Eram Garden is a popular place in Shiraz, Iran. This garden is known as one of the largest, loveliest, and most historical gardens in the country and is a favorite destination for tourists worldwide.
Located in the northern part of Shiraz, Eram Garden covers an area of about 128 hectares. The name “Eram” in Persian means “heaven,” highlighting its breathtaking beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
The history of this garden dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries AH during the Seljuk period. The original foundation of Eram Garden is linked to Atabak Khan Qarachay, a Seljuk governor of Fars associated with the Qarachay clan, part of the Qashqai tribal confederation.
For several decades, Eram Garden was owned by Qashqai tribal leaders who used it as their headquarters and added a mansion to the site. Later, during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, the current main building was constructed based on designs from the Nasir al-Mulk period. During the Pahlavi era, the garden was renovated and transferred to Shiraz University, becoming part of the botanical gardens and an academic center.
Eram Garden features terraces and stairs to adapt to the natural slope of the land. The western part of the garden houses the main and inner mansions, which are elevated compared to other sections.
In front of the garden, there is a beautiful pool surrounded by four tall palm trees whose reflections can be seen in the water, enhancing the garden’s charm.
The mansion at Eram Garden has three floors topped with a gable roof and is decorated with plastering, paintings, sculptures, iron lattice windows, inlays, and tiles. It is an exquisite example of Qajar-era architecture, influenced by earlier Safavid and Zandiya styles.
Inside the mansion, there is a museum called “Stones and Gems of the Sea of Noor,” showcasing over 140 precious and rare stones and gems from Iran and around the world. The mansion’s façade is decorated with vibrant seven-color tiles, and the two floors feature columns inspired by the ancient ruins of Persepolis.
A beautiful passage lined with cypress trees stretches through the garden, providing a perfect spot for visitors to stroll and capture stunning photos.
This Garden is open to visitors from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. throughout the year.
For more detailed information about the Garden and its historical significance, you can visit these reliable sources: Wikipedia, UNESCO Persian Gardens, which covers the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Persian gardens, and also Lonely Planet’s Shiraz Travel Guide.
