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PERSIA REIMAGINED: AN ARCHITECTURAL JOURNEY IN IRAN EXPLORING HISTORY, CULTURE & HOSPITALITY
Forget what you think you know about Iran. Beyond the headlines and the tired narratives of mainstream media lies a country that defies expectations—an ancient land of breathtaking architecture, rich artistic traditions, and a warmth of hospitality unmatched anywhere in the world.This is Persia, a civilization that has shaped human history for millennia, where culture and craftsmanship are woven into the fabric of daily life.
Join us on an unforgettable journey through awe-inspiring landscapes, from the intricate domes of centuries-old mosques to the earthen beauty of traditional villages. Along the way, immerse yourself in hands-on natural building workshops, learning skills passed down through generations while connecting with master artisans who keep these traditions alive.
This is more than a tour—it’s an invitation to see Iran for what it truly is: a land of beauty, resilience, and heart-stirring hospitality that will change the way you see the world.
A Journey Through Time: Discovering Iran’s Architectural Wonders and Living Traditions
Day 1: Tehran – A Tale of Two Worlds
Our journey begins in Tehran, a city where the pulse of modern Iran beats against the backdrop of its rich history. We start in Tajrish, a vibrant bazaar where the scent of saffron and fresh herbs mingles with the hum of daily life. Later, we step into the grandeur of Golestan Palace, a masterpiece of Persian architecture where mirrored halls and intricate tilework whisper stories of dynasties past.
Day 2: From Bustling Cities to Timeless Villages
Leaving Tehran, we journey south to Kashan, a city famed for its rosewater, historic mansions, and exquisite Persian gardens. Walking through the Tabatabaei and Borujerdi Houses, we admire the elegance of traditional Persian courtyard homes. As the sun dips lower, we continue to Abyaneh, a storybook village of pink ochre-colored homes where time seems to stand still, and the locals—dressed in vibrant, centuries-old attire—share tales of their enduring heritage.
🚗 Drive: 3.5 hours
Day 3: Isfahan – The Jewel of Persia
Winding through the Iranian countryside, we reach Isfahan, the heart of Persian architectural splendor. With Professor Mehrdad Hejazi, an expert in the structural engineering behind Persian architecture, we explore the iconic design of Si-o-Se Pol, the 33-arch bridge that elegantly spans the Zayandeh River, and the breathtaking Naqsh-e Jahan Square, where turquoise domes and intricate mosaics form a living masterpiece.
🚗 Drive: 2.5 hours
Day 4: The Forgotten City of Izadkhast
Leaving Esfahan, we arrive at Izadkhast, home to the ruins of a once-thriving fortress city. Within its crumbling walls stands what is believed to be the world’s first apartment building—a testament to the ingenuity of ancient Persian urban planning. As we walk through the abandoned streets, echoes of the past come alive.
🚗 Drive: 2 hours
Day 5: Shiraz – The Soul of Persian Art
Our arrival in Shiraz is met with a warm welcome from Ustath Hashim, a Master Craftsman who will introduce us to his work in new construction. Replicating traditional designs in modern buildings. Us Hashim will be offering a mini workshop exploring the mesmerizing art of Moaqali—Persian mosaic tilework. This is a city where poetry and beauty flow through the streets, from the gardens to the bazaars, whispering stories of love and wisdom.
🚗 Drive: 3.5 hours
Day 6: Shiraz – A City of Poets and Kings
Our day begins with an inspiring visit to one of Ar. Ali Kabiri Samani’s projects, where he masterfully weaves traditional Persian aesthetics with contemporary materials and modern living. Here, past and present coexist in harmony, proving that heritage and innovation can shape the future together.
In the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in the timeless charm of Shiraz. We step into the formidable Arg-e Karim Khan, once the stronghold of a mighty dynasty, before wandering through the vibrant corridors of Vakil Bazaar, where the scent of spices and the hum of artisans fill the air. As the sun filters through the intricate stained glass of the Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, we stand in awe of its dazzling interplay of color and light—a moment of pure magic.
As dusk settles, we pay tribute to Hafez, the beloved Persian poet whose verses have echoed through centuries, capturing the spirit of love, longing, and the enduring soul of Persia.
Day 7: Persepolis & the Cave Dwellings of Meymand
No journey through Persia is complete without standing before the ruins of Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. The colossal columns and intricate reliefs tell tales of an empire that once ruled the ancient world. By nightfall, we arrive in Meymand, a UNESCO-listed troglodyte village, where we sleep in cave dwellings carved into the rocky landscape—a tradition that dates back thousands of years.
