Naqsh-e Jahan Square

About this place

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, meaning image of the world, is a huge square at the centre of Isfahan, known before 1979 as Shah Square and sometimes called Imam Square. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. At 160 m wide and 560 m long, it brings together in one place the finest architecture of the Safavids. The square was built between 1598 and 1629, and Safavid buildings surround it on every side. The Shah Mosque stands to the south, Ali Qapu Palace to the west, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque to the east and the Qeysarie Gate to the north, leading into the Grand Bazaar. It once served for ceremonies, trade and polo. You walk around a broad garden and long fountains and under two-storey arcades full of craft shops, where you see copper engraving, printed fabrics, carpets and sweets. From the terrace of Ali Qapu, if open, you see the whole square. At sunset the arches light up and families gather on the grass, and this is its finest time. It is about 200 m from the Shah Mosque and about 100 m from Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque. Bargain politely in the shops, many of which close around midday. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to Iran and warns that British nationals risk detention, so check official guidance before making any plans. We could not confirm the current state of this site.