Kashan is an ancient oasis town, 250 km from Tehran, famous for its intricately woven carpets and great architecture. Kashan was the favorite city of Shah Abbas the Great, the 16th-century Safavid king responsible for so much of Iran’s finest architecture. Located on an altitude of 1600 m on the rim of the central Salt Desert, the city dates back to prehistoric times. The city name means “summer houses built of wood and reeds” and it is known for its Persian carpets, velvet, glazed tiles, pottery and distillation of Roses for making rosewater.

Roof of Broujerdi house, Kashan

History of Kashan

Archaeological discoveries at the Sialk Hills, located just 4 km west of Kashan, show that this region was a major center of civilization in prehistoric times, dating back around 7,000 years. The Sialk Ziggurat, one of the oldest structures in the world, still stands today as a testament to the ancient history of Iran.

Kashan’s development during the Islamic Middle Ages was supported by its access to clean drinking water from a sophisticated underground water canal system known as Qanat. Its dry climate, less prone to spreading diseases, may have also helped the city resist epidemics that affected other regions. Kashan’s economy thrived due to its strategic location on silk road trade routes and a variety of local industries, including camel breeding, textile, silk production, and ceramic-making. These factors contributed to Kashan’s historical and cultural significance, making it one of Iran’s oldest and most fascinating cities.

What to see in Kashan

Although Kashan is full of beautiful sites, but it is small enough to walk to most of the main sites, where you can get pleasantly lost walking through beautiful lane-ways and if you’re lucky, onto Kashan’s famous rooftops. here you can find the list of what you should visit during your stay in Kashan:

1

Historical Houses of Kashan

It would be a missed opportunity to visit Kashan without exploring its beautiful historical houses. Be sure to spend at least half a day visiting the most famous ones, such as the Tabatabai House, Boroujerdi House, and Abbassian House. Some of these mansions have been converted into boutique hotels, offering visitors a unique chance to experience what it felt like to live in these grand residences. Ameriha mansion is today one of the best boutique hotels of Iran.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Kashan’s wealthy merchants competed to build larger and more luxurious homes, reflecting their status and cultural values. These homes are now architectural masterpieces that showcase the skill and creativity of local architects.

Tabatabai House

The Tabatabai House is one of Kashan’s most famous historical mansions, built in the 19th century by a wealthy carpet merchant. It has four courtyards, beautiful stained-glass windows, and detailed stucco designs on the walls. The house was designed to provide comfort in Kashan’s hot climate, with a traditional windcatcher (badgir) to cool the air. The artistic combination of light and color inside makes it a must-visit attraction.

Tabatabai mansion, Kashan

Boroujerdi House

The Boroujerdi House was built as a wedding gift for the bride of a rich merchant. Its most impressive feature is the large dome above the reception hall, painted with stunning frescoes by the famous Persian artist Kamal-ol-Molk. The house also has tall windcatchers that help cool the building naturally. Its architecture reflects the wealth and taste of Kashan’s prosperous families in the 19th century.

Abbassian House

The Abbassian House is a large, five-story mansion that shows the elegance of traditional Persian design. The house has several hidden passageways, private rooms, and a beautiful courtyard with a pool. The interior is decorated with fine mirror work, stucco art, and stained-glass windows. Its sophisticated design and attention to detail make it one of the most remarkable houses in Kashan.

2

Fin Garden of Kashan

Fin Garden, a 16th-century Persian Garden, is one of the most famous examples of traditional garden design in Iran. The garden’s layout combines elements from the Safavid, Zand, and Qajar architectural styles, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of different eras. The garden is known for its natural springs, tall cypress trees, and numerous pools and fountains fed by the Cheshmeh Sulaimani spring. The garden’s water system, designed with numerous spouts and flowing channels, creates a peaceful atmosphere, making it a symbol of Persian garden artistry.

Fin garden, Kashan

One of the most famous landmarks in Fin Garden is its Persian Hammam (bathhouse), which gained historical significance due to the assassination of Amir Kabir, a prominent prime minister of the Qajar dynasty, in 1852. This tragic event has made the garden a place of historical reflection as well as beauty. The site’s origins date back to the Al-e Buyeh dynasty, but it was destroyed by natural disasters and invasions until it was restored during the Safavid period. Under the guidance of Sheikh Bahai (Scientist), the garden was transformed into a royal pleasure spot during the coronation of King Ismail I Safavid. Today, Fin Garden stands as a UNESCO-recognized masterpiece, blending history, art, and nature.

