Saadiyeh Complex: A Tribute to Saadi’s Legacy

Shiraz is one of the tourist hubs of Iran, and it is also known as the city of poetry and literature. One of the most beautiful places in Shiraz is the Saadiyeh Complex, a famous Iranian poet whose poems and sonnets are still admired and noticed by everyone.

Saadi Shirazi, Sheikh-e-Ajal, or master of Persian speech, was a poet of Hijri’s 6th and 7th centuries who undeniably impacted the Persian language. In this article, we will learn more about the Tomb of Saadi and get to know the Saadiyeh complex in Shiraz better.

Where Is The Saadiyeh Complex?

The tomb of Saadi Shirazi, a brilliant turquoise gem among the tombs of Iranian poets, is a beautiful site and a place of great historical significance. It is located in one of the most charming areas of Shiraz, at the end of Bostan Street and right next to the historic Delgosha Garden.

The Saadiyeh Complex is conveniently located in District 3 of Shiraz, in the Neyestan neighborhood. Neyestan is home to some of the city’s most stunning sights. The ancient Delgosha Garden and Tawusiyeh Garden, next to the tomb of Saadi, offer the opportunity to explore multiple Shiraz attractions on one trip.

Who Was Saadi Shirazi?

There are probably few people in Iran who have not heard the name of Saadi, the master of speech, a title he earned for his unparalleled command over language and ability to move hearts with his words. However, it is also worth getting acquainted with the biography of Saadi or ‘Muslih al-Din Abu Muhammad Abd-Allah ibn Musharrif.

This master of speech, Saadi, spent his formative years in the Nizamieh of Baghdad. His journey took him to Syria and Hijaz as a preacher. However, it was a significant decision when he finally chose to return to his beloved hometown, Shiraz, where he would spend the rest of his life.

Most of the details of Saadi’s life have been collected based on guesswork from the study of his works. Saadi Shirazi was probably born between 585 and 615, during the Islamic Golden Age, and died between 690 and 695 AH, at the age of 88.

This renowned poet, Saadi, was a polymath with a deep understanding of various sciences. His intellectual prowess spanned philosophy, literature, jurisprudence, theology, and wisdom. His comprehensive knowledge is reflected in his invaluable works, including two books, Bostan and Golestan.

Of course, Saadi’s works are not limited to these two books; Saadi Tarjieband has also written many quatrains, pieces, ghazals, and odes.

Shiraz’s Saadiyeh Complex Architecture

As we gaze upon Saadi’s tomb, we are captivated by its unique blend of modern and traditional Iranian architecture. Inspired by the Chehel Sotoon Palace, the design is a testament to the architect’s ingenuity in merging the old with the new.

This magnificent building was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of Mohsen Foroughi, an Iranian modernist architect, and Ali Akbar Sadegh. The tomb’s construction commenced in 1328, culminating in its grand opening in May 1331.

The building, spanning ​​257 square meters, is structured around a porch with eight columns and a spacious hall. The intersection of these two spaces marks the location of Saadi’s tomb. At the end of the hall, we encounter the tomb of Shurideh Shirazi, a renowned poet from the Safavid period.

The main building where Saadi’s tomb is located, though appearing as a cube from the outside, unfolds into an octagon within. Saadi’s tombstone, a solemn centerpiece, is surrounded by tiled inscriptions on its four sides. These inscriptions, adorned with Saadi’s poetic verses, are a testament to the beauty of his literary legacy.

Ibrahim Abu Zari‘s inscriptions were carefully selected from Saadi’s renowned works-Golestan, Bostan, Bada’i, and Tayabat Saadi. Like whispers from the past, these inscriptions bring to life Saadi’s tomb’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Different Parts of The Saadiyeh Complex in Shiraz

The Saadiyeh Complex in Shiraz is a treasure trove of various parts. In addition to the library, garden, porch, and main building, this complex has other parts waiting to be explored. We encourage you to visit all these parts and embark on an adventurous journey of discovery.

One of the most significant parts of the Saadiyeh Complex is the tomb of famous poets, including Shurideh Shirazi. This historical site within the complex is a must-see for any cultural enthusiast.

The two coin and fish ponds and the mysterious aqueduct are among the most captivating parts of Saadiyeh. These three parts, located in the southwest of ​​the Saadiyeh Complex , are beautiful and hold a mystery many visitors find intriguing and exciting.

Saadi tomb in Shiraz is one of the city’s most beautiful and spectacular buildings. It is also considered an architectural masterpiece, as it is the burial place of one of Iran’s greatest poets.

It may be interesting to know that the image of the Saadiyeh monument has been on the 50 Iranian Rials coins of Iran for a long time and now on the 100,000 Iranian Rials banknotes.

Sightseeing Places in Shiraz near The Saadiyeh Complex

As mentioned, the Saadiyeh Complex is in one of Shiraz’s old neighborhoods, and there are other interesting places nearby.

• Tomb of Hafez: If we want to name the most spectacular place near Sadie, we should say Tomb of Hafez in Shiraz. The distance between these two tombs is only about 5 minutes by car. It is enough to enter Shiraz Street from Bostan Blvd., and after traveling about 4 km, enter Chehel Maqam Blvd. to reach the Tomb of Hafez or Hāfezieh.

• Delgosha Garden: A historical gem from the Sassanid period, Delgosha Garden is a stone’s throw away from the shrine. This garden, which has stood the test of time from the Safavid to the Qajar eras, was a significant part of Shiraz’s history. Numerous European travelers have lauded its antiquity and grandeur.

• Sassanid Fahandej Castle: This castle, a relic from the Achaemenid period, is in front of Delgosha Garden. Fahandej Castle, known as “Tirazis” during the Achaemenid period, is a direct link to the ancient history of Shiraz. According to old sources, the artists and builders of Persepolis lived in this fortress, adding to its historical significance.

FAQs About Visiting the Saadiyeh Complex