Ray city is one of the oldest cities in Iran with an age of more than 3000 years, located in Tehran province. This city has various historical, natural and religious attractions. Among other things, ancient towers, fire temples and shrines, it is a popular destination for tourists. In this article, you will get to know the sights of Ray city and its surroundings so that you can experience a historical and fascinating one-day trip.
Introducing the city of Ray; A city with 10 thousand years of human habitation
The city of Ray, which is considered one of the oldest cities in Iran, has a rich history and full of important stories. This city, which has been one of the civilizational centers of Iran since the pre-Islamic era until today, is considered one of the most important tourist destinations near Tehran. Ray has always been an attractive place for historical and religious tourists with various ancient works from different periods such as Medes, Sassanids and Islamic eras.
In addition to its historical position, Ray has played an important role in Iranian culture and religion. This city has been the residence of prominent Islamic scholars and cultural leaders in different periods and has played an important role in the development of Islamic sciences and knowledge. The existence of the tombs of religious elders such as Shah Abd al-Azim Hosni and Imamzadehs has turned this city into an important religious center.
Among the attractions of Rey city, we can mention Toghrel Tower, Cheshme Ali, Bibi Shahrabano, and Ray Temple. Each of these places represent different historical and cultural periods of this city and show well how Ray has been the center of civilization and culture throughout its history. Visiting this city gives travelers a unique opportunity to get to know the history and culture of Iran closely and take a trip to the distant past.
In these years, despite the urban growth and development, Ray still maintains its historical and cultural characteristics and is still considered as one of the important tourist destinations in Iran. By exploring the streets and alleys of this city, you can clearly see the works and signs of the past and understand the depth of Iran’s history.
The sights of Ray city are less known, just like the sights of Tehran, and the residents of these two cities sometimes forget in which city they live.
1. Bahram Fire Temple; A relic of the Sassanid era
Bahram Fire Temple, which is also known as the Hill of Desire, is one of the ancient relics of the Sasanian era and one of the Zoroastrian religious centers. This fire temple is located near the city of Ray and in the heights, and because of its appearance, which can be seen from a distance, it is known as Mill hill. Despite the destruction caused to this building over time, the remains of this fire temple are still an attraction for those interested in history and ancient architecture. Visiting this place can show visitors a picture of Sasanian culture and religious beliefs.
Address of Bahram Fire Temple: Shahrari, 12 km southeast of Shahrari, Chale Tarkhan village
2. Tomb of Gholamreza Takhti; The last khan of the warrior world
The tomb of Jahan Pahlan Gholamreza Takhti is one of the most important and popular places for those interested in sports and history in Ray city. This tomb is located in the Ibn Babouye cemetery and hosts many tourists, athletes, and wrestling lovers every year who come to this place to pay their respects to one of the greatest heroes in the history of Iranian sports.
Address of Takhti tomb: Shahrari, Ibn Babouye
3. Toghrel Tower; A clock that tells history
Toghrel tower is one of the important works of the Seljuk era in the city of Rey, which was a sundial with a height of 20 meters. The intelligent design of this tower was such that it provided the possibility to determine the time by the sun’s rays. Tughrel Tower, which is located near the tomb of Ibn Babouyeh, was used as a guide for travelers and caravans in the past. The unique architecture of the tower and its important role in daily life have made this building one of the must-see attractions of Ray. Today, visitors can visit this tower and other historical monuments nearby, such as Ibn Babouyeh’s tomb. Toghrel Tower is one of the most attractive sights in Ray city and even in Iran.
Toghrel tower address:Ray, east of the tomb of Ibn Babouyeh
4. Bibi Shahrabano tomb; Tomb of the wife of Imam Hussain (AS)
The tomb of Bibi Shahrabano, which is located on a mountain in the south of Tehran, is considered one of the important shrines of Ray city. According to popular beliefs, Bibi Shahrabano is the wife of Imam Hussein (AS) and the mother of Imam Zainul Abdin (AS). In addition to spirituality and sanctity, this place has beautiful and relaxing views due to its natural location. Some researchers believe that this place was one of Zoroastrian places of worship before Islam. Visiting this tomb brings a spiritual and historical experience to pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
Address of Bibi Shahrabano’s tomb: Shahrari, Amin Abad Road, Bibi Shahrabano Road
5. Chasme Ali; An eight thousand year old gem
Cheshme Ali is one of the oldest and most well-known natural and historical attractions in the city of Ray, which dates back to eight thousand years. This spring flows from the heart of big rocks. In the past, it was the main source of water in the region and a place for Tehranis to wash their carpets. People believed that the water of this spring increases the brightness and cleanliness of the carpets. This place is a special attraction for those interested in history and tourism not only because of its clear water and beautiful nature, but also because of the discovery of ancient monuments around it. Cheshme Ali, with its relaxing and historical atmosphere, has become one of the popular tourist destinations for nature lovers and history buffs.
