Shokat Abad; an iconic Persian garden of South Khorasan Province
Shokat Abad Garden, an exemplary Persian garden, was commissioned by Ismail Khan Shokat ol-Molk of the Alam family near Birjand, South Khorasan Province. Persian gardens are a defining characteristic of Iranian desert cities; a garden in the heart of the desert exemplifies the brilliance and ingenuity of Iranian engineering and historical techniques.
Spanning a large area, Shokat Abad Garden uniquely features fruit trees, emphasizing its agricultural vitality. Reflecting traditional Persian garden architecture, it centers around a Kushk (pavilion), dating back to the Qajar dynasty.
The pavilion boasts a white façade and a spacious terrace supported by two pillars and arches. Some sections feature decorative Goldani motifs. Surrounding the terrace are multiple rooms, with additional structures at the back, visitirn.ir wrote.
Shokat Abad’s architecture and structural design are impressive, meticulously planned to match specific agricultural and aesthetic needs. The Howz Khaneh — a summer retreat typically featuring an octagonal layout — houses most of the decorations and intricate details. Above it, a large vault, topped with a Kolah Farangi dome resembling a foreign headpiece, provides shelter. Strategically placed holes in this structure allow natural light to illuminate the Howz Khaneh.
Constructed with vaults, the garden’s architecture effectively addresses the hot, dry climate of South Khorasan Province. Some parts of the complex are newer additions, made to meet the needs of its current residents.
The owner’s private quarters, known as the Andaruni, are situated on the southern side of the complex. They resemble traditional Birjand houses, featuring stucco frames and arches around the pools. Fruit trees, another hallmark of the garden, not only provide produce but also serve as ornamental features.
Shokat Abad is located five kilometers east of Birjand in the village with the same name, along the route from Birjand to Zahedan. An easy landmark to find is Birjand University, which is directly opposite the garden. This site was registered as a national heritage of Iran on August 14, 1999.