A Brief History
Most tourists need to travel to historical regions and countries. Fars is one of the most historical destinations in the world that you can visit. Let's just glance at Fars historical events during centuries.
Fars is one of the biggest and crowded provinces in Iran. It is located south-central of country and has moderate weather. The city has an ancient history buried in itself. The ancient region is called Pars was the heart of the Hakhamaneshian empire. The capital was moved to a region which is called Pasargadae. Darush I the great build his palace in the mentioned region which is called Takhte Jamshid in the late 6th or early 5th-century BC. Alexander the great army defeat the Hakhamaneshian army at Arbela in 331 and burn the whole palace down. The remaining palace which is made of stone is still in Perspolis. Nobody Doesn't know how it was looking exactly? but there is some sort of computer simulations that can be found in museums around Perspolis. After Alexander, the great Fars province became part of the Seleucid kingdom in 312. The Parthian empire replaced the rule of the Seleucids in Persis during 170–138 BC (the Parthian empire is somehow related to the modern Khorasan estate in modern Iran). Fars wasn't part of any empire until the 18th century until the Zand dynasty. After hundreds of years the province become the heart of the empire but this time the capital was Shiraz city. In the 20th century, Fars become an important province again because of railways and discoveries of oil in Khuzestan province.
Climate and weather
Iran has two mountains which are called, Alborz and Zagros. The terrain of Fars is composed mostly of ridges that are prolongations of the Zagros Mountains the ridges run southeast-northwest and are intersected by plains. Climatically the province is divided into two regions is called Sardsir and Garmsir. Garmsir in Persian means hot weather. The climate here is humid and hot because it is near the Persian Gulf and the Gulf has affected weather. This area lies at elevations up to 2,500 feet (750 m). People in this zone plants cereals, vegetables, and tobacco.
Sardsir in Persian means cold weather. This region is close to the Zagros mountains. There are lots of rivers here but a river watered the most of land that is called Kur. These plains make some basins (or salty lakes) that are united in the dessert. Sardsir region has special oak forests (elevation, 2,500–4,500 feet [750–1,400 m]) which are mostly affected by climate change and human activities. There are lots of ethics groups in Fars. the famous ones are Qashaei of Turkic origin and speak the Khamseh of Arab and Turkic stock, and the Lak, who speak an East Caucasian language.
When to Go to Fars?
Now you know a piece of basic information about Fars history, climate and people. People as tourists ask it seems amazing but when we should go there?
Fars is a four-season province that has hot summers and cold winters but the weather is not that unpleasant. So, you can travel there anytime you can and you want. If you want to feel moderate weather you can visit the estate in the middle of spring. Shiraz is the chief city of estate and it is recommended to visit the town in late April. Shiraz is well known for its multicolor flowers around the streets and historical landscapes. In late April gardens and parks and even avenues are green, flowers are full-blown and the air smells like French perfumes.
In Iran, most of the people visit Shiraz in the Iranian new year (the famous international Norouz) and Shiraz gets so much crowded these days. If you are a runner from crowded people you should skip the Norouz but you will miss tons of local and national celebrations.
The best time for travel after spring is fall. There is a mild breeze, trees leaves are falling and make a great romantic air. If you ask Shirazi people, when should I travel to your city? They recommend the fall season. In this season the city is reclusion, the weather is perfect, the city atmosphere is awesome. Moreover traveling in this season is cheaper than spring because the city in spring is full of tourists so the costs of the services are higher. It is easier to find flights and hotel rooms in the fall and they are cheaper.
There is a national day for Shiraz that is the 15th of Ordibehest( May 5th, 2022). This day shows how important the city is. Locals have some sort of celebration for the special day.
Recommended month for traveling to Fars Province
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Where to Go in Fars?
First of all, you should get some information about Fars cities. There are countless places that you can visit but here is the "you must see it" list:
Shiraz
As I mentioned before Shiraz is the chief city. Shiraz has a nickname which is "poets city" because there are two international poem shrines in the city. The poems are called Hafez and Saedi. The shrines are corking, shrines area is full of tall trees and flower bushes. In spring flowers are all out in different colors. In these shrines, you can breathe natural flowers perfume. There is a wishing pool there too you can throw coins in the pool and wish whatever you want.
