John loved the gardens of Isfahan. There are wide green parks on both sides of the  Zayandeh (life-giving) River which runs through the city. To learn that the planning of these parks dates back to the 17 century is quite amazing.

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Abbas Shah moved the capital of the Persian Empire to Isfahan in a effort to provide security and to be closer to the Persian Gulf, which was becoming important trade route.This river city isolated Isfahan from enemies and created an “oasis” for important trade routes for the entire world.

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Today the river and gardens create a green space for the all the people of Isfahan. Many fill the benches that are placed among the flowers and trees.

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There are wonderful bridges throughout the city. The most famous and the longest is Sio-Seh Pol, meaning 33 Pier Arches. It was opened for use in 1602.

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Our tour spent 3 full days in Isfahan, and we were so glad!!! It was a beautiful, friendly place to be. The shopping, the mosques, the hammans, and palaces were the best!!!   Our favorite places were the Khaju Bridge/Dam and the grand Maidan-e-Naghsh-e-Jahan Square.

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The Najhsh-e-Jahan Square is one of the largest city squares in the world. It’s an outstanding example of Iranian and Islamic architecture, a World Heritage Site.

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At one time the center green space of this city square was a polo field. The King and his family sat in the viewing stand on the right side, called the Ali Qapu Palace. These polo matches (chow gan) were very popular and the King entertained at the palace during these games.

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The Maidan Square is also the home of two impressive mosques, Sheikh Lotfollah and the Shah Mosque, also called the Imam Mosque (after 1997 Revolution). These mosques were covered with a special mosiac tile of 7 colors. Beautiful Arabic writing was also part of the designs of the mosques.

Opposite the Imam Mosque is the entrance to the Imperial Bazaar. The two story design of the shops enclosed the entire Maidan Square. A Shoppers Paradise!!!