A Brief History
Yazd often spelled Yezd, is a city in central Iran and the capital of Yazd province. The city was founded in the 5th century CE, and Marco Polo referred to it as the "great city of Yazd." It is located around 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) above sea level in a mostly desolate, sand-covered plain. The climate is entirely desert-like. Yazd is connected to the edge of the adjacent mountain Shir Kuh via a network of qanats (water tunnels).s
Yazd was historically the link between Fars and Khorasan, as well as between Persian Iraq and Kerman, and it was located at the crossroads of trade routes between Central Asia and India. It functioned as the provincial capital and was given the name Dr al-ibada (House of Piety) due to its numerous religious structures. When the Muslim Arabs conquered Iran, some of the city's population were Zoroastrians who fled to Yazd and Kerman. Yazd is now Iran's final stronghold of Zoroastrianism.
Yazd has long been known for its magnificent silk textiles, which were only surpassed in later centuries by those of Kashan and Esfahan. The city is still a major silk weaving center. It features spinning and weaving mills, a water purification and filtration equipment manufacturing company, and significant mining and quarrying activity; local copper deposits are processed at the Sar Cheshmeh facilities. Near the city, almonds, fruit, and some grains are farmed.
The city features many noteworthy mosques and mausoleums dating from the 12th century, in addition to a few remnants of the massive medieval city wall (head of Islam; 1035). The highest minarets in Iran, mosaic faience (earthenware ceramics), a magnificent mihrab (pulpit) dated 1375, and two Gothic oratories distinguish the Masjed-e Jomeh (Friday Mosque). Some of the city's other mosques and mausoleums have delicate and rich stucco relief or are polychromed in pastel blue, rose, and yellow tones.
The skyline is beautiful, with minarets and many tall towers that were built to carry cool air from below into the chambers of the structures. Yazd has road and rail connections to Kerman, Qom, Esfahan, and Tehran, as well as an airport.
Agriculture has dominated the economy of the region around Yazd, which has been developed via the construction of farm enterprises and agricultural product processing centers. Wheat, barley, cotton, oilseeds, indigo plants, fruits, and vegetables are among the main crops farmed. The population of the city was 432,194 in 2006, and 486,152 in 2011.
Climate and weather
The whole city is located in the desert. So, it is reasonable to feel hot and dry weather. But we will describe Yazd weather monthly.
January
In Yazd, Iran, January is a chilly winter month, with average temperatures ranging from 11.1°C (52°F) to 2.4°C (36.3°F). January is the coldest month, with an average high temperature of 11.1°C (52°F) and a low temperature of 2.4°C (36.3°F).
February
In Yazd, February, the penultimate month of winter, is likewise a cool month, with average temperatures ranging from 12.9°C (55.2°F) to 4°C (39.2°F). The average high temperature in Yazd, Iran, is nearly the same as it was in January, at 12.9°C (55.2°F).
March
In Yazd, Iran, the first month of spring, March, is a pleasant month, with average temperatures ranging from 18.5°C (65.3°F) to 8.9°C (48°F). The average high temperature in Yazd, Iran, goes from a mild 12.9°C (55.2°F) in February to a pleasant 18.5°C (65.3°F).
April
April in Yazd, Iran, is a nice spring month, with temperatures averaging 14.3°C (57.7°F) for the low and 22.9°C (73.2°F) for the high. The average high temperature in Yazd rises slightly in April, from a pleasant 18.5°C (65.3°F) in March to a pleasant 22.9°C (73.2°F).
May
May is a moderately hot month in Yazd, Iran, with temperatures averaging 28.5°C (83.3°F) for the high and 19.8°C (67.6°F) for the low. From an acceptable 22.9°C (73.2°F) in April to a moderately hot 28.5°C (83.3°F) in May, the average high-temperature rises.
June
June, the first month of summer, is hot in Yazd, with temperatures averaging 24°C (75.2°F) for the low and 33.8°C (92.8°F) for the high. The average high temperature in Yazd goes from a pleasant 28.5°C (83.3°F) in May to a scorching 33.8°C (92.8°F) in June.
