The Qur’an Gate in Shiraz stands proudly at the northeastern entrance of the city, marking the beginning of Tang-e Allah-o Akbar Gorge. It is the only surviving gate among the six historic entrances that once welcomed travelers to Shiraz. Deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, passing beneath the gate was believed to bless one’s journey with safety and divine protection, giving the monument its iconic name.
Originally constructed during the 10th century under the Buyid Dynasty by Adud al-Dawla, the gate housed a handwritten Qur’an to spiritually safeguard travelers.
During the Zand era, Karim Khan Zand restored the gate and added a small room above it, where two exquisite Qur’an manuscripts by Ibrahim Sultan, a Timurid prince, were placed. Each Qur’an weighed approximately 17 kg and remained in the gate until the 20th century. Today, these manuscripts are preserved in the Pars Museum of Shiraz.
Over the centuries, earthquakes and wars damaged the gate, but it was restored during the Qajar and Pahlavi periods. While Shiraz’s other five historic gates—Isfahan Gate, Saadi Gate, Ghasabkhaneh Gate, Kazeroon Gate, and Shah-Daghi Gate—have vanished, the Qur’an Gate continues to symbolize the city’s spiritual and architectural heritage.
The gate features a pointed arch and decorative tilework, reflecting the harmony of traditional Iranian and Islamic architecture.
Daytime visits allow appreciation of its historical motifs and structural elegance.
Nighttime illumination creates a magical and memorable ambiance, making it a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike.
The surrounding park area is ideal for evening strolls and offers panoramic views of Shiraz, especially at sunset.
The Qur’an Gate in Shiraz is open to visitors at all hours. While the exterior can be admired during the day, visiting after dusk provides a serene experience with soft lighting highlighting the gate’s architectural beauty.
For more detailed information about the historical and cultural significance of the Qur’an Gate in Shiraz, visit Qur’an Gate of Shiraz- ICRO.
