At the heart of the most historic point of Shiraz, the citadel of Karim Khan, a firm structure with tall walls and guard towers, the memory of the man who made Shiraz his capital. The citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz is not only a simple adobe, but also a living document of the glory of Zandieh, Qajar and the Pahlavi kingdom. This citadel is a combination of Iranian authority, elegance and architecture that revives the sense of respect and admiration in the heart of every visitor.
History of the citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz
The citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz was built in the year 6 AH by the order of Karim Khan Zand, the founder of the Zandieh dynasty. The purpose of the building was to establish a government headquarters alongside his personal settlement in his newly established capital, Shiraz. The citadel quickly became a symbol of Zandieh’s power and was located in the center of the city so that it was close to the market and other urban centers, indicating the full dominance of the country’s affairs. The thick walls of the four defensive towers and its interiors reflect the tact of Iranian architects in the construction of a safe yet magnificent structure. Citadel of Karim Khan was not only a military fortress; Rather, it was a place to run affairs, political meetings and even court celebrations.
The story of the Citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz
The citadel was built with indigenous materials including clay, brick, stone and plaster. Its design was such that it was both defensive and residential. Iranian architects created a structure that found a square and symmetrical shape with four cylindrical towers in a rectangle. One of the towers played a role, and other towers were used to monitor the city and secure. The inner courtyard included porches, gardens, baths, ponds and numerous rooms decorated with colorful tiles and wall paintings. It took about four years to build this citadel, and the presence of master’s from all over Iran added to the beauty and durability of the building.
Citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz in different historical periods
After the fall of the Zandiyah dynasty, the citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz changed its function over time. During the Qajar era, it became the residence of the rulers of the region and was used as a prison during the Pahlavi reign. Despite these changes, the citadel was able to maintain its original structure and protect it from complete destruction. In each period, changes were made to interior design and the use of spaces, but the historical identity and architecture of the citadel remained. On a trip to Shiraz, visit the Lawyer’s Bathroom on your trip.
Karim Khan’s citadel during the Qajar era
During the Qajar period, although the citadel was no longer the center of the central government, it still maintained its importance in local administrative structure and governance. During this period, Fars rulers used the citadel as a residence and government offices. Some interiors have been rebuilt and new decorations such as mirroring and new plaster were added. However, the spirit of Zandieh remained in the citadel, and many of the parts still maintained their original mood. The citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz became more formal and formal at this time, until it was sometimes welcomed by senior domestic and foreign officials.
Karim Khan Shiraz Citadel during the Pahlavi kingdom
During the Pahlavi reign, the citadel was transformed and became a public prisoner from government building. Many of the artwork and interior decorations were damaged during this period, and architectural spaces were changed to maintain prisoners. During this period, the citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz was more commonly known as a security building than a monument. However, in the final years of the Pahlavi regime, efforts to register and protect the building began, which led to the added citadel to the Iranian national monuments list and the list of historical attractions in Shiraz.
Architecture of Karim Khan Shiraz
The architecture of Karim Khan Shiraz is a mixture of simplicity and greatness designed for a multipurpose use. The square plan with four tall towers in the four corners, tall brick walls and coordinated interior are the main features of the building. The towers at a height of about 2 meters have given the citadel a defensive perspective, while the interior of the Iranian architecture exhibits the delicacies of Iranian architecture. The complete guide to Shiraz also introduces you to this beautiful city.
Features of Karim Khan Architecture Index
- Thick Brick Walls: To resist invasion and climatic conditions
- Cylindrical towers in rectangular: with a decorative and decorative use
- Central porches and ponds: for the beauty and cooling of the interior
- Decoration of Tile and Wall Painting: Survings of Zandieh Art
- Traditional bathroom bathroom: A symbol of court welfare and ceremonies
Different sections of the citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz
Citadel Karim Khani has several historical sections to see below:
The wall of the citadel of Karim Khan
The walls of the Karim Khan Shiraz citadel are built with brick and brick materials that are thick to be resistant to attacks and earthquakes. These walls reach a height of about 2 meters and guarantee four cylindrical towers in their corners and protect the citadel. The outer surface of the walls is simple but firm and represents the defense strategy of the architects of that era. Also, these walls have created the interior of the citadel from the bustle of the city and created a quiet and protected environment.
Citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz
Inside the citadel, there is a set of multiple rooms that each had their own use; From government meetings to ruling residence. These rooms are designed in a way that is best ventilated. The interior walls are covered with warm colors and simple decorations to induce a sense of intimacy and dignity. Some rooms with wooden and lattice windows have a pleasant view of the citadel and make the space suitable for long -term stay.