July
In Yazd, Iran, July is a hot summer month, with average temperatures ranging from 35.2°C (95.4°F) to 24.9°C (76.8°F). July is the hottest month, with average high temperatures of 35.2°C (95.4°F) and low temperatures of 24.9°C (76.8°F).
August
August, the penultimate month of the summer, is another warm month in Yazd, Iran, with temperatures ranging from 23.1°C (73.6°F) to 33.3°C (91.9°F). The average high temperature in Yazd in August is practically identical to that of July, at 33.3°C (91.9°F).
September
In Yazd, Iran, the first month of autumn, September, is still a tropical month, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). In Yazd, the average high temperature drops slightly from 33.3°C (91.9°F) in August to a still-warm 30°C (86°F) in September.
October
October, like September, is a warm autumn month in Yazd, Iran, with average temperatures ranging from 14.5°C (58.1°F) to 23.9°C (75°F). The average high temperature in October drops from a scorching 30°C (86°F) in September to a pleasant 23.9°C (75°F).
November
November, the last month of autumn, is also pleasant in Yazd, with average temperatures ranging from 6.7°C (44.1°F) to 15.5°C (59.9°F). The average high temperature in November drops dramatically from a relatively hot 23.9°C (75°F) in October to a mild 15.5°C (59.9°F).
December
December, the first month of winter, is still chilly in Yazd, with temperatures averaging 3.5°C (38.3°F) for the low and 12.3°C (54.1°F) for the high. The average high temperature in Yazd drops slightly from 15.5°C (59.9°F) in November to 12.3°C (54.1°F) in December.
When to Go to Yazd?
All travelers say that knowing the weather prediction for their location is one of the most important things to know before going on a trip since it helps them pack properly. You need also to know the days in your destination to design a day-by-day tour. As a result, because Yazd is one of the must-see towns in Persia, weather information for Yazd is quite useful for all visitors to Iran.
The greatest time to visit Yazd is between early March and the end of April when spring is at its most beautiful. As a result, the weather in Yazd is pleasant during this time, and you may enjoy strolling through the twisting alleys of Yazd's Historic City. Although the oppressive summer heat will not bother you in the spring, Yazd is highly congested, and the hotels are packed with tourists. As a result, you must schedule your tour services ahead of time. Please keep in mind that you will be subjected to the hustle and bustle of Nowruz (March 20th to April 1st or later).
The weather in Yazd is particularly pleasant from the end of September to the end of November, actually, I think that this is the greatest time to visit. As a result, autumn is a good time to visit Yazd because it is both gorgeous and less congested. Furthermore, in the city of Yazd and adjacent villages such as Mehriz, Taft, and Abarkooh, you may see pomegranate trees that give fruit in the autumn.
Saffron also blooms in early October, leaving a purple carpet across the fields. Pistachio is also a lovely autumn product of Yazd, and it's fun to visit its gardens. The greatest time to visit the Yazd deserts, on the other hand, is in the autumn when the temperature is pleasant. You can create wonderful moments by sitting around a fire at night and camping in the deserts near Yazd. Insects and dangerous desert creatures such as snakes and scorpions also hibernate in the autumn and are no longer a threat to desert visitors.
Yazd's climate is chilly and dry in the winter due to its location in the desert. As a result, winter is not the best time to visit Yazd. However, Yazd is Iran's most prominent Zoroastrian city, and the Zoroastrians hold various ceremonies throughout the year. The most prominent of these events, Sadeh, is celebrated in the winter.
Summer in Yazd is hot and dry; therefore June, July, and August are not the best months to visit this historic city. You may also be bothered by the heat between May and September. The summer season, on the other hand, has the lowest travel costs.
Recommended month for traveling to Yazd Province
SEPTEMBER, OCTOBER, NOVEMBER
Where to Go in Yazd?
