Shiraz is the Capital of Fars province. Shiraz is one of the most beautiful, historical cities in the world. Farsi the language of Ancient Fars (Pars) has become the official language of Iran, i.e. Persian. The first capital of Fars, some 2500 years ago, was Pasargadae (is located near to Shiraz). It was also the capital of Achaemenid King Cyrus the Great. The ceremonial capital of his successor, Darius, and his son Xerxes was Persepolis. Today, only the ruins of these two capitals remain. Estakhr was another capital of Fars. It was established by the Sassanians and lasted until Shiraz finally assumed the role of the regional capital. For a better understanding on Iran dynasties and capitals visit here.

The ancient city of Shiraz is the city of Love and Literature and the origin of first samples of Persian gardens is the unique example of hospitality and warmness of its people and bears many historical and ancient attractions and old cities of Persian Empire showing the glory of a nation such as Persepolis and Necropolis and Pasargadae. You can completely feel the highlights of the cultural city of Shiraz if you travel to this nice city during spring season when the fragrance of flowers, especially orange tree blossoms has filled up the air. Secondly, you should really pay a visit to its marvelously attractive gardens which are numerous and extraordinarily beautiful and eye catching. Thirdly, you will have an amazing experience after visiting the fabulous religious sites of this city which are painted colorfully and make the people who visit the places mesmerized by the play of colors which are mostly relaxing and sacred. Finally, the amazing architecture of these attractions is what really fascinates every visitor especially the ones who study architecture and architectural styles professionally both in terms of Ancient and historical architecture and also modern architectural styles

The oldest city of ancient Persia, Shiraz is regarded as the cultural capital of Iran and the city of poetry, gardens and love. The sixth most populated city of Iran, Shiraz is famous for its laidback atmosphere as well as its many historical and natural sites.

This enchantress of a city leaves all visitors enamored with its attractions ranging from the ruins of the ancient Achaemenid capital in Persepolis, its necropolis Naqsh-e Rostam and the mysterious Cube of Zoroaster, the final resting place of Cyrus the Great in Pasargadae and the ruins of Bishapour to the lush Eram and Jahan Nama gardens, extravagant Qajar mansions like Zinat ol-Molouk and Qavam houses, striking Jame Atiq and Nasir Al-Mulk mosques and the historic Quran Gate.

In the 13th century, Shiraz was a leading center of the arts and sciences due to its many scholars and artists. The poet of love Hafez, whose poems have captured the hearts of many throughout the world, hailed from this city. The tombs of Hafez, Saadi, and Khwaju Kermani in the city are stunning structures erected in memory of these legendary bards.

Shiraz was the capital of Iran during the Zand Dynasty from 1750 to 1781. The Zand Royal District consisting of the Karim Khan Fortress, Vakil Mosque, Vakil Bazaar and Vakil Bath is a reminder from that era.

Shiraz is also home to Pouladkaf, Iran’s second largest ski resort, which draws skiers to its crisp mountain air and beautiful slopes from all over the Middle East from December to March.

Experience local nomadic life by spending a day with Qashqai tribes around Pasargadae area. Get to know the locals and their culture and ways of living, also enjoy rich and tasty local foods they prepare for you and their traditions.

Top Foods To Try:
Kalam Polo or Cabbage Rice – A mixed rice dish with meatballs and cabbage seasoned with saffron and basil.
Shirazi Salad – A salad consisting of chopped cucumber, tomatoes and onion with a verjuice and dried mint dressing.
Faloudeh or Paloudeh Shirazi – A dessert consisting of thin vermicelli noodles mixed in a semi-frozen sugar and rosewater syrup served with lime juice.