The splendor of Esfahan

While sitting in the grass on the open field at Imam Square, it feels like a different world. The city of Esfahan may be surrounded by barren desert, but it is a pearl in an ocean of sand.

The Imam Square in itself is said to be the second-largest square in the world after Tiananmen Square in Beijing. While I remain a bit skeptical to that claim, there were lots of families having picnics in large open field and we got lots of attention since we were probably the only non-Iranians in the entire area. The blue tiles of the Abbasi Jame Mosque was gleaming in the sunset and children were playing in the fountain.

Searching for kebab at Imam Square.

Esfahan is known for its Persian architecture, with the beautiful mosques as centerpieces. But there is so much more to admire in the city. The Si-o-Seh bridge is magnificent, especially at night with its 33 arches beautifully lit.

Si-o-Seh bridge in Esfahan.

A bit outside the city, the old Zoroastrian fire temple Ateshkadeh-ye Esfahan is easily spotted against the horizon. The temple remains are accessible by a short climb to the top of the hill.

Ateshkadeh-ye Esfahan from below.

But the days always seem to end at Imam Square, sitting in the grass under the stars, listening to the crowds and chants.