Shiraz is famous for its orange trees that are called "Bahar Narang". Narang is sour fruit like oranges which is used in foods ingredients. In the spring season, trees' blooms are blown and they smell awesome. Imagine the air of the whole city smells flowers and blooms. Moreover, there are lots of different historic and royal gardens in the city that you must visit as soon as you take off your plane. These gardens' names are Bagh-e-Eram, Narengestan Ghavam, Delgosha (it means a garden that makes happy), Jahan Nama (it is means a garden that you can see the whole world in it), Afifabad. If you are interested in religion especially Islam or you are a Muslim, there is a holy shire that is called Shahe Cheragh (please see there too even if you are not a believer). Shah Cheragh is the brother of the Muslim 8th Imam Imam Reza which is the most respected person in Iranian religious culture. There are more historical masques like Masched Jamee Atigh (means antique masque), Nasirolmolk. The chief city has historical places too like Arge Karim Khan, Karim bazaar, Emerat Divankhaneh.
Marvdasht
This city is placed 40 Km south of Shiraz. Marvdasht has tons of historical and natural attractions. Historical places names are Takhte Jamshid, Nghshe Rostam, Tange Boostanak (the lost heaven), and the Estakhr historical city. These historical landscapes are remained from Sasanian and Hakhamaneshian empires and show their greatness. Travel to Marvdasht to learn more about the unique culture, history, and art of this city, which represent the original customs and ancient rituals of their ancestors.
Jahrom
Jahrom is one of the historical and ancient cities of Fars province, which is located about 170 km southeast of Shiraz. The old name of Jahrom meant "warm place". Among the people who have mentioned the existence of Jahrom in the Sassanid era is the famous Iranian poet Ferdowsi. The city has many historical, religious, and natural attractions, the most important of which include the Zandieh Jahrom Indoor Bazaar, Pir Shabib Gate, Khan Mosque and School, Ghadmagah Fire Temple, Shafaq Cave, Jahrom Grand Mosque, Khafar Pearl Waterfall, etc.
Abadeh
Abadeh is one of the historical and tourist cities of Fars province and its name means the place of Abad. The city of Abadeh is located in the northern part of Fars province and it is stated that in the thousand years BC, Abadeh was the place of settlement of past civilizations. The woodcarving art of the mentioned city is world-famous and its tourist attractions include Chenar village, Izadkhast castle, Timcheh Sarafian, and others.
Estahban
Estahban is a touristic and religious city which means a place that grapes grow. Mongols burnt and destroyed the city during Changiz khan's great attack on Iran And after the destruction, it was rebuilt by Amir Mobarezuddin Al-Muzaffar. There are different kinds of natural and historical attractions like Estahban national park, Gabr cave, Jooza garden, Mahfarhan Fire Temple.
Fasa
Fasa is placed in a mountain area and has a historical background. The city economy is based on agriculture and farmer has achieved first place in the country in producing wheat. The historical places and palm trees make the city a tourist place. Attractions of Fasa include Fasa Observatory, Zahak Hill, Qamp Fire Temple, etc.
Lar
Lar is placed in plain and, it has a hot climate. This territory was an important area in the Sassanid era for placing Fire Temples and, making coins. Attractions of Lar city include Neshat Garden, Lavarestan village, Qaisaria Bazaar, Hermoud Protected Area, Dragon Body Castle, Ghadmagah Castle, Abbasi Bridge, etc.
Neyriz
The ancient city of Neyriz Fars is located in the southern half of the province. Based on archaeological excavations in this city, Glen tablets have been discovered from the Achaemenid period, which indicates its establishment in the era of Achaemenid civilization. The climate of Neyriz is temperate in the northern parts and warm in the southern parts. Among the tourist attractions of this city, we can mention Tarom waterfall, Kabir Grand Mosque, Bid Bakhoon recreation area, Bahram Goor protected area, etc.