Yazd
Yazd, an adobe city located between the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut deserts, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iran. Yazd's most notable features include winding alleys, wind catchers, mud-brick buildings with wooden doors, and historic Qanats. It's worth noting that Yazd's adobe architecture, in addition to being beautiful, is also a solution to environmental problems. Furthermore, the people of Yazd are friendly, and the desert dwellers who reside in the nearby villages have maintained their traditional way of life. In addition, Yazd is the home of Zoroastrians. As a result, there are several historical structures and traditions associated with the Zoroastrian religion.
Ardakan city
The city of Yazd is the capital of the vast province of Yazd and is ranked first in terms of size and population density. The second rank, both in terms of size and population density among the cities of this beautiful province belongs to the historical city of Ardakan. Ardakan, which is the center of Ardakan city, is a city where history seems to stop in its corners and watch the passers-by. These are called Ardakan brick buildings and high alleys and roofs that have remained intact for several years. A land with rich mines, which is the center of steel production and ceramic industries of the country, and its delicious pistachio and halva orchards are well-known. But Ardakan has a place for Zoroastrians in Iran and around the world. Pir Sabz Chek Shrine in the heart of Ardakan Mountains is one of the most important shrines in Ardakan, which hosts Zoroastrians every year in June.
Meybod city
The second commercial and urban city of Yazd province is Meybod, which is famous for being the center of Iranian ceramic tiles. The city of beautiful and eye-catching pottery, which in the last few years has succeeded in registering its simple and artistic Zillow to the world record and perpetuating its name as the world city of Zillow. Meybod is one of the richest cities in Iran due to its many ancient and historical monuments, which host many domestic and foreign tourists every year.
Bafgh
Undoubtedly, another attractive city in Yazd province is the beautiful city of Bafgh. A city that is located in the middle of the desert and its enchanting desert views are famous and special. It may be a little difficult to imagine a grove in this desert city, but you must have heard about the reputation of high-quality Bafgh dates and tasted these delicious dates. Bafgh, like other desert cities of Yazd, is full of historical and valuable monuments.
Mehriz
The second most popular city in Yazd province is the beautiful city of Mehriz. Mehriz due to the proximity of Shirkuh compared to other parts of the province in its mountainous part has a mild and temperate climate, but its dry and desert part is like other desert areas. This city is one of the most beautiful cities in Yazd province with its many orchards of pistachios, almonds, figs, walnuts, and apricots. Mehriz city is one of the most water-rich cities in the province with its beautiful and salty springs, which supply water to nearby cities and lands to some extent through aqueducts. This city has a long history and some attribute its founding to Mehrnegar, the daughter of the Sassanid king. One of the top attractions of Mehriz is the beautiful Pahlavanpour Garden, which is one of the Iranian gardens registered by UNESCO and belongs to the Qajar period.
Shahdieh
Shahdieh is one of the cities of Yazd city with beautiful pomegranate orchards, memorable garden alleys, water reservoirs and caravanserais, and historical houses which are located near Yazd city. Aberandabad historical castle, Shahdieh historical caravanserai, and Baghistan mosque are other historical and spectacular monuments of Shahdieh.
Jameh Mosque of Yazd
Possibly the most important. Yazd is known for its peaceful coexistence of Muslims and Zoroastrians, as seen by the proximity of mosques and fire temples. So, not far from the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, the most significant mosque in Yazd, Jameh Mosque (Friday Mosque), is in the old city. Around 800 years ago, this architectural wonder was built on the site of a Sassanid fire temple.
Jame mosque is a popular tourist destination in Yazd because of its unusual architecture, tall entry portals, and two tall minarets.
The minarets of the Yazd Grand Mosque, which stand at a height of roughly 52 meters and can be seen from outside the city, are among the world's tallest minarets. Other elements of this masterpiece of art include calligraphy, scenic plaster, amazing azure tile works, an attractive courtyard, and Iwans, a charming dome.
Alexander's Prison (Ziaeye School)
Alexander's Prison is a well-known medieval school with a strange past, dating from the eighth century. The term "Alexander's Prison" is derived from a passage in one of Hafez's poems.