3

Agha Bozorg Mosque and School in Kashan

The Agha Bozorg Mosque and School is one of the most beautiful attractions in Kashan, showcasing the splendor of traditional Iranian architecture. This complex is a combination of a mosque and a madrasa (religious school) and was built on multiple levels due to the limited size of the land. The structure follows the four principles of Islamic architecture. One of its most remarkable features is its dome, which is supported by eight massive columns, ensuring cool air throughout the year. The mosque is decorated with elegant stucco work, paintings, muqarnas (stalactite-like ornamentation), and tilework, but these embellishments are used in moderation, in keeping with the religious nature of the building.

Agha Bozorg Mosque, Kashan

The mosque’s name is linked to Mulla Mohammad Mehdi Naraqi, a prominent scholar of Kashan. He passed away at the time of his son’s birth, and according to tradition, the son was named after his father. To avoid confusion, the father was referred to as “Agha Bozorg” (the elder) and the son as “Agha Kuchak” (the younger). Agha Kuchak followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a scholar and reaching the status of mujtahid (an authority on Islamic law). It is said that Mohammad Shah Qajar met Agha Kuchak during a visit to Kashan and, impressed by his scholarly knowledge, began calling him “Agha Bozorg” as well. Following this meeting, Haj Mohammad Taghi Khanban, the governor of Kashan and Agha Kuchak’s father-in-law, decided to build the mosque and school for him to teach in. Construction of the mosque was started in 1834 and completed during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar.

4

Bath of Sultan Amir Ahmad – Kashan

Sultan Amir Ahmad Bath is one of the most important historical Iranian Baths in Kashan, which was registered as one of the national heritage of Iran in 1976. This bath covers a total area of 1102 square meters and takes its name from the adjacent Imamzadeh.

Based of information obtained from the artifacts obtained during the earthquake of 1150, this bath was built during the Seljuk period, but its cloak room dates to the Qajar period 19th century. Some people think that the bath was rebuilt on the ruins of the previous hammam and a small bath was added to it. in 1996, The municipality of Kashan bought this historic mosque to save it from destruction by repairing and restoring it.

This Hammam was converted into a traditional restaurant for some time after its renovation, until it was finally turned into a museum and today it is under the supervision of the Kashan city hall. The fascinating decorations, plaster carvings and lime stuccos, blue and gold tiles, vaulted ceilings, murals and stained glass of Sultan Amirahmad Hammam, have made this collection a special and spectacular work.

Also Read: Persian Hammams – All about Traditional Iranian Bath 

5

Sialk Historical Mounds

Approximately 4,500 years BC., a civilization settled in current Kashan who used tools made of stones and bones. There is a possibility that the former residents of this region had succumbed to their successors. Here, Elamite slabs of clay have been found, and due to the links of this community with that of the civilization of Shush (Susa), about 5,500 years ago, they learned to write. Thereby, several clay slabs with the most ancient Elamite script are vestiges of this area. Evidences found in the cemetery between the two hillocks are related to the fresh immigrants to the Sialk Mounds, which bears a strong resemblance to the discoveries in the Giyan Hillock of Nahavand and Khordin of Savoj Bollaq.

Sialk Mounds, Kashan

Sialk Mounds: An Ancient Treasure of Iran

The Sialk Mounds are among the most significant archaeological sites on Iran’s central plateau, home to the ruins of the oldest ziggurat in the country and the birthplace of early urban civilization.

The site consists of two main mounds: the northern mound (Small Sialk), covering around five hectares, and the southern mound (Large Sialk), which spans approximately eight hectares. It also includes two ancient cemeteries, known as Cemetery A and Cemetery B.

Artifacts uncovered at the Sialk Mounds reflect various stages of human history, showcasing the evolution of civilization from the Neolithic era to the Copper and Stone Ages, followed by the urban periods, Bronze and Iron Ages, and eventually the Median period. These layers of history make the site a vital link to Iran’s rich and ancient heritage.