Lamard
Lamerd city is one of the southernmost cities of the vast province of Fars. This area has hot weather in winters and there are tall palm trees that make the area eye-catching. Among the tourist attractions of Lamard, we can name the villages with good weather of Lamard, Mehran river, Qaleh Ashkanan, and Ostudan Sang Cheleh Gah.
Kazerun
Kazerun is one of the western cities of Fars province that has unique landscapes and nature. Winter yellow daffodils, citrus orchards in autumn, and beautiful springs and rivers in summer are some of the advantages that have made this city a popular and tourist city. The ancient city of Kazerun has many historical, natural, religious, and cultural tourist attractions, including the fire temple of Gareh (Jarreh), the ancient city of Bishapour, Parishan Lake, Dovan village, Imamzadeh Hossein, Shapur cave, Dasht-e Baram (Dasht Shaghayegh), narcissus fields of Kazerun and so on.
Sadra
The new city of Sadra is located in Fars province, eight kilometers northwest of Shiraz. The city has very little air pollution due to being confined between two mountain ranges that have a constant breeze. The historic city of Sadra has a pleasant climate and a very beautiful urban design.
Eghlid
Eghlid is one of the northern cities of Fars province. Great climate and ethics make this area a perfect touristic place. Attractions of this city include Imamzadeh Seyed Mohammad (AS), Imamzadeh Abdolrahman (AS), Dokhtar Gabr and Pahlavi inscription, Tang Baraq, Cheshmeh Mohammad Rasoolullah (AS), Kaftar Lake (Shadkam), Shadkam River, hunting area Baniran Basiran, Cheshmeh Gore Bahram Aspas, etc.
Bovanat
This city is near Pasargad and Khorambid and is surrounded by mountains, jungles and, gardens moreover there is a seasonal river which makes the city looks like heaven. Among the tourist attractions of Bavanat, we can mention the (big) Soorian brick bridge, the Soorian Grand Mosque, the Imamzadeh of Shah Mir Hamzeh (AS), Cheshmeh Pir Kadouyeh, Mohammad Hanafieh promenade, Qanat Ibrahim and Prince Abolghasem tourist villages, etc.
Pasargad
Historical Pasargad city is surrounded by mountains and placed on high grounds. The name Pasargad is derived from the Persian tribal name of the same name. Historical texts and documents introduce Cyrus the Great as the builder of Pasargadae. Among the popular tourist attractions of this region, we can mention the ancient site of Pasargad, the tomb of Cyrus the Achaemenid, Tang Bolaghi, etc.
Khorambid
Khorambid has a cold climate which gets perfect in hot seasons. There are lots of jungles and natural attractions in this city. It is one of the features that has attracted the attention of ecotourists and tourists. Among the tourist attractions of this city, we can mention the nature of Khorram Bid, ancient rivers, numerous caves, and old castles and inns.
Darab
This city was named Darabgard and it was the capital of the Sassanid era. This city has two climates which include hot and dry and extremely cold. Among the historical attractions of this city, we can mention Fadami waterfall, Azarakhsh fire temple, Raghaz Darab gorge waterfalls, Shapur relief, etc.
Sepidan
Sepidan is placed northwest of the province and has natural attractions based on seasonal timing. Among the tourist attractions of Sepidan, we can mention the Imamzadeh of Seyed Nooruddin (AS), the promenade of Sultan Shahbaz, the peak of suffering, Margon waterfall, Boram Firooz lake, Cheshmeh Shash Pir, Tang Tizab, Cheleh Gah, etc.
Firoozabad
The historical and touristic city of Firoozabad is located in the southwest of Fars province and about 95 km from the beautiful city of Shiraz. The temperate climate of the region and the existence of two mountain ranges in the northwest and southeast directions, dense forest cover, the presence of springs and rivers, habitats of rare species of migratory birds, wild animals, and beautiful fertile gardens are prominent features. Which have made Firoozabad one of the most popular tourist cities. Among the tourist attractions of Firoozabad, we can mention the ancient cities of Gore, Ardeshir Babakan Palace (Firoozabad Fire Temple), Qala-e Dokhtar, Tang-e Hayqar, Tangab Dam Lake, Tang-e-Kharefa, Morjan Salt Dome, etc.