There is no ornamentation such as tile works in this monument, and the sole material utilized to construct this simple and magnificent structure is raw clay.
Alexander's Prison, like most of Yazd's attractions, is fashioned of clay and boasts a tall windcatcher. However, a small number of embellishments, such as gold and azure watercolor paintings, were added to its 18-meter-high dome, with just the white plaster components visible. There is a large hole in this monument that was once thought to be a dungeon built by Alexander the Great. However, following additional research, it was discovered that the hole was created during the construction of an ancient underground water pipe network.
Amir Chakhmaq Complex
The Amir chakhmaq Complex's oldest structure is the Amir chachmaq Mosque, also known as New Jame Mosque. It is the second most significant mosque in Yazd, after the Jame Mosque, and is located to the south of the square. The mosque has two entrances: one from the nearby alley and the other from the Sati Fatima mausoleum's courtyard. In addition, the mosque is divided into two sections: winter and summer. There is an entrance corridor in the winter section that is lit by daylight reflecting off the marble walls. On the other hand, there is a lovely windcatcher over the altar in the summer section.
Yazd water museum
The Water Museum, located on the northern side of Amir Chakhmaq Square, houses a collection of historic water-related artifacts. Photographs, artifacts, and architectural designs are on display in the museum to show how desert nomads obtained their water. You may also monitor the status of individuals working on aqueducts. Finally, all of the aforementioned items, as well as a visible qanat running beneath the structure, make this museum one of Yazd's most valuable attractions.
Zoroastrian fire temple
The Zoroastrian fire temple is a place of devotion where a sacred fire is kept in a unique spot. As a result, the most essential religious rituals, such as reading the sacred scriptures, are performed in front of a fire. The Yazd Fire Temple is one of these temples, and it is the most revered by Zoroastrians. It was built during the first Pahlavi era. Furthermore, this location is one of the most prominent Yazd tourist attractions because of the Fire, which is said to have burnt constantly for 1500 years. The sacred fire room is located in the center of the edifice, surrounded by prayer rooms.
Dowlat Abad Gardens
Dowlat Abad Gardens is one of Yazd's most popular attractions and one of the oldest Persian gardens with international renown. The garden has been designated as a World UNESCO Heritage Site and is over 260 years old. There is a sign of paradise on every corner of the 6.4-hectare Dowlat Abad garden. Fruit trees, cypress, pine, and flowers abound in the garden. We arrive at the famous mansion, which has the world's tallest windcatcher, at the end of the tree lines and the long pool.
The lanterns light up when the sun sets, changing the ambiance of the garden. During the evening, the lighting of the entire garden and the windcatcher is quite fascinating.
The old city of Yazd
The adobe city of Yazd, a living UNESCO Site, is formed by winding alleys going through a forest of wind catchers and mud-brick buildings. Wandering through maze-like adobe lanes, seeing locals who have maintained their traditional way of life, and photographing the lovely adobe houses with wooden doors are all activities that draw many tourists to Yazd. On the other hand, this city is a living example of how few resources may be used to survive in the desert's inhospitable climate and arid nature.
As a result, desert residents used the mud-brick building to escape Yazd's hot and arid atmosphere. In other words, Yazd depicts the desert's long-term adobe architecture. This type of architecture is also a solution to environmental crises, in addition to being beautiful.
Saheb A Zaman Zurkhaneh
Zurkhaneh is a typical Iranian gym where you may see athletes compete. The workouts and performances take place in a hexagonal recessed area called "Gowd" in the saloon's center. The athletes all dress alike and perform synchronized exercises to a set cadence, while the audience watches from the stone benches surrounding the Gowd. It's worth noting that Iran's "Pahlevani and Zoorkhanei Rituals" have been added to the Representative List of Humanity's Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The Saheb a Zaman Zurkhaneh, which is part of the Amir Chakhmagh Complex, is one of the must-see Yazd attractions. Furthermore, it is located in an ancient water reservoir that dates back around 500 years and is open to the public. In the end, It's worth noting that the shows last anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour. On Fridays, the zurkhaneh exercises and entertainment are not done.
