SAEDNEWS: Iran is officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, a country with a history stretching back thousands of years. While many focus on modern events like the Iranian Revolution or international sanctions, there’s so much more to discover. From ancient empires to stunning landscapes, Iran is full of surprises.
According to SAEDNEWS, There are a few things about Iran that you might have never noticed. It's an amazing country with four seasons and people so nobel and sweet. let's get to know the facts:
Much like North Korea, Iran is led by a Supreme Leader, the highest political and religious authority in the country. This position gives immense influence over the armed forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The Supreme Leader’s role shapes the daily lives of Iranians, most of whom (over 99%) are Muslim, with 90–95% following Shia Islam. Understanding this structure is key to grasping how the country operates today.
In most countries, giving a thumbs-up means “everything’s good,” but in Iran, it’s actually considered rude and offensive. Travelers should be careful with gestures, as something as simple as a hand sign can have very different cultural meanings.
The Persian Empire (559–331 BC) was one of the most powerful empires in history. Led by Cyrus the Great, it stretched from Egypt and Turkey to modern-day Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The empire united three major civilizations: Mesopotamia, the Nile Valley, and the Indus Valley. Today, you can visit Persepolis, the ancient capital, and marvel at grand stone columns, intricate carvings, and the remnants of a civilization that once ruled the world.
Iran ranks 10th in the world for the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with 28 listed as of 2025. These sites include ancient cities, mosques, and historical palaces that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage. The diversity of these sites reflects Iran’s long history, stretching from ancient Persia to Islamic architecture and beyond.
The infamous word “assassin” originates from the Hashishin, a group of covert killers operating in Iran’s mountains in the 11th and 12th centuries. Instead of waging open wars, they targeted specific enemies with precision, giving rise to the term “assassin” and influencing how we talk about covert operations even today.
Hormuz Island, located near the Persian Gulf, is famous for its colorful landscapes. The island features Red Beach, vibrant cliffs in Rainbow Valley, the mystical Salt Goddess Cave, and even a Portuguese fortress from colonial times. Visitors can also stay in the dome-like Majara Residence, which offers stunning views of the Persian Gulf. Hormuz’s rainbow-colored terrain makes it one of the most visually striking destinations in Iran.
The beloved Persian cat may not actually come from Persia. Historical accounts suggest their ancestors were exported from Iran and Afghanistan in the 1800s, though some records hint at origins in Khorasan. Regardless, these long-haired, flat-faced felines are now one of the most recognized cat breeds in the world.
Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, selling and consuming alcohol in Iran has been illegal.
Iran follows its own calendar, which starts on the midnight closest to the northern spring equinox, unlike the Gregorian calendar used in most of the world. The calendar is based on astronomical observations in Tehran, making it precise but sometimes confusing for outsiders. Online converters are usually needed to align Iranian dates with the Gregorian system.