6

Bazaar of Kashan

The Bazaar of Kashan is one of the best bazaars in Iran, showcasing the city’s rich heritage. Dating back to the Safavid era, its winding alleys are lined with shops selling traditional handicrafts, spices, and textiles. The highlight is the Timcheh-ye Amin od-Dowleh, a beautifully decorated caravanserai with a stunning domed ceiling. The bazaar offers a vibrant, authentic atmosphere and is a must-visit for experiencing Kashan’s culture and history.

7

Abyaneh Village

Abyaneh, one of the most fascinating villages of Iran, lies on the north-western slope of Mount Karkas, 28 km from Natanz and 60 km from Kashan. Recognized by UNESCO as a historical village, Abyaneh offers a glimpse of life in ancient rural Iran through its preserved architecture and traditional costumes. Its name originates from “Viyona,” meaning “Place of Willow Trees.” Historically, many residents were Zoroastrians, though they converted to Islam during the reign of Shah Ismail, a Safavid king. Visitors can still find traces of Zoroastrian fire temples, also stories and customs linked to the village’s past.

The village’s compact design features narrow, sloping lanes and homes built on terraced levels, reminiscent of Masouleh. The houses are constructed from red clay, giving Abyaneh its unique color, and feature wooden doors and intricate latticed windows. Many roofs serve as courtyards for the homes above them, adding to the village’s charm. Abyaneh is also surrounded by Iran’s natural attractions, with the dramatic backdrop of the Zagros Mountains enhancing its beauty. As one of Iran’s best off-the-beaten-path places, Abyaneh draws visitors year-round, particularly during cultural events such as Ashura and the New Year holidays.

Read More: Abyaneh Village – Explore Iran’s Historic Red Village

Day Trips Around Kashan

In case you have enough time while in Kashan, you can also enjoy a day trip around:

Abyaneh Village

This 1,500-year-old village is known for its red mud-brick houses and narrow alleys that preserve a centuries-old way of life. The friendly locals often wear traditional dress, creating an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. Visitors can explore historical sites like the village mosque and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Niasar Village

Niasar is a picturesque village famous for its natural and historical attractions. Visit the beautiful waterfall that cascades through the village, offering a serene escape. Explore the ancient fire temple, believed to date back to the Sassanian era, and enjoy the lush gardens and surrounding greenery.

Qamsar

At the heart of Iran’s rosewater production, Qamsar is a must-visit during the rose season (April-May). Walk through fragrant rose gardens and visit a local distillery to see the traditional process of rosewater distillation. Don’t miss the annual rose festival, a vibrant celebration of the village’s heritage.

Maranjab Desert 

A short drive from Kashan, the Maranjab Desert offers stunning landscapes of rolling sand dunes and salt flats. Visitors can enjoy desert trekking, off-road adventures, or camel rides under the vast sky. The highlight of the desert is the 17th-century Maranjab Caravanserai, a historical structure built during the Safavid era. This well-preserved caravanserai once provided shelter for travelers along the Silk Road and now offers a glimpse into Iran’s rich trading history.

Read More: Maranjab Caravanserai 

Nushabad Underground City

One of the most fascinating sites near Kashan is the Nushabad Underground City, a complex network of subterranean tunnels, rooms, and chambers dating back over 1,500 years. Built as a refuge from the region’s scorching heat, the underground city was designed to maintain cool temperatures even in the hottest summers. Explore its intricate layout, with ventilation shafts that allowed air to circulate, and learn about the ingenious methods used by its creators to adapt to the harsh desert climate.

Read More: Nushabad Underground Mystery

FAQs About Kashan Travel

Is Kashan worth visiting?
Absolutely! Kashan is rich in history, culture, and beautiful architecture.

How many days should I spend in Kashan?
Two to three days is ideal to explore the main attractions and take a day trip or two.

What is Kashan famous for?
Kashan is best known for its historical houses, Fin Garden, and rosewater production.

Can I visit Kashan as a day trip from Tehran?
Yes, it’s possible, but staying overnight allows for a more relaxed experience.

Is there public transportation within Kashan?
Kashan is easy to explore on foot, but taxis are readily available for longer distances.