📖 About Shiraz

Shiraz is Iran's cultural capital and fifth-largest city, nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains in Fars Province. With approximately 1.9 million residents, this ancient city is famous as the home of Persian poets Hafez and Saadi, for its gardens, and historically for its wine (before Islamic prohibition). Shiraz is the gateway to Persepolis.

The city's gardens, particularly Eram Garden, showcase Persian garden design. Mosques with stunning tilework, historic bazaars, and literary shrines attract visitors. Shirazi people are known for hospitality and artistic temperament. Shiraz represents Iran's cultural soul—poetry, gardens, and 2,500 years of Persian civilization.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Tourism is significant—Persepolis and cultural sites draw visitors from worldwide. Manufacturing includes electronics, textiles, and cement. Agriculture in the fertile valley produces citrus, grapes, and flowers. The university sector is strong. Carpet weaving and handicrafts continue traditional production. The economy is diversified but affected by sanctions.

Shirazi culture emphasizes poetry, music, and hospitality—the city claims to be Iran's most cultured. Persian is spoken. Shia Islam predominates, though pre-Islamic traditions subtly persist. Poetry recitation and garden appreciation are cherished. Food features distinctive Shirazi dishes including shirazi salad, ash reshteh, and faloodeh (frozen dessert). The culture is refined, artistic, and proudly Persian.

📜 History

Settlement dates to 2000 BC. Nearby Persepolis was the Achaemenid ceremonial capital (550-330 BC). Shiraz became prominent after the Arab conquest (7th century) and flourished under various dynasties. Poets Saadi (13th century) and Hafez (14th century) made Shiraz synonymous with Persian poetry.

The Zand dynasty (18th century) briefly made Shiraz Iran's capital, leaving Karim Khan's citadel and bazaar. Pahlavi-era modernization preserved key heritage. Post-revolution, wine production ceased but cultural tourism grew. Today Shiraz welcomes visitors to Iran's poetic heart—Persepolis gateway, garden city, and home of immortal verse.