saw inspired me to put together this post. Thanks to her for taking such fabulous photographs which truly show the Art and Soul of the Persian People! (click on “Full Screen” for best view)
6 Little Known Facts about Iran!
1. Persia or Iran, has one of the richest and oldest cultures in the world. For more than three thousand years, Persia was a melting pot of civilizations between Asia and Europe. Under Cyrus the Great, it became the center of the world’s first empire. Successive invasions by the Greeks, Arabs, Mongols and Turks developed the nation’s culture through rich and diverse philosophical, artistic, scientific and religious influence.
2. The Persian Empire became the dominant world power for over two centuries between 550-330 BC. It made possible the first continuous contact between East and West. It was the world’s first religiously tolerant empire and consisted of a multitude of different languages, races, religions and cultures. Prior to the rise of the Roman Empire, it set a precedent for the importance of the rule of law, a powerful centralized army and an efficient and systematic state administration. However, the greatest legacy of the Persian Empire was that it demonstrated for the first time how diverse peoples can culturally flourish and economically prosper under one central government.
3. Today Iran can boast seven UNESCO World Heritage (UWH) sites.
4. It is known for much beauty derived from Art such as tiles, rugs, music & poetry (especially Rumi and Hafiz, my personal favorites); Magnificent Architecture; and most of all the heart of it’s people.
5. Besides oil, Iran is one of the world’s biggest producers of luxury foods. The country has the fishing rights for most of the sturgeon – the source of caviar. It is also the world’s biggest producer of pistachios, as well as saffron.
6. Iran boasts thriving bazaars, the most educated people, especially women, in the Middle East…and still maintains the splendor of its ancient culture!
What ancient world to you dream of traveling to?
#1 by Bettie Sommer on February 23, 2010 - 5:39 pm
Thank you for sharing what so few Americans know about Iran.
The photos from Ellen Mack are superb and the text is fascinating.
Your Q at the end should get some people moving!
Bettie