Iran

Azadi Tower

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Azadi Tower, the Iconic Symbol of Tehran

Most of the tourists who have visited the capital of Iran associate this city with Azadi Tower. The architectural type and location of this tower are two factors that play an important role in this fame. You can rarely find a photo of Tehran, having captured in recent 5 years, that doesn’t depict this tower in its background.

Many tourists take a photo with this white great tower as soon as they arrive Tehran. The green flowered space around this structure is a place where most of citizens make their appointments. While strolling in the lower area of the tower, you will observe the mesmerizing details of exterior architecture, which is an integration of art and geometry.

Azadi Tower

When was Azadi Tower Constructed?

Azadi Tower was constructed about 50 years ago in the reign of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The process of constructing this tower took 28 months; finally, its was launched in 1971. The inaugural ceremony of this tower hosted about 3000 Iranian and foreign guests. In this ceremony, Cyrus human rights cylinder was unveiled.

The main purpose to construct this structure was to commemorate the 2500th year of the Persian Empire. On this occasion, the Pahlavi wanted to design a square in the capital as the symbol of “modern Iran” and “the gate of the great civilization in the 20th century”.

To design this tower, a competition was held in which young experienced architects participated. As the reward, the designer of the top scheme was given the privilege of managing this architectural project. Finally, Hossein Amanat, the 24-year architecture graduated from Tehran University, won the competition and was tasked to run this project.

Azadi Tower, the Most Important Center of Iran Contemporary Events

It didn’t take too long that Azadi Tower became the scene of political events, where different political groups gathered. In addition, the protestations taking place in different regions of the capital mostly led to this tower.

First this tower was known as Shahyad, but renamed to Azadi (literally means freedom) after the 1979 Revolution. After a passage of time, this landmark became the symbol of unity to achieve freedom. Above all, it was a focal point for demonstration in the Islamic Revolution. This huge white structure is still in use for the official and unofficial gatherings of Iranians.

Nowruz ceremony in Azadi Tower

Azadi Tower; an Integration of Achaemenid, Sassanid and Islamic Architecture

Azadi Tower has a unique architectural style. This construction has 4 floors that are connected with an elevator and two staircases. In the area underneath the tower, there are a few showrooms, a gallery and a museum.

This structure is an integration of Achaemenid, Sassanid and Islamic architectural style. The parallel lines applied in base of this tower is a sign of Achaemenid architecture. The main arch of the tower is also inspired by the Sassanid-era Kasra Vault.

All the decorations applied in the lower part of the vaults are derived from Rasmi-bandi Art, an Islamic architecture pattern. It is interesting to know that the fountain constructed in that area is based on Persian garden style. On the upper floors, there are some vertical grooves resembling a windcatcher that helps with air-conditioning as well as its architectural beauty. This element is widely used in the traditional architecture of Iran.

The façade of this tower includes two huge arches that are connected with each other in the upper side. The turquoise-colored grooves engraved on this structure have also added the artisan delicacy of this monument.
In the following, we introduce some of the most important parts of this tower:

a near view of Azadi Tower

A Short Visit to Iran by Visiting Iranology Hall

Iranology Hall familiarize you with cultural and climate characteristics of Iran. In this hall, a huge Iran’s map, including the symbols of different provinces, is displayed. It also contains a mechanical conveyor that moves in U route and allows visitors to visit the hall in comfort.

Ancestors Passage

In the entrance of the tower, there is a hall where several showcases have been dedicated to historical objects and artworks. This hall, known as Ancestors Passage, catches the attractions due to the architectural style and the stone doors. The lightning of this hall is also an evocative of the Iranian cellars.

Ancestor Passage

Ancient Hall, the Main Hall of Azadi Tower

Ancient hall is a precious treasury of the Qajar-era objects most of which have moved from Saadabad Complex. This hall also displays some of the prominent artworks.

Multi-vision Hall

Multi-vision hall is; used for concert, theater and conference; is equipped to the highest-tech light, sound and vision.

concert performance in Multi Vision Hall

The Upper Floors of Azadi Tower

The upper floors of the tower offer an eye-catching view to the square and surrounding streets. Especially, the last floor where a turquoise dome stands. You can watch the spectacular scene of night and illuminations around the tower through the windows, located at the height of 59 meter.

The Upper Floors of Azadi Tower

Azadi Tower, the Western Gate of Tehran

Entering the western face of Tehran, the first thing that takes your notice is Azadi Tower. That is why it is called the western gate of Tehran. It is the first symbol of urban architecture that tourists view on arrival. Mehrabad Airport and Bus Terminals are located close to this monument.

Azadi Tower is located at a point that communitive ways are connected. Above all, it is considered the beginning of the street that connects west and east of Tehran. So, you can reach to Azadi Terminal from every point of Tehran.

Visiting Azadi Tower and Understanding the Beauties of its Modern and Traditional Architecture

On your trip to Iran, make sure to visit this tower. This splendid monument almost includes in all the tours that start and end in Tehran. You can compare all these tours by studying their itineraries.

You can view all Tehran-included tours that are offered by 1001 Nights Tours here. To know more about other monuments of Tehran, click here. Feel free to email us for special and thematic tours.

 

 

 

 

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Country: IRAN
City: Tehran