The Chehel Sotun Palace in Isfahan

Visit Iran and you will leave as a lover of art. The country has some of the most beautiful cities in the world which boast of natural green surroundings dotted with historical landmarks that are standing witnesses to the remarkable skill of Iranian architects.

One of the most beautiful cities in Iran and perhaps one among the best in the world, Isfahan is like a wonderful piece of art, drawn to perfection. With traditional Islamic buildings that are decorated with blue tiles, wonderful gardens that are present on both sides of the road, spectacularly built bridges, huge bazaars and squares, friendly people and of course a climate to match the pleasant surroundings, Isfahan is sure to captivate you in more ways than one. No wonder the city’s name translates to Half of the World.

Situated in an awe inspiring garden that sprawls over an area of nearly 67000 square meters, the Chehel Sotun Palace and Museum is a must visit monument in Isfahan. Built in the 17th century by Shah Abbas II, the pavilion is situated right in the center of the park and is preceded by a long pool which reflects the building and its surroundings in a serene manner.

The front of the building houses a huge veranda which has 20 pillars. These sturdy pillars have also earned the palace the name of “The Palace of Forty Columns”. Confused? Well, if you look into the reflection of the pillars in the pool, it would like there are 40 columns instead of just 20. Hence the name.

The palace used to be a recreational habitat for the Shah who often frequented the palace for peace and quiet and of course, some entertainment. Chehel Sotun Palace was also used as a venue for events and celebrations which included receiving foreign dignitaries and ambassadors. These events generally took place in either one of the Palace’s numerous reception halls or the sweeping terrace above the building.

The interiors of the palace are as grand as its exteriors. Creative masterpieces of art adorn the walls and the rooms are filled with antiquities from around the world. A highlight of the paintings inside the Chehel Sotun Palace is the fact that they were painted on ceramic tiles. The ceramic tiles have been removed over the years in most places and have found place in many museums in the West.

Most of these paintings show incidents in the life of the Shah and several other important events hosted within and outside the palace walls. Some of these include the Chalderan Battle that took place between the Shah and Sultan Salim I from Ottoman, the welcoming reception of the Mughal Emperor Humayun, and the reception party held in favor of the Emir of Bukhara. All these events took place between the 16th and 17th centuries. More recent paintings can also be found in addition to beautiful works of art that depict life and love in all their glory.

The Chehel Sotun Palace has today been transformed into a museum and is open to the public. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to catch a glimpse of one of the best architectural wonders of the earth. A glance from outside is enough to take your breath away. Wait till you walk into the palace. You’ll be transported into the world of ancient art which supersedes what we have today in every possible way!