History Uncovered at the Former US Embassy in Tehran
Former US Embassy in Tehran that Turned into a Museum
The former US embassy in Tehran has now become a museum called the Garden of Arrogance Museum or 13 Aban Museum. This historical place is attractive to foreign tourists, and taking photos with its walls is one of their most important activities in Tehran. Of course, only a part of the embassy building can be visited.
After entering the building, we go up the stairs to the second floor, which contains several large rooms. All over the corridor are photos and writings from the days of the embassy’s occupation in 1979, with explanations in both Persian and English.
A part of telecommunication and satellite equipment is displayed in a particular room. Most of the visitors to this museum are foreign tourists.
Contents
The History of the Former US Embassy
The American embassy in Tehran, the only political representation of the United States of America in Iran before the occupation, is a grand structure. Today, it is open to the public under the name ‘13 Aban Museum‘. It is located at the intersection of Mofatteh and Taleghani streets, occupying a vast land of 44 thousand square meters.
The architect of this 1948 embassy building was Van Der Gracht, who also designed the American Embassy in Ankara. The building’s design was nicknamed “Hendersons” by its staff due to its similarity to the design of American high schools in the 1930s and 1940s.
“Hendersons” is slang for “Henderson High School” in American English, and Levi Henderson was the name of the American ambassador when the embassy was built in 1951. New buildings have been built inside the embassy premises, and most of the embassy buildings have been changed.
Different Parts of the 13 Aban Museum or the Former US Embassy
The construction of the Former US Embassy in Tehran was completed in 1951. In 1985, the then government decided to give the spy nest to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Upon entering the embassy building, the museum guides invite you to watch a documentary.
A documentary called “Nest in Crisis” is made from archival films and interviews with students who participated in the seizure of the embassy.
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The first place you come across in the museum is the bubble or glass room. The body of this room is double-walled and made of transparent plastic. The air discharged from between the walls of the room body prevented sound transmission to the outside.
The walls outside the room are covered with aluminum foils to prevent eavesdropping on meetings and sending frequencies by creating noise on the possible embedded device. This room was used to hold important security meetings to prevent eavesdropping.
Sightseeing Places and Critical Facilities Near the Former US Embassy in Tehran
| Nearby Restaurants | |
| Original Golpayegani Kebab | 225 m |
| Haft Khan Shandiz Restaurant | 229 m |
| Gallery Cafe | 234 m |
| Cafe Rata | 245 m |
| Nearby Hotels | |
| Mashhad Hotel in Tehran | 255 m |
| Business Safir Hotel | 333 m |
| Forsat accommodation hotel | 397 m |
| Alvand accommodation hotel | 433 m |
| Nearby Sightseeing Places | |
| Martyrs Museum | 196 m |
| Greek Orthodox Church (Saint Mary) | 277 m |
| Church of St. Nicholas | 284 m |
| Association of Iranian Artists (House of Artists) | 294 m |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Garden of Arrogance Museum is more than just a historical site; it stands as a living reminder of a transformative chapter in Iran’s history and its relations with the world. The museum’s carefully preserved exhibits, including photographs, writings, and telecommunications equipment, provide a window into the events surrounding the 1979 embassy occupation, allowing visitors to engage deeply with the narrative from multiple perspectives.
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The museum is particularly compelling for foreign tourists, as it offers an opportunity to explore a significant episode that has left a lasting impact on global political discourse. The bilingual explanations ensure accessibility and inclusivity, enriching the experience for a diverse audience. Beyond its educational value, the museum invites reflection on themes of resistance, diplomacy, and the evolution of international relations.
The carefully curated exhibits and the symbolic significance of the building transform a static space into a dynamic platform for learning, dialogue, and cultural exchange. Visitors are drawn to the museum’s historical content and iconic walls, where photography has become a ritual that bridges past and present. In this way, the Garden of Arrogance Museum serves as both a repository of memory and a space for ongoing cultural interaction, highlighting the enduring relevance of history in shaping contemporary narratives.
FAQs about Visiting the Former US Embassy in Tehran
Where is the Former US Embassy in Tehran?
The Former US Embassy in Tehran is at the intersection of Mofatteh and Taleghani streets.
What is the name of the Former US Embassy now?
This Former Embassy is now known as the 13 Aban Museum or the Garden Museum of Arrogance.
During the week, in what time intervals will this former Embassy host visitors?
To find out the visiting hours of this former embassy, you should call the museum numbers and get enough information.
