People and Religion
Iran is a diverse country with a population that includes Persian, Turk, Kurdish, Lurs, Baluch, Arab, Talysh, Circassian, Assyrian, Georgian, and Turkmen peoples. The majority religion in Iran is Islam, estimated to be around 99%, and the official religion is Shia. In order of popularity, other religions practiced in Iran include Christianity, Zoroastrianism, Sunnis, and Judaism.
Government of Iran
Iran has a unique type of government that combines proxy democracy and religious rule, and it is known as an Islamic republic. The official currency used in the country is called the Iranian Rial.
Cultures of Iran
Iran is a country with a rich cultural diversity, thanks to its past as a vast land that accommodated various cultures. Today, Iran’s customs are a blend of traditional practices and modern beliefs. Some of the most significant rituals include Yalda Night, Chelle Night, Chaharshanbeh Suri, tooth festival, housecleaning, Haft-sin table, Sizdah Be-dar (which signifies getting rid of the ominousness of the 13th day), and pouring water on the back of travelers. Customs and habits like complimenting, respecting elders, and not turning one’s back to others are also essential aspects of Iranian culture.
Food
Iran offers a delightful culinary journey with a diverse range of colorful and delicious foods. Each region of the country has its customs, climate, unique lifestyle, and diverse products. Some of the traditional Iranian dishes include Abgoosht, Ghormeh sabzi, Baghali polow, Chelow kabab, and various types of Aushes, all of which are part of authentic Iranian cuisine.
Iran Nature
Iran has a diverse climate, with a significant temperature variation of more than 50 degrees Celsius between the hottest and coldest points in winter. The southern region experiences mainly hot and humid weather all year round, while the central parts have hot and dry conditions. The northern areas have pleasant weather and receive abundant rainfall during different seasons.
Mountain Ranges
Did you know that Iran has two major mountain ranges? Zagros and Alborz are the names of these ranges. The Zagros range is located in the western region of the Iranian plateau and is part of the Alpide belt. Meanwhile, the Alborz range spans from the Republic of Azerbaijan in the west, all the way to Turkmenistan and Afghanistan in the east. The highest peak of Iran, Mount Damavand, which towers at 5670 meters, can be found in the Alborz range.
Deserts
Central Iran is home to several deserts, with the biggest being Dasht-e Lut covering 95,800 km, and Dasht-e Kavir covering 97,945 km. These deserts have numerous small and large deserts within them, making them an ideal destination for desert enthusiasts.
Vegetation of Iran
Iran boasts a diverse range of vegetation which is heavily influenced by water conditions. The country experiences three distinct climates – Caspian, mountainous, and desert/semi-desert – which impact the variety, of plants and animals found in each region. The Caspian Sea and the northern areas of Iran are home to semi-dense forests and green meadows due to abundant rainfall, favorable soil quality, and mild temperatures. However, in the desert regions – including the eastern parts of Fars province and central cities – low and irregular rainfall, high evaporation rates, and wind result in a lack of continuous vegetation cover.