Anekdotique of the day: Shiraz in Iran

The backstreets of Shiraz in Iran

This photo was taken in Shiraz in Southern Iran, where I spent some days on my recent trip to the Islamic Republic last May and June. This journey was one of the biggest travel dreams I ever had and guess what, it was totally worth it. Not only because I came home with thousands and thousands of photos (and I really mean thousands!) but with lots of great memories of incredibly picturesque places.

Isfahan, for example, the city of unbelievably gorgeous domes, lofty minarets and wonderfully fascinating inlaid mosaics and tiles. And even the capital city of Tehran that is often just called a huge juggernaut is full of beautiful buildings like the gorgeous Golestan Palace – an absolut must visit when traveling to Iran. More down south you can find the sand and mud city of Yazd surrounded by nothing than the magical desert.

And then there is Shiraz in Iran, the city where I took this snapshot in time. Pictured is a a little boy passing the time by playing with his bike, driving his rounds in the backyards, while the sun sets and colors the whole surrounding in a beautiful warm glow.

Here is a fun fact about the region of Shiraz in the Southern part of the Islamic Republic of Iran: As you might know, there is also a grape that is named after the city of Shiraz. Actually, in the 17th/18th Century the city was once very famous for its wine. Today, the preparation of the grape still has tradition there, but since alcohol consumption is officially forbidden in the Islamic Republic of Iran, the must is only used to produce vinegar. Well, at least that’s what they tell the people at school…

Want to know what it’s like to travel to Iran as a western woman? Also check out this post: As a Western woman in Iran: Leave emancipation at home.

More Articles on Iran Travel:

Backpacking in Iran: All you need to know

Stories and tips for women traveling in Iran

Best Sights and Cities in Iran: Hightlights of 1001 nights

Golestan palace in Tehran, Iran: a tiled beauty

Should anyone travel to countries that violate human rights?

  1. Iran ….. never been on my list but looks good. Maybe someday 🙂

    Reply
    • Clemens says:

      Anne – if you have the chance to go to Iran, do it! You won’t regret it! So friendly people, nice landscapes, impressive architecture! It’s really worth a visit.

      Reply
  2. Hi Clemens, I was in Iran some time ago and spent some time in Shiraz. Such a nice city with great people. I had lots of unexpected surprises, like meeting strong independent women, as well as having home-made vodka. Among other things. 🙂

    Reply
    • Clemens says:

      Pedro – That is exactly what I had experienced in Iran, including the last thing mentioned 😉 Happily this will not be my last visit for sure …

      Reply
  3. Hi Clemens,
    I read all your articles about Iran since last night, right now it’s 6 AM and I’m still reading your texts and I have to admit it, they are outstanding!!!
    It’s our pleasure that you and your friend had good times in Iran and I hope to see you soon here again, especially in Shiraz ;). It’s amazing, despite all political conflicts between governments, some people, good people like you and Annette are trying to make a connection between people, which may know nothing about Iran except bad things and the Iranians.

    Thank you for showing the real face of Iran to the world.

    Warmest regards.

    Reply
  4. Mina says:

    Shiraz is just a fantastic city with cool people and rich culture. I’ll be happy to leave Tehran’s hustle and bustle and live in this beautiful, serene city.

    Reply
  5. Monika says:

    I am loving your post. Makes me really want to explore Iran. I heard the food is amazing.

    Reply

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