Iran MP calls for preserving Shiraz’s historical fabric
By Sadeq Dehqan
Staff writer
A member of the Iranian Parliament has dismissed concerns about likely damage to historical sectors of Shiraz in the wake of a project to develop a shrine in the city.
“The implementation of a project to expand the Shah Cheragh Shrine will not inflict any harm to precious historical monuments, including a house attributed to Sa’adi,” Alireza Pakfetrat told Iran Daily in an exclusive interview.
Abu-Muhammad Muslih al-Din bin Abdallah Shirazi, known by his penname Sa’adi, is a renowned Persian poet who lived in the 13th century. Sa’adi’s tomb is also located in his hometown Shiraz, in Fars Province.
The Shah Cheragh shrine is among major religious attractions in Iran and the largest pilgrimage site in Shiraz. It is the burial ground of two brothers of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia Imam. The holy shrine, with its beautiful architecture, tile work, and artistic mirror design, attracts domestic and foreign tourists.
Recently, the development project of the Shah Cheragh Shrine has brought to light speculations about potential damage to historical monuments in Shiraz.
Pakfetrat said there are many monuments in the historical sectors of Shiraz, which are precious in terms of their architectural features. The lawmaker called for preserving these historical monuments.
He noted that the House of Sa’adi has great potential for drawing in tourists.
The MP, however, said there are some ramshackle and thatched buildings in the historical textures of Shiraz which endanger people’s lives. He said the municipality has to take measures to prevent potential damage.
Pakfetrat said the House of Sa’adi has been registered on the country’s National Heritage List; no permission will be issued for its demolition.
He said the House of Sa’adi is a building of great antiquity, which is about 700 to 800 years old. He said historical evidence and documents have proved the attribution of the building to the famous poet.
The MP touched upon the architectural features of the building.
“The House of Sa’adi was built based on the model of Iranian-Islamic architecture, in the form of a rectangular house with a pond, a courtyard in the center of the house and rooms in the quadrangle of the courtyard.”
Pakfetrat said this house has suffered wear and tear and needs to be renovated. He said the renovation operations are currently underway.
The lawmaker said the house is open to the public. He added that it can turn into one of the most visited tourist centers after it is completely renovated.
Pakfetrat said the Tomb of Sa’adi is one of the most visited sites in Shiraz, adding that his house could also become an attractive destination for tourists and those who love his poems.