Iran Travelogue 40: The Hidden Gem of Shiraz - Paradise Garden 🌹

The Paradise Garden (Persian: باغ ارم, Latinized as Bagh-e Eram) is also known as Eram Garden. The word "Eram" is a Persian variant of the Arabic word "Iram," which means "paradise" in the Quran, symbolizing unparalleled beauty. This is why people prefer the poetic name "Paradise Garden." 🌟 As the sole representative of Shirazi Persian gardens, Paradise Garden was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011, along with eight other Persian gardens. Built during the Qajar Dynasty, it follows the classic design of the Chahar Bagh (Four Gardens). At its core lies a beautiful fountain, from which a cruciform water channel extends in four directions, symmetrically dividing the garden into four parts. This design represents the heavenly garden in the Quran and also incorporates the four essential elements of Zoroastrianism: sky, water, earth, and plants. 🌳 Within the garden stands a small Kakh-e Eram palace. The three-story building is adorned with colorful tiles and poetic inscriptions. The large pond in front of the palace reflects the architecture, creating an incredibly picturesque and iconic view. However, the palace itself is not open to visitors. 🏰 The design philosophy of Paradise Garden has had a profound influence on Islamic gardens in Central Asia, India, and even Spain. It is truly an eternal symbol of the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature! 🌍 #Iran #Persia #Shiraz #OffbeatTravel #NatureAndCulture #EastAndWest #ClassicalArchitecture #WorldHeritage #CulturalHeritage #PersianGardens #ParadiseGarden #HiddenTravelDestination