Cheshme Ali address: Shahri Ray, between Safaiye Blvd and Shahid Ghiori Blvd
6. The prominent role of Fath Ali Shah Qajar; A historical image in the heart of the stone
The prominent figure of Fath Ali Shah Qajar is one of the important artistic and historical works of Ray city, which is located at the foot of Cheshme Ali Mountain. This portrait was carved by the order of Fath Ali Shah, the second Qajar king, and shows him sitting on the throne with a dagger in his hand. This work is a symbol of the power and greatness of the Qajar period and is considered one of the outstanding examples of the stone carving art of that period. Despite the passage of time, the prominent figure of Fath Ali Shah still retains its accuracy and elegance and is the focus of visitors. For those interested in the history and architecture of Iran, visiting this work of art is an opportunity to learn about the glory of the Qajar era and the art of carving.
Address of the relief of Fath Ali Shah: Shahrari, Shamal Shahrari, Cheshme Ali
7. Baroi Ray; A wall left by females
Re baroui is one of the oldest ancient monuments of the city of Re, which dates back to the Medes. This defensive wall, which played a key role in the protection of the city in the past, was built during the Parthians and Medes, and its length is more than three meters. Ray barrage was very important for defending the city and controlling the entry and exit of caravans and travelers. Today, the remains of this ancient wall are still standing and it is one of the relics left from the ancient era of Iran, which stands in the heart of the city of Ray. Visiting Ray’s barrage gives visitors an opportunity to get to know the defense structure of cities in ancient times and to better understand the history and civilization of Iran.
Address of Ray Baru: Above the prominent figure of Fath Ali Shah
8. Tomb of Jawanmard Kasab; A story from legend to reality
The tomb of Javanmard Kasab is one of the historical and religious places of Ray city, which is attributed to the legendary and popular Iranian character, Javanmard Kasab. He is known as a symbol of justice and kindness in popular culture and his tomb is a place of respect and pilgrimage for people. Some historians associate him with the name of Abu al-Abbas Kasab Amoli. One who was so called because of his outstanding moral qualities. The tomb of Jawanmard Kasab, with its simple and spiritual architecture, has a relaxing atmosphere that always attracts pilgrims and those interested in Iranian history and legends. This place is a place where legends and historical facts are mixed and keeps a story of goodness and chivalry alive.
Jawanmard Kasab’s address: Ray, Kamil St
9. Ashgabat lagoon; Paradise of birds in Del Rey
Ashgabat lagoon is one of the most pristine and beautiful natural attractions of Ray city, which is a refuge for migratory birds. This wetland is located 25 km from Ray and with more than 140 species of birds recorded, it is considered one of the best places for bird watching near Tehran. Migratory birds turn this wetland into a beautiful and relaxing place in spring and autumn. Also, the vegetation surrounding the lagoon, including long reeds, has provided a pleasant and natural environment for tourists. Ashgabat Wetland, with its beautiful nature and easy access, is a pleasant place for those interested in nature tourism and bird watching.
Ashgabat lagoon address: 25 kilometers from the center of Ray city, two kilometers from Ashgabat village
10. Shah Abdulazim’s shrine; A shrine for all Iranians
The shrine of Shah Abdul Azim is one of the most important and popular pilgrimage sites in Iran, which is visited by many pilgrims from all over the country every year. This holy place is the burial place of Abdulazim Hosni, one of the descendants of Imam Hassan Mojtabi (AS), who has a special place in Shiite history. The shrine of Shah Abdul Azim with its golden dome and magnificent architecture is important not only as a religious center, but also as a historical and cultural work. This shrine, with beautiful courtyards and porticoes and a history that goes back to different periods, is a spiritual and artistic place that always affects the souls and minds of pilgrims. The combination of art and religion has made this place one of the sights of Ray city.
Address of Shah Abdulazim shrine: Shahreri, Modares Street, Modares Square
11. Gabri Castle; A castle with two thousand years of history
Gabri Castle is one of the oldest ancient structures in the city of Rey, which dates back to more than two thousand years ago and the Sassanid era. This castle, which was used as a defensive fortress in the old days, protected the city and helped to control the surrounding areas. The high and strong walls of the castle are made of clay and mud, and with the passage of time, it has still preserved a part of its greatness. Visiting this castle is a special opportunity for those interested in history and ancient architecture to learn about the history of defense and the structure of Iran’s ancient castles.
Address of Gabri Castle: Ray, Alaei settlement
12. Rashkan Fortress; The ancient guardian of Ray
Reshkan fortress is one of the important military structures in the city of Rey, which was built during the Parthian era to protect the city and prevent enemy attacks. This fortress, which is based on the top of a mountain, is made of stone and mortar, and due to its strategic location, it provided the possibility of monitoring large parts of the city. The remains of Reshkan Fortress still show the defensive strength of this structure in the past. Visiting Rashkan Fortress is an opportunity for history enthusiasts to get to know one of the important defense centers of ancient Iran and enjoy the beautiful and historical scenery around.
