Behind the Scenes of Azadi Tower’s Creation in 1970: How the Unsung Architect Hossein Amanat Became Immortal with a Single Design

According to the History and Culture section of Saed News, Tehran’s Freedom Tower was designed by Iranian architect Hossein Amanat and constructed under the supervision of Mohammad Pourfathi. The project began in 1970 (1349 in the Iranian calendar) and was inaugurated in 1971 to celebrate the 2,500th anniversary of the Iranian monarchy.

Key Facts About the Tower’s Creation

• Lead Architect: Hossein Amanat, a young Iranian architect, was only 24 years old when his design won a national competition.

• Project Manager: Mohammad Pourfathi oversaw the construction process.

• Structural Engineer: The British firm Arup handled the tower’s structural design.

• Contractor: Map Company managed the construction and execution of the project.

• Construction Timeline: Work began in 1970 and was completed in 28 months.

• Inauguration: The tower opened on October 16, 1971, under the name “Shahyad Tower,” and was renamed “Azadi (Freedom) Tower” after the 1979 revolution.

Architectural Features of Freedom Tower

• Height: Approximately 43–45 meters.

• Design Style: A fusion of Achaemenid, Sassanid, and Islamic architecture.

• Symbolism: Built as a symbol of “Modern Iran,” the tower commemorates the 2,500-year celebration of the Persian monarchy.

• Location: Situated at Azadi Square (formerly Shahyad Square) in western Tehran, it is widely recognized as the city’s most iconic landmark.

Interesting Fact

After designing Freedom Tower, Hossein Amanat went on to undertake major international projects, including the design of university buildings in Canada and the United States. Despite his global work, Freedom Tower remains his most celebrated masterpiece in Iran, even appearing on banknotes in the 1970s.