Images of Iran: Golestan Palace Facade, Tehran
Golestan Palace stands on the site of the historic Arg (citadel) of Tehran which was originally built in the time of the Safavid dynasty.
The Golestan Palace in Tehran is a lavish royal complex and one of the oldest historic monuments in the Iranian capital, originally part of the old citadel (Arg) and later becoming the seat of the Qajar dynasty after Tehran was made the capital in the late 18th century. Rebuilt and adorned in the 19th century, the palace exemplifies a unique fusion of traditional Persian craftsmanship with European architectural influences, centered around gardens, pools, and richly decorated halls such as the Mirror Hall and Marble Throne, and was once the site of royal ceremonies and receptions. Today it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its artistic and architectural achievements and its role in Iran’s cultural history.