Shiraz

Shiraz is a major city located in southwestern Iran.

It serves as the capital of the Fars province. The city is situated near a seasonal river and experiences a moderate climate.

Today, it is a massive urban center with a very high population. In 2016, the census recorded 1,565,572 people living in the city. The built-up area including Sadra held almost 1,800,000 inhabitants. By 2021, the population had grown to 1,995,500 people. This makes Shiraz the fifth-most-populous city in Iran.

The history of the area stretches back thousands of years. The earliest known reference to the city is found on Elamite clay tablets.

These tablets date back to 2000 BCE. They name a settlement called Tiraziš, which is interpreted as /tiračis/. This name eventually evolved into the modern Persian name, Shirāz. Archaeological finds suggest the vicinity was settled as early as the 6th century BCE. Some scholars believe the site was once a way-station in the plain. Others argue it was a major settlement during the Achaemenid era. This is based on 84 different tablets from the Persepolis Administrative Archives. These records show large groups of up to 490 workers receiving rations.

Following the pre-Islamic era, the modern city underwent several stages of development. The Sasanian dynasty founded the city, and it was later restored in 693 CE.

This restoration was done by the Umayyad Caliphate. The city grew into a prominent power under the Saffarid and Buyid dynasties. In the late 9th century, the Saffarid dynasty made Shiraz their capital. Later, the Buyid dynasty took control in 933. Under the Buyids, Shiraz became the largest and most prosperous city in Fars. It functioned as an important economic and cultural center for the caliphate. The city was even divided into twelve distinct quarters with eight gates.

During the 13th century, Shiraz reached new heights in culture. It became a leading center for arts and letters. This happened because rulers encouraged the presence of Persian scholars and artists. Classical geographers called the city Dar al-'Elm, meaning the "House of Knowledge."

Because of this intellectual reputation, many call it "The Athens of Iran." The city produced famous poets such as Hafez and Saadi.

Their tombs are located on the north side of the current city boundaries. The city also produced important philosophers like Mulla Sadra and mystics like Ruzbehan.

Economic life in Shiraz has always been tied to its surroundings. Historically, the city relied on the agricultural trade of the Fars province. It consumed products like grapes, linen, wool, cotton, and rose water.

Wealthy residents also traded expensive rugs and paintings. In more recent times, the city has developed diverse industrial sectors. Major industries include cement, sugar, fertilizers, and textiles. The city also features a major oil refinery.

Shiraz is a massive hub for electronics. In fact, 53 percent of all electronic investment in Iran is centered in Shiraz.

Shiraz is also famous for its natural beauty and gardens. Many people call it the "city of gardens" or the "city of flowers."

You can see many fruit trees and lush gardens throughout the city. One notable example is the Eram Garden. The city's landscape is a mix of urban life and green spaces.

Even the local crafts reflect this beauty. Artisans create inlaid mosaic work with triangular designs. They also produce high-quality silverware and pile carpets. In the surrounding villages, people weave traditional kilim rugs.

Modern Shiraz continues to grow and connect with the rest of the world. It is one of the top tourist cities in Iran. Visitors come from many different countries to experience its history. The city has also embraced new technology for the environment. Shiraz is home to Iran's very first solar powerplant.

This shows how the city is moving from ancient traditions toward a modern future. The city remains a vital part of Iran's social and economic system.