Address of Rashkan Fort: Shahreri, near Safaiye neighborhood and Cheshme Ali hill
13. Harun al-Rashid prison; A historical building with hidden secrets
Harun al-Rashid Prison, an ancient building in the city of Ray, is a name that is linked to this building in legend. This two-story building, which is located 12 kilometers from Khorasan road, contrary to its name, was never used as a prison and according to many historians, it was originally a fire temple built during the Sasanian era. With the passage of time and the introduction of various legends, this building was known as Harun Al-Rashid Prison. Despite these legends, its strong and unique architecture is still of interest to visitors and history buffs, and secrets about its past remain shrouded in mystery.
Address of Harun Al-Rashid prison: Shahrari, 12 km from Khorasan road, Serah Siman, on the left side at the foot of Mesgarabad mountains
14. Ray market; A market that has history in it
Ray historical market is one of the oldest markets in Iran. This bazaar was rebuilt by order of Amir Kabir and played an important role in the trade and economy of this city in the past. This market, with its traditional structure and special architecture, takes visitors to the old and cultural world of Iran. In the historical market of Ray, you can find all kinds of old goods and souvenirs specific to this region. The atmosphere of this market is still lively and visiting it is considered a great opportunity to experience traditional shopping and get to know the business culture of Ray city.
Ray Bazaar address: Ray city, Ray market
15. Ibn Babouye cemetery; Tomb of Iranian celebrities
Ibn Babouye cemetery is one of the oldest and most important tombs in Tehran, which is considered the burial place of many great and famous people of Iran. This cemetery is at the top of the list of places to see in Ray city. This cemetery takes its name from Sheikh Sadouq, a prominent Shiite scholar, whose octagonal tomb with its mirror-work decorations and Roman arches is located in this place. Ibn Babouyeh cemetery is culturally important because it is the burial place of celebrities. Among the celebrities resting in this baboyeh, we can mention historical figures such as Gholamreza Takhti, a famous Iranian fighter, Rahim Mouzanzadeh Ardabili, a well-known caller, and Ali Akbar Dehkhoda, a prominent writer and politician. This cemetery is not only a place of pilgrimage but also a symbol of Iranian history and culture.
Address of Ibn Babouyeh; Ray, east of the tomb of Ibn Babouyeh
16. Tomb of Sheikh Sadouq; Ibn Babouyeh
As it was said, the name of Ibn Babouyeh cemetery is derived from the name of “Abu Jaafar Muhammad bin Ali bin Hussain” nicknamed “Sheikh Sadouq”. Sheikh Sadouq was one of the greatest Shia jurisprudents and muhadith scholars in the 4th century AH, who has left many valuable works in various fields of jurisprudence, hadith and belief. In addition to its religious value, this tomb has also attracted the attention of many researchers and those interested in the history and culture of Iran due to its beautiful and old architecture. The tomb of Sheikh Sadouq is one of the attractive places in the city of Ray.
The address of the tomb of Sheikh Sadouq; Ray, the tomb of Ibn Babouyeh
17. Nagarkhane Mountain or Tabarak Mountain (Nagarkhane Tower and Amir Inanj Dome)
Mount Naqarkhane or Mount Tabarak is one of the historical mountains of Ray city, where many ancient monuments have been left. In the book “History of Tabaristan, Royan and Mazandaran” a big hill named Tabarak is mentioned, which is said to be the first fortress of Alam.
Naqarakhane tower, which is located in the northern area of Amin Abad and on top of Ray mountain, with a height of about three meters, was built about 1000 years ago by a person named “Great Hope”. Some researchers believe that this tower may be the tomb of one of the Seljuk kings.
There are differences of opinion about the exact identity of this tower and its dome. Some sources attribute it to the royal cemetery of Al-Buyeh and Fakhr al-Dawlah, while others relate it to Emir Inanj, the governor of Ray during the Seljuk period.
Tabarak Castle was a historical fortress in Ray, part of its walls and fences were left from the time of the Abbasid caliphs. This castle was destroyed by order of Tughrel Seljuq. Also, the image of Bahram Ghor, which was carved on top of the mountain, was changed to the image of Fath Ali Shah during the Qajar era and was later destroyed due to the activities of the Ray Cement Factory.
Address of Koh Nagarkhane: North of Amin Abad
Ray tourism map on Google Map
You can see the sights of Ray city on this Google map.
final word
Ray city has an ancient history and various historical and natural attractions and is one of the most important tourist destinations near Tehran. This city, with its ancient buildings such as Rashkan Fortress and Gebri Castle and shrines such as Shah Abd al-Azim’s shrine, brings a memorable memory to the visitors. In this article, we had a look at the sights of Ray city. Is there a special place in Ray city that less people know about? Where do you like Ray the most?
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