Zoroastrian Towers of Silence (Zoroastrian’s Dakhmeh)
The ancient Zoroastrians used the Towers of Silence, also known as Dakhmeh, as a graveyard for their ancestors. They did not, however, bury the remains to avoid contaminating the land. Instead, they left the bodies out in the open for birds and predators to feast on. Dakhmeh was built far away from population centers to allow predators easy access. It's intriguing to go around the cylinder-shaped tower and experience the old monument's strange and mysterious aura. Some tourists claim to be able to hear the silence. Although there are multiple Dakhmeh in various towns throughout Iran, the Yazd Towers of Silence are the most important and must-see Yazd attractions.
Finally, the variety of decorations, materials, and colors represent the reconstructions of the Jameh mosque over time.
Yazd Khan Bazaar
One of the most prominent Yazd attractions is the Khan Bazaar, which is a live market. During the Afsharid and Qajar periods, this ancient bazaar in Yazd's historical center was created. With a length of 274 meters and a width of around 5 meters, the Khan Bazaar contains multiple Bazaarcheh (little bazaars), Timcheh, and passageways. As a result, this market serves as a commercial hub for Termeh, copper works, various types of sweets, and so on. This bazaar is also historically and architecturally significant. As a result, you may spend a few hours meandering through this area, meeting residents, and purchasing Iran souvenirs.
Lariha House
One of the most attractive Yazd attractions is Lariha House, which has an area of roughly 1700 square meters and is located in the Fahadan neighborhood. This historical home was erected in 1869 during the Qajar Era for Hadji Mohammad Ebrahim Lari. Tall windcatchers, exquisite archways, delicate plaster works, and gorgeous stained-glass windows are among the features of Lariha House, which comprises six residences with unique architecture and decorating.
Top Dishes in Yazd
Iranian cuisine is legendary, from fluffy saffron rice with delicious kebabs to mouth-watering stews stewed to perfection. Dishes are likewise diverse, as local delicacies can be found in whatever city you visit. Check out the top five must-try Yazd meals and where to get them when you are there.
Shuli
"Have you tried Shuli?" is a question that every Yazdi will ask you when you visit their city. This vegan-friendly soup, made with white beets and celery, is the pride and joy of the city. Yazdis will swear that you haven't had real Shuli until you've had it made at home (which is probably true), but the one at the Silk Road Hotel is a fantastic comfort dish and an excellent spot to taste it if you don't have the chance to have it at home.
Tas Kabab Shotor
I hadn't gone vegan yet when I tried this for the first time. Even yet, I felt a feeling of guilt while eating it, as if I'd been vegan the whole time. Tâs kebab-e shotor [camel meat stew with potatoes] is a local specialty for the rest of you who want to experience local food. Camel meat is popular in the winter and served with bread because it is considered a "warm" dish. The Silk Road Hotel serves this meal as well.
Yazdi Sweets
Shirini (sweets) come to mind when you think about Yazd, particularly pashmak (sugar floss) and baklava, which is heavier than other types and famed for its lozi (diamond) shape. Yazd is also known for its ghotab (doughnut-shaped cookies). Near Amir Chaghmagh Square, across the street from the Water Museum, lies Haj Khalifeh, possibly Yazd's most famous confectionary, where you can sample everything, the city has to offer. Mix and blend your personal favorites to take home or give as a gift!
Yazdi tea
A scorching hot mug of tea is the best way to wash down Yazdi delicacies. There's always black tea, but there's also damnoosh (herbal tea). Yazdi damnoosh contains golgâvzabun (borage tea) and bâbuneh (camomile).
Yazdi cupcake
Cupcakes are known in Iran as cake Yazdi. They're frequently sprinkled with chopped pistachios and softly sweetened with a hint of rosewater and cardamom. They're commonly accessible throughout Iran, so why not sample the actual thing in the city that bears its name?
