Tehran city break

Long before the ancient Romans got round to spreading their influence outside of Italy, the Persian Empire, ruling from the modern state of Iran across Western and Central Asia, was the largest and most powerful empire the world had ever seen.

Excavations have revealed that settlements in Tehran, now the capital city of the Islamic republic of Iran, have existed since as early as 6,000 BC, though for centuries it remained very much in the shadow of the neighbouring city of Rhages.

Despite its ancient roots and rich history, however, Tehran is very much a product of the 20th century.

While in 1920, its population measured just 200,000, now the figure stands at almost 12 million and it is a city that undoubtedly basks in its status of a modern, sprawling metropolis.

It is this modernity that draws tourists to Tehran, with many just as keen to experience the chaotic nature of downtown Tehran as to discover its ancient heritage.

Indeed, the first thing of any note that visitors will see after arriving from the Mehrabad International Airport is a testament to the modern image being projected by Tehran, and indeed, Iran.

Constructed in 1971 to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian Empire, the Azadi (freedom) Tower has come to be the symbol of the city and its modern-day revival.

Inside the 50-metre high structure, made from white marble, is a museum celebrating the first 'Declaration of Human Rights' inscribed by Cyrus the Elder, the founder of the Persian Empire, with collections also celebrating the nation's religious and military heritage, which can be further explored at the National Museum of Iran.

In contrast to the monuments to its past, the city's Museum of Contemporary Art represents its 20th century cultural heritage.

Though the museum is probably unique in deeming the artwork of Adolf Hitler to be worthy of being displayed, the collection also boasts works by Van Gogh, Picasso and Andy Warhol.

Travelling between the city's many museums and cultural attractions is an experience in itself.

While three lines of a metro system have recently been completed - despite the city's vulnerability to earthquakes - travelling by car remains the most popular way of negotiating the city, meaning the roads are constantly grid-locked and chaotic.

More importantly for the visitor, Tehran suffers from bad air pollution, making a face mask a travel essential when exploring any of the centre by foot.


Though there are several parks and gardens into which visitors can duck to escape the noise and the dirt of the modern city, it is the mountains overlooking Tehran which offer the most effective respite.

Worth a daytrip from the capital, the Alborz mountain range, dominated by the country's highest peak, the extinct volcano Mount Damavand, has long-served as a getaway for the city's inhabitants.

The lushness of the surrounding plateau points to this area being the only place in Iran where rainfall is plentiful, while the snow-covered mountaintops boast several excellent ski and snowboarding resorts for those looking for something a bit more exciting than simply rambling.

While political tensions may deter many travellers from visiting Iran, those who monitor the political situation before they depart and take sensible precautions once there - such as steering clear of political or religious demonstrations - should be free to experience the best that this modern capital has to offer.