Afif Abad Garden: A Historic Oasis in Shiraz
Afif Abad Garden: A Must-See in Shiraz
Afif Abad Garden ranks as one of the most beautiful historic gardens in Shiraz. During the Safavid period, it served as an important retreat and leisure destination for kings. The garden perfectly demonstrates Iranian floral artistry.
Mirza Ali Mohammad Khan Qavam al-Mulk II built the garden complex. It sits in one of Shiraz’s upscale neighborhoods and features a royal palace, an antique arms museum, and an Iranian garden—all open to the public.
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Architecture
This garden stands among the oldest in Shiraz and preserves its timeless simplicity. The main gate displays four simple gypsum columns whose capitals draw inspiration from those at Persepolis. The gate’s facade features two lion motifs that seem to grip the door with their paws.
After passing through the door, a corridor connects visitors to the main garden area. On the opposite side of the door and above the corridor’s entrance, one notices design elements reminiscent of a Sasanian king’s coronation hall.
The building’s façade displays a mosaic of a Sasanian king’s coronation, decorated with tiles. The main section lies on the north side and becomes accessible via a stone staircase leading to a covered hall.
The east façade features a large, beautiful iwan that stretches along the entire structure. The west façade remains very simple. The south iwan follows the same decorative style as its northern counterpart.
In front of the mansion’s grand iwan, four tall columns stand, and the roof is covered with wooden panels. The capitals of these columns showcase gypsum ornamentation inspired by Persepolis designs. A large pool sits at the front of the building, marking the start of the garden’s main pathway.
The History of Afif-Abad Garden
Covering 127,000 square meters, Afif Abad Garden is among Iran’s most cherished historical gardens. Originally constructed as a royal estate for Safavid rulers, it was later acquired and restored by Mirza Ali Khan Qavam al-Molk during the Qajar period. In 1867, a magnificent two-story mansion replaced the former Golshan Fortress at the garden’s core.
During the Pahlavi era, the estate was gifted to Farah Pahlavi before being acquired by the Iranian military in 1961. Over the course of seven years, it was meticulously restored with influences from Versailles Palace. Since April 18, 1991, Afif Abad has functioned as Iran’s Military Museum, welcoming public visitors. Officially registered as a national heritage site in 1972, the garden remains a well-preserved landmark, drawing both local and international tourists.
Highlights of Afif-Abad Garden
The Grand Mansion
The two-story palace at the heart of Afif Abad Garden features an architectural fusion of Achaemenid, Sassanid, and Qajar styles. It consists of 30 intricately designed rooms, connected through elegant hallways that reflect Iran’s rich cultural heritage.
Main Entrance
The northern entrance is framed by Persian-style columns, reminiscent of Persepolis.
Ceiling Artwork
The wooden ceilings are adorned with exquisite oil paintings showcasing Persian themes.
Balconies & Terraces
The eastern facade features a spacious balcony, while two smaller terraces with eight classical columns each add to the grandeur.
Interior Hallways
The corridors, lined with Persian carpets and ornate chandeliers, evoke a sense of royal splendor.
Military Museum
In this museum, a diverse collection of cold and hot weapons is preserved. It includes automatic and semi-automatic arms, various swords, armors, spears, helmets, shields, different types of matchlock guns, mace stones, hunting rifles, pistols, and several types of machine guns.
Among the museum’s prized pieces are the personal firearms of Fath-Ali Shah, Nasser al-Din Shah, Mozafar al-Din Shah, Reza Shah, and Mohammad Reza Shah. The collection also features the arms of the Jungle Movement fighters and the water reservoir machine gun of Raees Ali Delavari.
Museum of Royal Artifacts
The second floor, known as the Museum of Royal Artifacts, preserves the personal belongings of the Pahlavi dynasty, offering a glimpse into royal life.
- Intricately woven Persian carpets
- Luxurious antique furniture
- Farah Pahlavi’s grand piano
- Exclusive rooms for royal gatherings, gambling, and leisure
- Rare paintings and decorative pieces from the Qajar and Pahlavi periods
The Persian Garden & Traditional Tea House
Afif Abad Garden is a beautiful reflection of Persian landscape design, offering a peaceful retreat filled with towering cypress trees, colorful flowerbeds, and soothing water features.
Each season brings its own charm. Spring fills the air with the sweet scent of orange blossoms, while autumn transforms the garden into a golden paradise.
In the western wing, a traditional tea house with brick walls stands as a reminder of the past, once a favored spot for Qajar princes to unwind.
The gentle flow of fountains and ponds adds to the garden’s calm atmosphere, making it a perfect place for quiet reflection.