Noor Abad
Noorabad city is located next to the Zagros mountain range and has a temperate climate. The very cool and temperate climate of this city, along with its historical attractions, has made it one of the most popular cities and a tourist hub. Important attractions of this city include Tang Buan, White Castle, Tangsa Waterfall, Lidoma Ancient Site, etc.
Beram Sepidan mountains and fountain
When we are 90 km north of Shiraz, we reach a city with a pleasant climate, a place where the cool climate will bring us freshness and health. In this region, where our eyes see nothing but greenery, there is a mountain with a boiling lake on its slopes. It is the second-highest peak of Fars province and the first high peak of Sepidan city. This high peak is known as the "Boram Firooz" peak and is located in the north of a very spectacular and unique lake.
Top Dishes in Fars
As I said before Iran has a rich food culture that is unique in the world especially for vegetarian tourists. Every province in Iran has its local dishes based on its climate and agricultural products. Fars has its dishes too and, if you are interested in foods there is a list here for you.
Kalam poloo
Kalam poloo is the most famous and the most delicious in the whole province. The origin of food is Shiraz and its nickname is Shirazian Kalam poloo. Cabbage, minced meat, parsley, dill, leeks, tarragon, basil, rice, chickpea flour, steamed saffron, salt, and turmeric are used to prepare this traditional dish. To make a great Shirazain Kalam poloo you must use fresh ingredients.
Do Piaze Aloo
The origin of this food is Shiraz too. This food is easy to eat. You can make it in no time and it is delicious. To cook this traditional dish, you have to fry the onion and then add the mashed potatoes. After frying a little, add salt and pepper to the potatoes and onions until the ingredients are completely cooked. The more onions in this food, the better it tastes.
Shekar poloo
This dish is specialized for parties and gatherings. Shekar poloo means sugar and rice and the base of its name the food is sweet. For making it sweetness Iranian use sugar. Rice, sugar, saffron, tangerine slices, and almond and pistachio kernels are the raw materials of sugar pilaf. This dish is usually eaten with lamb or chicken.
Ghorme Beh
Most of the Fars province's foods are sweet and Ghorme beh tastes awesome. The fat of mutton, Beh (a yellow local fruit which looks like apple and pear and tastes sweet), cobs, onions, sugar, steamed saffron, and lemon juice to make the meal. This traditional dish is eaten with rice or bread.
Yekhni Nokhod
Yekhni Nokhod is a shirazian food too and it looks like Abgoosht. We use tomato paste in Abgoosht but there isn't any of it in Yekhni Nokhod. Shirazian cook mutton, peas, and onions with water, and after cooking, they add potatoes, salt, turmeric, and pepper. After cooking, all the ingredients are beaten together and served with bread.
Lobia poloo
There is a famous Lobia Poloo that is cooked with snap beans but Shirazi Lobia Poloo is a different one. The difference is the use of cowpea and dill in this food. Shirazi beans are usually served with minced meat or chicken. Shirazi bean pilaf is one of the most popular local dishes in Fars province.
Rob Poloo
Rob Poloo is cooked in Fars province using rice, pomegranate paste, walnuts, raisins, sugar, and onions. This food is meat-free so it is a good choice for vegetarians. Shirazi people eat the meal with Shirazi Salad which is a great combination.
Eshkeneh Shirazi
Also, known as Ab piazak. The chef fries the onion until they get golden brown to cook Ashkeneh Shirazi. At this stage, turmeric and fenugreek are added to the onion and a little water is poured into the dish, and when the water is boiling, eggs and yogurt are added to it, and the food is allowed to cook completely. This food is eaten with bread and pickles.
Havig Poloo
Havig Poloo is one of the sweet foods of Fars that has a good taste and has much nutrition due to the use of carrots. To make it, you need rice, carrots, chicken, saffron, onions, cinnamon, and pistachio slices.
