Zinat Al-Mulk House is one of the most beautiful and renowned historical houses in Shiraz, located on Lotf Ali Khan Zand Street. Dating back to the Qajar era, this elegant mansion is part of the Narenjestan-e Qavam complex and today also houses the Madame Tussauds Museum of Iran, offering visitors a rich glimpse into Persian history and art.
Construction of Zinat Al-Mulk House began in 1290 AH by Muhammad Khan Qavam al-Mulk and took 12 years to complete, finishing in 1302 AH under Muhammad Reza Khan Qavam al-Mulk III. The house was originally the residence of Zinat Al-Mulk Qavam, a benevolent woman known for her charitable work. The Qavam family were prominent family of governors of Shiraz during different periods. After Zinat Al-Mulk’s passing, the house passed to Abdullah Khan Qavam and was eventually converted into a museum.
Zinat Al-Mulk House is part of the Qavam complex, connected to the main Qavam House via an underground tunnel used historically for secure passage. The two-story mansion has over 20 rooms, each exquisitely decorated with:
Floral and animal paintings
Mirror work, plastering, and wood carving
Stone carving and detailed architectural motifs
The rooms are connected along a long main axis, allowing sunlight to filter through sash windows, illuminating the interior walls beautifully. The western side houses the Mirror Hall, while the summer hall (Shah Neshin) lies beneath it. European influences are visible in paintings of women and children throughout the house, reflecting the cultural exchange during the Qajar era.
The building once included an armory and food storage, reflecting the Qavam family’s status and security needs. The southern section features five wooden pillars, reinforced to prevent termite damage, while the eastern porch, previously adorned with wood and mirror work, was destroyed by fire.
In 1380 SH, the basement was transformed into the Persian History Museum (Madame Tussauds Museum of Iran), showcasing over 50 lifelike wax statues of historical figures from different eras, including Fars nomads and Sassanid king Shapur I. Sculptures are crafted to withstand temperature variations, ensuring durability.
Zinat Al-Mulk House is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy amenities such as a photography studio and a cozy coffee shop within the complex.
For additional photos and a cultural perspective on Zinat Al‑Mulk Historical House, see this Iran Project gallery on Zinat Al‑Mulk House in Shiraz.
