Behnam House: Saat Tower’s Timeless Charm
A Historic Gem in the Heart of Tabriz
Located near Tabriz’s famous Saat Tower, Behnam House—also known as Ganje’i or Kadki House—is one of the most remarkable surviving Qajar-era residences in Iran. With its frescoed ceilings, seasonal architecture, and meticulously restored interiors, this hidden gem offers a quiet yet powerful look into the aristocratic life of 19th-century Tabriz.
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Why Visit Behnam House in Tabriz?
As one of Iran’s most historic cities, Tabriz boasts over 300 heritage homes, making it the second-largest city in the country for historic residences. Behnam House is among the finest. Constructed in the late Zand era and expanded under Naser al-Din Shah of the Qajar dynasty, this estate was designed for nobility—and it shows.
From the richly decorated seven-door hall (Haft-Dari) to the mirror-like central courtyard, this house is a masterclass in Persian architectural storytelling. A recent restoration unearthed original frescoes and wall paintings, revealing the home’s long-hidden artistic layers.
Historical Background
Built in the twilight of the Zand dynasty, Behnam House saw its glory years during the Qajar period. Its restoration during Naser al-Din Shah’s reign included ornate stucco reliefs, colorful wall art, and mirror-inlaid halls. In 1997, the house was officially listed as a National Heritage Site of Iran (No. 1850).
Today, it serves as part of the administrative complex of Tabriz Islamic Art University, ensuring the preservation of this architectural gem for future generations.
Architecture and Layout
Like many traditional Persian homes, Behnam House consists of two main parts:
Summer and Winter Quarters
- The summer wing (main building) faces north, capturing cool breezes and minimizing sunlight, making it ideal for warm months.
- The winter wing faces south and is designed to retain warmth.
Andaruni and Biruni
- The Biruni (public area) includes the main Haft-Dari hall, the summer terrace, and guest reception rooms.
- The Andaruni (private family quarters) is set in the northernmost section, designed for privacy and includes a larger courtyard and multiple side rooms.
The Haft-Dari Hall
Positioned on the northern side of the Biruni courtyard, the central hall—known as the Haft-Dari—features seven finely crafted stained-glass windows. These colorful panes filter sunlight into dancing rainbows, illuminating the painted walls and decorative fireplaces.
Intricate plasterwork and mural paintings adorn every corner, from arched alcoves to carved wooden shelves. The attached ear-shaped rooms, or goshvareh, also carry artistic detailing, showcasing the craftsmanship of the Qajar period.
Hozkhaneh (Underground Water Room)
Beneath the main hall lies the Hozkhaneh, a domed space with brick-carved shelves and a central stone pool. Traditionally used as a summer retreat, this room is cooler and quieter—a retreat from the heat and bustle of daily life.
Summer Terrace and Southern Façade
On the southern edge of the courtyard, the summer terrace (Eyvan-e Tabestani) is shaded from direct sun and decorated with plaster muqarnas, carved capitals, and red brick masonry.
Every element, from the mirrorwork ceilings to the painted tiles, reinforces the home’s aristocratic elegance.
Visiting Tips
Opening Hours and Ticket Info
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays (closed Fridays and public holidays)
- Entry Fee: A small fee is required for entry—well worth the opportunity to explore this architectural masterpiece.
- Time Needed: Allocate at least 90 minutes to 2 hours for a full visit.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is ideal for a trip to Tabriz. The city’s cool mountain climate offers a pleasant escape from southern Iran’s heat, making it a popular seasonal destination. Behnam House is particularly photogenic in early morning or late afternoon when natural light accentuates its stained-glass brilliance.
How to Get There
Address: Behnam House is located in Maqsoudieh neighborhood, near the Tabriz Historic Bazaar and Saat Square.
- By Public Transit: Get off at Saat Metro Station, then walk or take a short taxi ride.
- By Car: No dedicated parking is available; it’s best to park nearby and walk the final stretch through Mashir Daftar Alley.
Use the rear entrance to access the house via a narrow corridor—authentic and atmospheric.
What’s Nearby
Thanks to its central location, Behnam House is surrounded by Tabriz’s other cultural gems. All within walking distance:
- House of Shahriar (5 minutes)
- Saat Tower and Municipality Palace (10 minutes)
- Measurement Museum (3 minutes)
- Nikdel House (2 minutes)
- Tarbiyat Street (historic pedestrian zone, nearby)
- Tabriz Music Museum (10 minutes)
Location
Where to Stay Nearby
Looking for hotels near Behnam House? These options are within easy reach:
- Azerbaijan Hotel Tabriz
- Ahrab Hotel
- Nowbar Apartment Hotel
- Sahand Hotel
- Sina Hotel
Book Tabriz Hotels
Dining Options Close By
After your visit, try some local flavors at these nearby eateries:
- Dizi Saray-e Naser: For traditional Persian stew
- Alishah Restaurant: Casual local fare
- Mohammadi Farm Restaurant: Known for grilled meats
- Afagh Restaurant: Stylish with classic Iranian dishes
Final Thoughts
Behnam House is more than a heritage building—it’s a canvas of Iran’s artistic and architectural evolution. From elegant courtyards and hidden frescoes to the seasonally adaptive design, every part of the estate reflects Tabriz’s historical significance and creative spirit.
Set amid one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods and just steps from iconic attractions, this Qajar-era treasure invites travelers to pause, admire, and reconnect with Iran’s noble past.
Ready to explore Tabriz’s timeless charm?
Book guided tours, city walks, and accommodations with OrientTrips and turn your cultural curiosity into unforgettable moments.