🚗 Drive: 5 hours
Day 8: Yazd – The Desert’s Ingenious City
Our path leads us to Yazd, but not before a stop in Sar-e Yazd, an ancient caravanserai town. We will also stop by and visit with Ustath Sayed Ali, a Master Carftsman excelling in In the evening, we explore Yazd’s famed Badgirs—ingenious wind towers that have cooled desert homes for centuries, showcasing the brilliance of Iranian passive cooling systems.
🚗 Drive: 3.5 hours
Day 9: Yazd – A Living Heritage
Guided by expert heritage conservation architects, we delve into the heart of Yazd’s old city—a labyrinth of sun-drenched courtyards and winding mudbrick alleyways that whisper tales of centuries past. Behind ornate wooden doors, we step into the former homes of wealthy merchants, where intricate plasterwork, towering wind towers, and elegant stained-glass windows speak of a time when Persia thrived as a center of culture and trade. These grand residences stand as living testaments to an era of opulence and innovation, where the architectural genius of the past continues to shape and inspire modern Iranian life.
Day 10: The Time-Honored Traditions of Iraj
Continuing our journey, we pause in Meybod, where the striking historic pigeon tower and ancient ice houses stand as enduring symbols of Persian ingenuity. These remarkable structures, designed for sustainability long before the modern era, offer a glimpse into the resourcefulness of past civilizations.
From there, we travel to the village of Iraj, where tradition and craftsmanship come to life in our first earthen architecture workshop. Here, we learn the ancient art of Tandoor making, shaping clay ovens that have baked Persian bread for generations. As we immerse ourselves in this timeless practice, we begin to understand the quiet allure of Iraj—one that has sparked a wave of reverse migration. Drawn by the charm of earthen homes and a life more deeply connected to the land, architects and professionals from Tehran and beyond are returning, restoring these structures, and embracing a simpler, more sustainable way of living.
🚗 Drive: 4 hours
Day 11-13: Isfahak – Building the Future with Ancient Techniques
Before setting off for the tranquil village of Isfahak, we complete our Tandoor, marking the end of one tradition and the beginning of another. Isfahak is a place of resilience and renewal, home to a dedicated group of young locals who have come together to restore their once-abandoned earthen village.
The community was devastated by the Tabas earthquake of the 1970s, a tragedy that claimed countless lives and shattered both homes and hearts. In the aftermath, fear and necessity drove many to abandon their ancestral dwellings, seeking refuge in modern commercial materials and leaving behind centuries of architectural wisdom.
But in 2012, a new chapter began. A group of young visionaries returned, determined to revive not just the structures, but the soul of Isfahak. With their hands in the earth and history as their guide, they painstakingly restored homes, public buildings, and, most importantly, the architectural knowledge that once defined their heritage.
Under the guidance of Master Craftsmen, we will step into this living tradition, taking part in an Earthen Dome Workshop—a hands-on experience in one of the most sustainable and time-honored building techniques that have shaped Persian homes for millennia.
🚗 Drive: 3.5 hours
If you would like to learn more about the story of this incredible village see our blog https://www.indiarchitecture.com/esfahak-an-inspiring-tale-of-the-revival-of-earthen-architectural-wisdom-in-iran
Day 14: Nashtifan – Where Windmills Sing to the Sky
A long but rewarding journey takes us to Nashtifan, home to some of the world’s oldest windmills. These towering wooden structures, powered by the desert winds, have been grinding grain for centuries—a living testament to Persian engineering and adaptation to nature.
🚗 Drive: 5.5 hours
Day 15: The Journey’s End in Mashhad
Our final stretch leads us to Mashhad, Iran’s spiritual heart and home to the stunning Imam Reza Shrine. It is here, in this city of devotion and grandeur, that we conclude our adventure—having traced the story of Persia through its architecture, landscapes, and the warmth of its people.
🚗 Drive: 4 hours
This is more than a journey; it’s a rediscovery of Persia—its wisdom, artistry, and soul. Will you step beyond the headlines and experience the true essence of Iran?
