Visit Bastam to take a journey through history and beauty
The Bayazid Bastami Complex stands out as a prominent and revered tourist destination in Bastam, Semnan Province. As you approach the main square of Bastam, the striking turquoise dome of this renowned mystic complex commands attention, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and spiritual significance.
Comprising a collection of tombs, a khanqah (monastery), a portico, a brick minaret, mosques, the shrine of Imamzadeh Mohammad, Ghazan Khan’s Dome, and other ancient structures, the Bayazid Bastami Complex showcases various architectural styles and historical periods, each with its own unique story to tell.
Upon entering the complex, visitors are transported back in time, enveloped in a serene ambiance enhanced by the melodic songs of birds, the vibrant blue sky, verdant trees, and intricate tile work adorning the surroundings. This idyllic setting offers a panoramic view that instills a sense of calm and tranquility in all who visit, inviting contemplation and reflection amidst the beauty of the past.
The tomb of Bayazid Bastami is characterized by its simplicity and lack of ostentatious decorations, reflecting the humble lifestyle typically associated with mystics. This unadorned and unfinished structure serves as a poignant reminder of the mystic’s ascetic way of life, exemplifying the modesty and spiritual depth often attributed to such individuals. Notably, the tomb features an iron window, adding to its understated yet meaningful design.
Beneath the monument’s dome lies the tomb of Bayazid Bastami, marked by a marble gravestone adorned with religious inscriptions, symbolizing the reverence and spiritual significance attributed to the mystic.
Within the Bayazid Bastami Complex, the Shahrokhi School holds a place of historical importance. This two-story building, comprising 28 rooms, a mosque, and an ivan, stands as a testament to the Timurid era’s architectural legacy.
Shahrokhi School
Originally positioned in the complex’s eastern section, the Shahrokhi School has a rich history as an educational institution and is named after its founder, Shahrokh Timuri. Today, the school continues to serve as a religious seminary, preserving its heritage and contributing to the spiritual and educational fabric of the community.
Kashaneh Tower
The Kashaneh Tower is a magnificent tall tower situated in the southern part of the city, near the Jaame Mosque. The architecture of the tower displays a unique beauty and grandeur, reminiscent of observatories, characterized by its multi-faceted design and adorned with exquisite plasterwork and brickwork. Standing at a height of nearly twenty meters, the history of this tower dates back to 1300 CE, as indicated by the inscription at its entrance.
Residents of Bastam believe that this tower was originally a Zoroastrian fire temple before Islam and was later transformed into a watchtower. Others suggest that the original name of this structure was Ghazaneh and it was associated with the legacy of Ghazan Khan Mongol, eventually evolving over time to be known as Kashaneh.
Jaame Mosque of Bastam
The Jaame Mosque of Bastam stands out as one of the most beautiful mosques in the history of Iran, a significant landmark in Semnan Province. Situated near the Kashaneh Tower in Bastam and in close proximity to the Bayazid Bastami complex, this mosque showcases intricate brickwork and delicate plasterwork that garnered immense admiration during its era, solidifying its status as an architectural masterpiece.