The Tomb of Saadi, also known as Saadieh, is the final resting place of the celebrated Persian poet Saadi Shirazi, one of Iran’s most influential literary figures. Located in the northeast of Shiraz, next to the serene Delgosha Garden, the mausoleum is a cultural and spiritual landmark that attracts literature lovers, historians, and travelers from around the world. The complex also includes other graves, such as that of Shoorideh Shirazi, connected to Saadi’s tomb via an elegant portico, creating a peaceful courtyard for reflection.
Saadi Shirazi (1210–1291 AD) is renowned for his timeless poetry and prose that capture human virtues, morality, and the essence of life. His literary journey began in Shiraz, and over the course of 30 years, he traveled extensively through the Middle East, India, Abyssinia, Egypt, and North Africa, experiencing diverse cultures and societies, which enriched his writings.
Two of his most influential works, Gulistan (The Rose Garden) and Bustan (The Orchard), remain central to Persian literature and are admired worldwide. Gulistan blends prose and poetry to deliver moral and social lessons, while Bustan focuses on ethical and spiritual guidance through poetry. His works have been translated into numerous languages, making Saadi a global literary icon.
The original tomb of Saadi was first constructed in the 7th century AH by Shams Al-Din Juvayni, the famous vizier of Abaqa Khan. Over the centuries, the mausoleum suffered damage and destruction. In 998 AH, the complex was destroyed by order of Yaqub Zul-Qadr, the ruler of Fars. Later, in 1187 AH, Karim Khan Zand commissioned a royal mansion over Saadi’s tomb. This earlier structure was made of plaster and brick, featuring two floors, with the lower floor including a cool air corridor, which was a common architectural element in Persian buildings to regulate indoor temperatures.
The current mausoleum was constructed in 1949 by the Iranian architect Mohsen Foroughi, with design contributions from the French architect Andre Godard. The complex features:
A long pillared porch leading to an L-shaped portico, offering a grand approach to the mausoleum.
A structure cube-shaped externally and octagonal internally, symbolizing the blend of simplicity and spiritual geometry.
Walls adorned with marble and lapis lazuli, creating an atmosphere of elegance and reverence.
Inscriptions from Gulistan and Bustan on seven sides of the mausoleum, allowing visitors to reflect on Saadi’s literary genius.
A traditional tea house in the basement, where visitors can rest, enjoy Persian tea, and absorb the tranquil ambiance.
The architecture not only honors Saadi’s legacy but also reflects the evolution of Iranian architectural styles, blending modernist 20th-century design with classical Persian motifs.
Visitors to the Tomb of Saadi can stroll through its spacious courtyard, admire the beautiful marble mausoleum, and reflect amidst inscriptions from one of the world’s most beloved poets. The complex offers a cultural and contemplative experience, connecting literature, history, and architecture in a serene setting.
Visiting Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM
Tip: The tea house and surrounding garden provide the perfect spot to relax and read some of Saadi’s poetry.
For more information about the Saadi Tomb, see the dedicated Wikipedia article on this historic mausoleum.
