Saed News: In the heart of Niavaran's lush gardens, the Sahebgaraniyeh Palace shines like a gem from Iran's history. This magnificent palace, the summer residence of the Qajar kings, tells the stories of Nasser al-Din Shah and Ahmad Shah. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this historic palace.
Saed News: The Sahebgaraniyeh Palace is one of the most beautiful and magnificent royal palaces in Iran, located in the northern part of Tehran, within the Niavaran Historical and Cultural Complex. This palace, with its fusion of Iranian and European architectural styles, was the summer residence of the Qajar kings. Ahmad Shah Qajar, the last king of the Qajar dynasty, spent much of his reign in this palace.
With its mirror halls, marble columns, intricately decorated ceilings, and lush gardens, the Sahebgaraniyeh Palace is one of the most significant historical and cultural landmarks in Tehran. In this article, we take a comprehensive look at this splendid palace, which, from its early days, also served as the residence of the last unsuccessful Qajar king, Ahmad Shah.
History of SahebgaraniyehPalace: The SahebgaraniyehPalace was built during the reign of Nasser al-Din Shah Qajar. Nasser al-Din Shah, due to his love for hunting and resting in cool areas, decided to build a lavish palace in the Niavaran region. Construction of the palace began in 1888 and was completed several years later.
The name "Sahebgaraniyeh" is derived from the title of Nasser al-Din Shah, "Saheb-e-Qaran," meaning "the ruler of two centuries." Nasser al-Din Shah chose this palace as his summer residence. After his assassination, the palace passed to Mozaffar al-Din Shah and then to Mohammad Ali Shah.
However, the palace's golden age began during the reign of Ahmad Shah Qajar. Ahmad Shah, who was fond of the palace, made it his main residence. He ordered some of the interior decorations to be changed to European styles and imported furniture and items from European countries. After the fall of the Qajar dynasty and the rise of Reza Shah Pahlavi, the SahebgaraniyehPalace was seized by the Pahlavi family.
During Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi's reign, the palace was used for official meetings, diplomatic visits, and as a retreat for the Shah and Farah Diba. After the Islamic Revolution, the SahebgaraniyehPalace was opened as a museum in the Niavaran Historical and Cultural Complex.
Architecture of Sahebgaraniyeh Palace and Its Various Sections: The Sahebgaraniyeh Palace is an exceptional blend of Iranian and European architecture. The exterior of the palace, with its white columns, latticed windows, and arched doors, showcases traditional Iranian architectural elements. The palace's ceilings are adorned with delicate stuccowork, mirrorwork, and wall paintings.
The floors are covered with white and green marble, and exquisite Persian rugs are found throughout the various rooms. The interior is decorated with crystal chandeliers, fine stuccowork, and European-style wall paintings.
Mirror Hall: The Mirror Hall is one of the most magnificent parts of the palace. This hall, with its intricate mirrorwork, stucco ceilings, and large crystal chandeliers, creates a luxurious atmosphere. Ahmad Shah used this hall for official ceremonies and meetings with domestic and foreign dignitaries.
The Brilliant Hall: Next to the Mirror Hall is the Brilliant Hall, which is decorated with marble walls, golden stuccowork, and large chandeliers. This hall was used for royal banquets and official meetings.
Ahmad Shah's Bedroom: Ahmad Shah's bedroom is located on the northern side of the palace. This room, with its blue velvet curtains, a Kashan hand-woven carpet, and a walnut wood bed, reflects his preference for simplicity in decoration. Despite its grandeur, the room has a calm and simple atmosphere.
Ahmad Shah's Office: Ahmad Shah's office is located on the eastern side of the palace. The room is furnished with European-style wooden furniture, a walnut wood desk with delicate carvings, and a library filled with historical and political books. Ahmad Shah made important political decisions in this room.
Royal Bath: The royal bath of Sahebgaraniyeh Palace is built with white marble, turquoise tiles, and bronze faucets. It contains two small pools with stone fountains.
The Pool House: The Pool House is located in the basement of the palace. This section is decorated with lapis lazuli and blue tiles, stone fountains, and a marble pool. The cool environment of the Pool House provided a resting place for Ahmad Shah and the royal family members during the summer.
Sahebgaraniyeh Palace Garden: The Sahebgaraniyeh Palace is surrounded by a beautiful and lush garden. The garden features cobblestone paths, cypress and pine trees, water fountains, and colorful flowers. Ahmad Shah enjoyed walking through this garden.
Tourist Guide for Sahebgaraniyeh Palace: Today, the SahebgaraniyehPalace is one of the most important tourist attractions in Tehran, welcoming both domestic and international visitors. It is part of the Niavaran Historical and Cultural Complex. Visitors can explore the Mirror Hall, Brilliant Hall, Ahmad Shah's Bedroom, Office, Royal Bath, and Pool House.
Visiting Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Days Open for Visit: Daily, except for official holidays
Location: Niavaran Historical and Cultural Complex, northern Tehran
Ticket Price: The ticket for visiting the Sahebgaraniyeh Palace is calculated separately.
Recommendations:
Comfortable shoes are recommended for the visit.
Flash photography is prohibited in some areas of the palace.
Professional guides are available, providing detailed explanations about the history and architecture of the palace.