The king
The king of Karim Khan Shiraz is a special and luxurious atmosphere designed as the location of Karim Khan Zand and a reception of special guests. This section has a magnificent and royal look with long ceilings, paintings and beautiful mirrors. The king is located in the backyard and from there a complete view of the whole citadel is visible. The use of high quality materials and different colors in this section shows its special importance and place in the citadel.
Lack of the backyard in the citadel of Karim Khan Zand
The backyard of the citadel is the beating heart of this monument that provides a quiet and lush atmosphere among the tall walls. In this yard there are small gardens with colorful flowers and a few trees that, along with a large pond, convey a sense of life and freshness to visitors. The courtyard was used as a place to relax and think of the inhabitants of the citadel, and it was a private and pleasant atmosphere where there was a special peace.
Bathroom of Karim Khan Zand in Shiraz
The citadel bath is one of the most prominent parts of the building designed with traditional Iranian architecture and equipped heat system. The interior of the bathroom is decorated with dome arches and colored tiles that, in addition to beauty, help maintain the heat and ventilation. This bath was not only a place for washing, but also a place for friendly meetings and even government consultations. The existence of such a bath in the citadel has indicated special attention to court welfare and ceremonies.
Travel to Shiraz with Vanak Star Airlines Tours
If you are planning to travel to Shiraz and visit the Citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz, the Vanak Star Airlines is the best option for your trip. This agency will accompany you in a unique experience from Shiraz by offering complete and varied tours.
- Presentation of Tour Packages with the best hotels in Shiraz
- Professional guidance on historical attractions including the citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz
- Dedicated transfer and patrol services
- 2 -hour support during the trip
- Possibility of combining Shiraz tour with other tourism destinations in Iran
Decoration of Karim Khan Shiraz citadel
The interior and external ornamentation of the citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz is a manifestation of Iranian art that beautifully reflects the history and culture of this region.
Inside the citadel, wall paintings with natural colors, delicate mirrors, and traditional tiles are performed with great delicacy. In addition, wooden carvings and stone columns play an important role in beauty. In the outdoor space, the towers are decorated with simple but effective plaster that are both beautiful and do not reduce their defense performance. Alongside monuments, visiting Shiraz gardens will make your trip more attractive.
Characteristics of Karim Khan Shiraz Citadel
- Wall paintings with flower and shrub designs
- Blue and turquoise tiles with geometric motifs
- Artistic mirrors in the kingdom
- Patriotic stone columns
- Wood carving at entrance doors and windows
- Dummary arches
Where is the Karimkhani citadel?
The citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz is located in the center of the historic city of Shiraz, adjacent to the market and other important historical monuments of this city. This strategic position makes the citadel in the heart of urban life and is easy for tourists and locals. It is located near historical sites such as the Lawyer Mosque, the Lawyer Bath and the Lawyer Market, and visiting it is an integral part of traveling to Shiraz.
Ways to access the Citadel of Karimkhani
- The use of urban taxis operating in downtown
- Walking from the lawyer market that arrives in the citadel in a few minutes
- Public transportation such as downtown buses
- Ability to use personal car and parking lots near the citadel
- Tourist tours of different agencies that visit the citadel in their program
Visit information from Citadel Karimkhani
Days Visit | Hours Visit | Price Tickets (Toman) | Facilities |
All days of the week | 1 am to 6 pm | 4.3 | Help, souvenir store |
Official holidays | 1 am to 6 pm | 4.3 | Parking facilities |
Group visit | With previous coordination | Special discount | Help tour |
Final speech
The citadel of Karim Khan Shiraz is not only a monument but also narrates the glory and ups and downs of Iranian history. Visiting this citadel brings a great experience of Iranian culture, art and architecture. To travel to Shiraz and visit this valuable work, specialized tours of the Vanak Star Airlines have provided a good opportunity to enjoy all the city’s attractions with careful planning. So start your journey with the star of Vanak today and touch the stories of Karim Khan.
Frequently asked questions
- When is Karim Khan’s citadel made?
The citadel was built in the year 6 AH by the order of Karim Khan Zand.
- Is it a cost to visit the citadel of Karim Khan?
Yes, the input ticket is usually sold for around $ 5,000.
- When is the best time to visit the citadel of Karim Khan?
Spring and autumn, due to mild weather, the best time to visit.
- Does Karim Khan have good access to the disabled?
The citadel has limited facilities for people with special needs because of its antiquity, but in some areas facilities are provided.
Copying the contents of the Vanak Star Airlines agency is solely with the source.
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