Top Souvenirs of Yazd
Yazd souvenirs include carpets with attractive patterns, pileless carpets, tirma (a type of cashmere), brocaded silk, velvet, blankets, bed-cloths, clayware, engraving, glassware, and leatherware, to name a few. These handicrafts are perfect for keeping as keepsakes because they are delicate and attractive. Yazd is also noted for its sweets, with Pashmak (cotton candy), Baqlava, and Qotab being the most well-known.
Edible Souvenir
Yazdi cupcake
Yazdi cake is one of the province's most well-known specialties, which can now be found in most Iranian towns' confectioneries; however, if you want the best, you need to travel to Yazd.
Baklava
It may be argued that Yazd Baklava is the most important sweet in this region, with exports to a variety of countries in the region, as well as Europe, Canada, and the United States. In Yazd, baklava is made in a variety of tastes and is regarded as a very filling and energizing supper.
Ardakan sesame pudding
Sheikh Baha'i is credited with the creation of Halvah Ardeh (sesame pudding), and it is thought that Shah Abbas followed a suitable diet for his soldiers that met the following criteria: first, it had to be tense and energetic; second, it had to be easy to transport; and third, it had to be suitable for war conditions; and there was no need to heat it before eating it. Following this, Sheikh Baha'i created what is today known as Halva Ardeh in partnership with the experts of the period. This sweet and delectable dish has been served on the Iranian table for quite some time. Ardakan Halvah Ardeh, one of the most popular souvenirs, is one of the best examples.
Qottab
Perhaps there are sweets such as Qottab, which has been dubbed Yazd's "sweet capital." Qottab is so rich in Yazd culture that it has been recognized as part of the country's intangible heritage.
Rice bread
Delicious Rice Bread is also available in Yazd, in addition to Kermanshah, and comes in two flavors: plain and with saffron. Rice bread may be the best alternative for you if you want to buy cookies.
Yazd lovuez
Another Yazd sweetener is Lovuez, which comes in a variety of flavors, including Coconut Lovuez, Almond Lovuez, and Bustard Lovuez, and may be found in several Yazd cities.
Haji Baadoomi
Haji Badoomi is a sweetener made from wheat flour, almonds, sugar powder, saffron, egg yolks, and nutmeg that is baked.
Noghl
One of the most popular tea companions is Noghl. In Yazd, Noghl comes in a variety of flavors and is sold as a souvenir. These delectable Noghl come in a variety of flavors and nuts.
Handicrafts
Pottery and ceramics
Meybod, one of Iran's largest producers of pottery and ceramics, is located in the Yazd region. Simple pottery without glazes and ceramic tiles are examples of this type of pottery.
Darayi bafi
Darai bafi is a historic Yazd Iranian handcraft that is now forgotten and hard to come by in the alleys and bazaars of Yazd. Yazd's Darai bafi, which dates back 800 years, is a silk fabric with natural hues. Darai bafi fabrics were only exclusively available to individuals who possessed financial responsibility. Property tufts were once used for curtains, cufflinks, and crocheted needles, but now they're generally utilized for tablecloths and tablecloths.
Termeh
Termeh, also known as termeh bafi, is a 400-year-old weaving technique. It was used by the Zoroastrians to sew their festival trousers. Silk and yarn, wool, or fluff are used to make Termeh. Weaving Termeh used to be done by hand, and it was known as a handcrafted cloth, but it was later done midway and with specific devices.
Sher bafi
Sher bafi is another traditional Yazd art form that has flourished in recent years. Originally, this technique was performed by women on wooden instruments to aid home economics, but with time, it evolved into a workshop, and males became involved as well. This lovely and traditional art has been lost to time.
Zilu
Zilu, one of Yazd's oldest crafts, dates back to pre-Islamic times. Iran's goods have also included Zilu. The city of Meybod in Yazd is one of the most important Zilu weaving locations, and the oldest Zilu is currently linked to this area and may be seen in the mosque in Meybod.