Koofteh Holoo Shirazi
If you love meatballs and bread this food is for you. This food is specific to Fars province and is not like any other meatball. The raw materials of this food consist of minced meat, carrots, eggs, and chickpea flour. You have to mix these ingredients and make meatballs the size of a peach and fry them. You should fill the meatballs with raisins and onions.
There is lots of other local food that you can eat and cook but these meals are the most delicious and famous and heathiest of that you can find.
Top Souvenirs of Fars
Like the food, every region and every city of Iran has its kind of souvenir and handicrafts. Fars is one of the most ancient provinces In Iran. Every city in this area has countless gardens in different shapes and colors but the whole region is famous for its orange trees so, one of the souvenirs is organic sour orange. Another edible souvenir is Faloodeh Shirazi which is a cold dessert. Falloodeh is a noodle shape dessert that can be combined with sweet syrup and traditional ice cream. Faloodeh can be found around Iran but you can buy the best ones in Shiraz. Also, you can find organic sour grape juice and lemon juice.
All cities around Iran has local artists who make souvenir in different colors and shapes. Famous Persian handicrafts include Khatam Kary, kilim (some sort of carpet with an especial design that is mostly produced by tribes), Gabbeh, carpets and rugs, silverwork, Monabt Kary, pottery making, etc.
Khatam Kary
Definition of Khatam Kary in Persian encyclopedia is "The art of decorating the surface of objects in a mosaic-like manner, with small triangles. The various designs of Khatam have always been in the form of regular geometric shapes. These geometric shapes are embossed by placing small triangles next to each other. Triangles are made of wood, metal, and bone. "The smaller and finer the triangles, the better the Khatam is. In a Khatam design, at least three triangles are used to make the smallest geometric unit and up to four hundred triangles for the largest."
Gabbeh
Gabbeh is a type of rug and like carpet weaving, it has a lot of artistic value, so that today it has attracted countless fans all over the world. Some researchers believe that the reason for naming this rug as Gabbeh is its thickness and its use in protection against various factors such as a cold. It can be said that the history of the origin and production of Gabbeh dates back to the time of early humans because they initially used the skins of various animals as their mats and over time and with experience gained the first woolen mats from domestic animals to produce one of the They are Gabbeh.
Monabat Kary
Monabat Kary is a branch of handicrafts in which roles are created prominently on the work surface. Woodcarving is one of the sub-branches of this art and its most common. Of course, in some other wooden arts such as carpentry, toolmaking, and mosaic, similar processes are used, which cannot be mentioned as inlays.
The purest and most special souvenirs of Fars
If you want to buy the purest and most special souvenirs, it is better to visit the market for perfumes in Fars. Shatreh, Bahar Narang, Nastaran, Bidmashk, Taroneh, Mint, Chehelgia, Etraj, Chicory, Lemon Syrup, Narang, Borage, Kialk are some of the most famous and characteristic essences of Shiraz.
Iranian have a traditional medicine that uses natural herbs and essences as its drugs. Each of these essences which I mentioned has a special effect on the body and can help you to live healthier. For example, Bahar Narang has lots of nutrition like; Magnesium, manganese, boron, calcium, zinc, selenium, sodium, copper, potassium, and B, C, and D vitamins. Bahar Narenj Strengthens the nervous system of the body. This essence also quickly reduces nervous headaches and migraines. Other properties of Bahar Narang include strengthening the stomach and relieving anxiety, stress, and irregular heartbeat. Spring orange tea controls seizures as well as heart attacks.
For another example is Bidmeshk. Their properties can be mentioned as analgesic, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, antifungal, antispasmodic, and antioxidant properties. they are aromatic drugs whose aromas can stimulate olfactory nerve receptors and affect the process of hormone production, body temperature, metabolism, and stress hormone levels. The body's defense system affects our emotional and physical thoughts and behaviors. The medicinal plant Bidmeshk, also known as Salix Capri, is a willow plant that has fragrant spikes and has a cold and wet nature.