Inclusions
Accommodation
Experience a diverse mix of heritage properties, boutique hotels, traditional guesthouses, and ecolodges, each offering a unique perspective on Iran’s rich architectural and cultural heritage:
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Tehran – Golestan Hotel (Comfortable city stay in the capital)
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Abyaneh – Abyaneh Hotel (Stay in a historic village with stunning earthen architecture)
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Isfahan – Dalan Jalan (Charming boutique heritage accommodation)
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Izadkhast – Khoroshk Ecolodge (Eco-friendly lodging in an ancient fortress setting)
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Shiraz – Sina Traditional Hotel (Authentic Persian-style accommodation)
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Meymand – Meymandmoon (Troglodyte cave dwelling experience in a UNESCO-listed village)
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Yazd – Art House Café (A heritage stay in the heart of Yazd’s old city)
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Iraj – Erabeh Eco Lodge (Sustainable village living surrounded by nature)
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Isfahak – Village Guesthouses (Community-led restoration project offering an immersive stay)
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Mashhad – Hotel Stay (A comfortable end to the journey)
Workshops & Hands-on Experiences
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Tandoor Making Workshop – Discover the centuries-old technique of shaping and firing clay ovens, which have been central to Persian cuisine for generations. Guided by local artisans, we will craft our own tandoors using traditional materials and methods, gaining insight into the deep connection between architecture and daily life in Iran.
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Earthen Dome Workshop – Learn the secrets of Persian earthen architecture as Master Craftsmen guide us through the construction of self-supporting domes using age-old techniques. This hands-on experience provides a profound understanding of how sustainable materials and intelligent design have shaped Iran’s architecture for millennia.
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Persian Mosaic (Moaqali) Workshop – Under the tutelage of Ustath Hashim, we will explore the intricate artistry of Persian mosaics, learning how geometric patterns and vibrant tilework bring Persian buildings to life.
Guided Tours & Special Experiences
- Entire tour lead & managed personally by Kimberley - founder of Indi Architecture
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Exclusive architectural tours led by expert heritage conservation architects.
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Lecture on Badgirs – Iran’s ingenious wind tower cooling systems and their role in sustainable living.
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Guided tour of Isfahan’s historic bridges & domes with Professor Mehrdad Hejazi.
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Exploration of Persepolis, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Arg-e Karim Khan, and other iconic sites
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Entrance Fees to Persepolis
Transportation & Meals
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Private transportation throughout the tour.
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Daily breakfast included.
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Lunch & Dinner included - except for two dinners - one in Yazd and one in Mashhad.
Cultural & Architectural Highlights
This journey is more than just a tour—it is an immersion into the living history of Persia, where architecture, culture, and craftsmanship come together to tell the story of an ancient yet thriving civilization. As we work alongside master artisans, shaping raw earth into functional ovens and domed structures, we experience firsthand the wisdom of Persian building traditions. The hands-on workshops offer more than just technical skills—they provide an intimate connection to the land, the materials, and the philosophies that have sustained Persian communities for centuries.
Through this experience, we come to understand architecture not just as an aesthetic pursuit but as a way of life, deeply intertwined with nature, sustainability, and the rhythms of daily existence. From the cooling wind towers of Yazd to the hand-carved cave dwellings of Meymand, each architectural marvel tells a story of adaptation, ingenuity, and cultural pride. By the time we reach the vibrant bazaars of Shiraz and the poetic gardens of Mashhad, we will not just have explored Iran—we will have built a connection to it, one that lingers long after the journey ends.
Exclusions
- Flights not included
- Tips for Driver, Guides & Master Craftsmen
- Drinks with meals
Persian Food
Iranian cuisine is a feast for the senses, rich in aromas, flavors, and centuries-old traditions that reflect the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural influences. From the fragrant saffron and rosewater of Shiraz to the slow-cooked stews (khoresh) of Isfahan and the warm, freshly baked flatbreads of Yazd, every meal is an experience in itself. Persian food is known for its bold use of spices, dried fruits, nuts, and fresh herbs, creating a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Iran has a strong meat-eating culture, with lamb, chicken, and beef frequently featured in dishes such as kebabs, aromatic rice dishes (like Baghali Polo), and hearty stews. However, we will ensure that vegetarian options are available throughout the journey, highlighting the country’s incredible array of herb-laden vegetable dishes, lentil soups, and saffron-infused rice specialties. For guests with specific dietary requirements, we kindly ask that you inform us in advance so that we can make the necessary arrangements to accommodate your needs, ensuring a delicious and inclusive experience for all.
If you would like to catch a glimpse of some of these sights with footage captured during our research trip in November 2024 see a selection of short stories underr highlights on our Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/18372619201110754/