The hospitality of Iranians is famous among all those who have traveled to Iran. Let’s take a look at the customs of Iranian hospitality. Stay with Saad News.
Iranians possess one of the richest cultures of hospitality across various aspects. In fact, if you pay attention, you will realize that we have known the customs and culture of hospitality since we were children, even when playing games like "Aunt Play" was one of our favorites. We learned early on how to show respect to guests, how to host them, and how to treat them with honor. Therefore, understanding different styles of hospitality is something that does not require any special theory or training for us Iranians, because most of us, from our early years, have demonstrated a strong background in hospitality through our games and activities.
Hospitality in the Past Iranian hospitality has been reflected in various ways, from traditional Iranian architecture to caravanserais, poetry, and proverbs, all maintaining respect for both religious and non-religious festivals and events throughout the centuries. The ancient Iranian calendar, with its many joyous and meaningful occasions, reveals the deep roots of Iranian hospitality. Iranians considered these festivals and rituals as opportunities for hosting. One of the most significant ceremonies where hospitality, visitation, and welcoming guests are most evident is the ancient Nowruz or Yalda night. Many travelogues from past centuries mention Iranian hospitality, highlighting it as a key feature of the culture.
For instance, Ibn Hawqal, a 10th-century Arab geographer, said about the hospitality of the Buyid dynasty: “The kings and men of Fars wear fine clothing and greet those who visit them with complete generosity and cheerfulness. They are diligent in preparing a variety of dishes for their guests, decorating their tables with colorful and abundant food. They instruct that sweets and fruits should be brought to the guests before the meal is set. Their gatherings are free of frivolous talk and indecent behavior. They take great pride in their table settings and attire, and there is competition among the nobility of Fars in these matters.” He further emphasized Iranian hospitality by saying, “It seems as if all the people live in one house and visit each other warmly, even if they are not acquainted with one another. Every landowner strives to have a spacious house to host guests better.”
In ancient times, when traveling was not as it is today and transportation mainly relied on animals, caravanserais were established as resting places for travelers, where they could stay for free or at minimal cost and rest. According to historical documents, caravanserais were so important that in 719, the governor of Samarkand, which is now part of Uzbekistan but was once a part of Iran, was instructed to set up a caravanserai so that Muslim travelers could rest there for a full day and be treated with utmost hospitality.
The Tradition of Bread and Salt The custom of sharing bread and salt is an ancient Iranian tradition, often associated with hospitality among warriors and noblemen. According to Dehkhoda's dictionary, in Iranian culture, if someone dines with another person, it is said they have shared bread and salt, and as a result, they are committed to maintaining friendship and loyalty. This tradition is often mentioned in the Shahnameh, where Esfandiar refuses to sit at Rostam's table because he believes that once he eats the bread and salt of Rostam, he will no longer be able to fight him.
The most important duty during any gathering is to adhere to the proper etiquette. It is better to invite guests occasionally, rather than frequently. The host should respect the guest’s status and when setting the table, the host should remain standing until the guests ask to be seated. In some regions like Gorgan, it was customary for the host to absent themselves and appoint someone to serve the guests on their behalf. In some places, when food was served, it would first be presented to the host, and then to the guests, whereas in other regions, the process would be reversed.
During the Achaemenid era, ceremonial meetings with local people and foreign representatives involved significant hospitality practices. The celebration of Nowruz, which was already established before the Achaemenid dynasty, was treated as a public holiday with specific rituals. For example, during the first five days, the king and the royal family were honored, followed by the aristocrats, servants, and common people in the coming days.
Ancient Iranian society had well-defined rules for interaction, and these social and administrative norms were based on ethical teachings and religious guidance. While there are limitations in historical records, it is clear that aspects like how to speak, host, and behave toward the elite were deeply ingrained in the culture.
Taarof, which is part of our verbal etiquette or delicate form of communication, is rooted in Iranian culture. William O. Beeman, an anthropologist at the University of Minnesota, describes taarof as a form of "downplaying" where one person elevates the other while lowering themselves. This practice has social stability in a hierarchical society like Iran, where both parties aim for equality. Taarof is an essential part of Iranian hospitality, reflecting the kind-hearted nature of the people. It plays a central role in Iranian gatherings, embodying the warmth and respect shown to guests.
