Azadi Tower
The Azadi Tower, situated in Azadi Square, is recognized as the emblem of the capital. It was crafted by Hossein Amanat and built by Mohammad Pourfathi. Before the Iranian Revolution, the tower and square were known as Shahyad, which means Shah’s Memorial. It was constructed during the 2500-year celebration of the Persian Empire. The lower section of the tower houses various facilities such as galleries, knowledge halls, Iranology halls, museums, libraries, and more. The abundance of halls and museums in the tower’s basement suggests that all available spaces were designed to have more of an exhibition aspect.
History
On November 11, 1969, the construction of Azadi Tower began and it took 28 months to complete. The tower was inaugurated on October 24, 1971, in the presence of 3,000 guests from both domestic and foreign locations. During the opening ceremony, the Cyrus Cylinder was revealed for the first time, connecting Iran’s ancient history to the current developing state. Over time, this tower, which combines architectural arches from both pre and post-Islamic periods, became a symbol of the city.
The architecture of Azadi Tower
The Azadi Tower stands at a height of 63 meters and rises 45 meters above ground level. It comprises four floors and can be accessed via two staircases with 286 steps or two elevators. The construction of the tower required 25 thousand pieces of Isfahan Joshghan marble and 900 tons of iron. The Azadi Square and Tower boast a distinctive architecture and design, featuring Iranian elements like a windbreaker, an Iranian garden, four arches, and various tiling styles. Covering an area of 50,000 square meters, the Azadi Square has an oval shape, and the tower building is located along the east-west axis, occupying about a third of the eastern side. The architect behind this magnificent structure aimed to showcase Iran’s rich history and culture through the Azadi Tower, which serves as a symbol of freedom. The tower’s interior is equally awe-inspiring, with two floors located above the main arch and under the dome, accessible via an elevator. The upper floor boasts a white concrete dome adorned with morans work, Iranian turquoise, and mosaic tiles.
The Azadi Tower’s interior
Azadi Tower is a two-floor structure with an elevator that provides access to both levels. The main arch supports one floor, while the other is situated beneath the dome. Additionally, four floors have been built deep in the ground underneath the tower. The interior of the tower is designed to be practical, with various spaces such as a gallery, library, and multi-purpose halls.
The Azadi Tower comprises three floors, and the second floor boasts an impressive architectural design. A concrete dome with a sun motif is located at the center of this floor, which illuminates both the first and second floors of the tower. It is noteworthy that this tower is the first in Iran to be constructed with white reinforced concrete for both its walls and roof.
Visiting hours
Azadi Tower can be visited every day from 9 am to 4 pm.
