A walking tour of Shiraz’s historic Zand quarter
Shiraz, often referred to as Iran’s cultural capital, is best explored on foot — especially in its historic Zand Quarter. Built in the 18th century under the visionary rule of Karim Khan Zand, this district seamlessly blends Persian artistry, architectural marvels, and vibrant living history. This half-day walking tour covers six iconic sites and concludes with a taste of authentic Persian cuisine. Let’s step back in time!
Why Shiraz is a must-visit
Shiraz isn’t just a city; it’s a portal to the soul of Persia. Beyond its poetic legacy, it serves as the gateway to both Persepolis, the awe-inspiring Achaemenid capital, and Pasargadae, the tomb of Cyrus the Great. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites located just an hour away, destinationiran.com wrote.
The city boasts landmarks like the 19th-century Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, where sunlight transforms stained-glass windows into kaleidoscopes of color. Shiraz's temperate climate nurtures vineyards and fragrant orange groves that frame its stunning turquoise-domed shrines. Its cosmopolitan spirit pulses through art galleries, saffron-infused cuisine, and the warm, tea-loving locals who embody Persian hospitality. A journey here isn’t just travel; it’s time travel.
Karim Khan Citadel
Karim Khan Zand, who ruled Iran from 1751 to 1779, rejected the title of king in favor of Vakil-o-Roaya (Attorney of the People). His citadel served both as a military stronghold and a royal residence. Karim Khan Citadel is a rectangular brick fortress with 14-meter-high walls and circular bastions at each corner.
Rostam tilework: The eastern entrance features glazed tiles depicting Rostam, the legendary hero from Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, battling demons.
Inner oasis: Inside the citadel, a serene courtyard filled with orange trees, private bathhouses (visit the southeast section), and four residential wings showcase the lifestyle of the Zand royal family.
Pars Museum
Located in Nazar Garden, just a five-minute walk south of the citadel, this octagonal Kolah Farangi (pavilion) building, named for its European-influenced design, once hosted Karim Khan’s diplomatic meetings. Today, it houses:
Exquisite Holy Qur’an manuscripts
Lacquer-work boxes from the Qajar era
Portraits of Zand rulers and Safavid-era ceramics
Design Details: Admire the intricate muqarnas (honeycomb vaulting) and floral tilework framing the central dome.
Vakil Mosque
Just a 10-minute walk east from Nazar Garden, near Vakil Bazaar, this mosque greets visitors with its colorful display of striking glazed tiles adorned with beautiful floral patterns. Crossing a wide-open courtyard, enter the southern Shabestan, where a columned hall is concealed behind its tall entrance portal.
Courtyard: Framed by 48 tiled arches and featuring a reflective pool.
Prayer hall: Supported by 48 spiraled columns, the vaulted ceiling is adorned with intricate arabesque patterns.
Mihrab and minbar: The prayer niche and pulpit showcase calligraphic inscriptions and peacock motifs. The mosque’s name, Vakil echoes Karim Khan’s self-chosen title.
Vakil Bathhouse
A three-minute walk west of Vakil Mosque leads to this former public bathhouse, now a museum showcasing:
Wax figures reenacting traditional bathing rituals
Architectural innovations like Khanu (underground heating)
Temporary exhibitions (e.g., Persian carpets)
Design note: The bathhouse’s arched ceilings amplify sound — a feature that ensured privacy during its heyday.
Vakil Bazaar and Sara-ye Moshir
No tour of Shiraz is complete without diving into its iconic bazaar! From the Pars Museum, head east to the main entrance, a short walk to two gateways:
Southern gate: Follow your nose to vibrant spice stalls and kaleidoscopic shops beneath soaring 17th-century arches. Don’t miss the Chaharsu, a domed crossroads where passageways lead to workshops and glittering fabric stores, sourcing materials for the iconic embroidered dresses of the Qashqai nomads.
Northern gate: Peek into everyday life at stalls brimming with household goods — perfect for authentic souvenirs and people-watching.