The Historic Bathhouse
The traditional bathhouse at Afif Abad Garden reflects Iranian bathing customs, similar to the renowned Vakil Bathhouse in Shiraz and Ganjali Khan Bathhouse in Kerman.
- Two separate pools for hot and cold water
- Hand-painted murals depicting Persian folklore
- Ventilation system featuring a chimney and dome
- Elaborate Persian tilework that enhances the ambiance
Visitor Amenities
To ensure a comfortable experience, Afif Abad Garden provides various modern amenities:
- Cafés and traditional Persian restaurants
- Bookshops and souvenir stores
- Handicraft stalls selling Persian artwork
- Photography booths featuring traditional Persian attire
- Shaded seating areas for rest and relaxation
Visiting Hours & Ticket Prices
- Spring & Summer: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Autumn & Winter: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Ticket Prices
- Domestic visitors: 5,000 Tomans
- International tourists: 50,000 Tomans
Book Shiraz Hotels
How to Get to Afif Abad Garden
- Address: Afif Abad Street, Shiraz, Fars Province, Iran
- By Metro: Take the Avini Metro Station, then a taxi to Afif-Abad
- By Bus: Board a bus to Esteghlal Boulevard, get off at Zerehi Station, and walk to the garden
- By Taxi/Car: Easily accessible via Afif-Abad Street
Afif Abad Garden Location
The Perfect Escape for Every Mood
Whether you seek a peaceful retreat after a long day, wish to celebrate with a picnic, or enjoy a sunset stroll among fragrant gardens, Afif Abad Garden provides an idyllic setting. With its historical grandeur, stunning landscapes, and cultural richness, it remains one of Shiraz’s must-visit attractions.
While spring offers the most breathtaking scenery, early mornings are perfect for those wanting a quieter experience. Regardless of the season, Afif Abad Garden is a timeless sanctuary, perfect for relaxation, exploration, and appreciation of Persian heritage.
For those seeking a serene escape, Afif Abad Garden in Shiraz offers a mesmerizing blend of history, nature, and culture. Also known as Golshan Garden, this historical site greets visitors with towering trees, vibrant flowerbeds, and an inviting atmosphere. A quick glance at its picturesque views will instantly showcase its charm and beauty.
As part of OrientTrips‘ travel guide, this article provides a thorough exploration of Afif Abad Garden, detailing its historical significance, architectural grandeur, and top attractions. Built during the Safavid era, the garden has undergone multiple transformations and now serves as both a military museum and a renowned tourist destination.
With its ornate mansion, lush landscapes, and tranquil ambiance, Afif Abad Garden is an ideal location for photography, cultural discovery, and relaxation.
The History of Afif-Abad Garden
Covering 127,000 square meters, Afif Abad Garden is among Iran’s most cherished historical gardens. Originally constructed as a royal estate for Safavid rulers, it was later acquired and restored by Mirza Ali Khan Qavam al-Molk during the Qajar period. In 1867, a magnificent two-story mansion replaced the former Golshan Fortress at the garden’s core.
During the Pahlavi era, the estate was gifted to Farah Pahlavi before being acquired by the Iranian military in 1961. Over the course of seven years, it was meticulously restored with influences from Versailles Palace.
Since April 18, 1991, Afif-Abad has functioned as Iran’s Military Museum, welcoming public visitors. Officially registered as a national heritage site in 1972, the garden remains a well-preserved landmark, drawing both local and international tourists.
FAQs About Afif Abad Garden
1. What is the historical significance of Afif Abad Garden?
Afif Abad Garden, originally a royal estate from the Safavid era, has undergone several transformations. It became a luxurious mansion during the Qajar period and later served as a military museum under the Pahlavi era.
2. What are the main attractions of Afif Abad Garden?
Key attractions include the grand mansion with its stunning architecture, the military museum displaying historical weaponry, the Persian garden with lush landscapes, a traditional tea house, and a historic bathhouse featuring Persian tilework.
3. What are the visiting hours and ticket prices for Afif Abad Garden?
The garden is open from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM in spring and summer and from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM in autumn and winter. Tickets cost 5,000 Tomans for domestic visitors and 50,000 Tomans for international tourists.
4. How can I get to Afif Abad Garden?
Visitors can reach the garden by metro (Avini Metro Station, followed by a taxi), by bus (Esteghlal Boulevard, Zerehi Station), or by personal car via Afif-Abad Street.
What is the best time to visit Afif Abad Garden?
Spring, particularly when orange blossoms bloom, offers the most scenic beauty. Early mornings are ideal for those who prefer a quieter experience.
