Best time to visit Iran

Persian Rugs in Iran

Immerse yourself into the diverse and colorful world of Persian rugs which encompass many cultures and traditions

Best time: all year round

Persian Rugs
Persian Rugs
Persian Rugs
Persian Rugs

The former Persian Empire has a reputation for being home to the world's finest carpets. Iranian carpets or Persian rugs, as they are more commonly referred to, reveal the hidden histories and ancient traditions passed down from generation to generation, absorbing different cultural patterns through the centuries.

Modern-world Iran encompasses a great variety of carpets, from rustic village rugs to the city or palatial carpets made of silk and gold, created for sultans and emperors. Initially, the carpets were mainly woven and used by nomadic tribesmen as a necessity to protect themselves from cold and damp by covering the floors of their shelters. Over time, invaders, politicians, and Iran’s enemies have left their mark on Iran’s carpets, and the activity developed into the whole industry and set up a manifold artistic tradition of the enduring works of art that embody timeless elegance and grace.

The process of carpet making is very time consuming as stringing and knotting thousands of threads can take from several months up to a year. Only then the rug is cut, washed, and put out in the sun to dry. There is a joke that Iranians are born on carpets, live their lives, and see their last day on these woven masterpieces.

The carpets are usually cleaned and washed by hand and then left to dry on roofs when the weather is warm. So don't be surprised to see many colorful rugs if you explore Iran from the air.

When traveling across Iran, you can learn more about the carpet weaving techniques and regional styles. Some of the most famous carpet regions of Iran include East Azerbaijan (with capital Tabriz) in the northwest, Isfahan in the center, and Kerman in the southeast. Each of these regions boats a specific style.

Practical info

Where are the most famous carpet regions in Iran?

Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan, is home to unique carpet styles and intricate designs. Isfahan, located in the country's center, is recognized for exquisite symmetrical patterns and colors. Kerman, a city in the southeast, is well-known for producing durable and resistant carpets designed for long-term use. Show more

When did Iranian carpets develop into a whole industry?

Initially, nomadic tribesmen wove carpets for warmth. Over time Persian rug-weaving evolved thanks to invaders and politicians who left their influence. Persian carpet weaving eventually became an industry creating manifold artistic traditions. The result is enduring works of art that embody timeless elegance and grace. Show more

How long does it take to make a Persian rug?

It takes several months up to a year to weave a Persian rug using a hand-knotting process. Preparing, stringing, and knotting the threads is time-consuming. To finish the process, the carpets are cut, washed, and left to dry under the sun. The time, effort, and cultural significance behind these woven masterpieces are significant. Show more

What is the process of cleaning and drying a Persian rug?

Persian carpets are meticulously cleaned and washed by hand to maintain their shape and vivid colors. When weather permits, the carpets are placed on rooftops to dry under the sun. Drying and washing can take several days, but the result is a beautiful, clean, and restored rug that maintains its original design and color. Show more

What cultural patterns can be found in Iranian carpets?

Persian carpets incorporate cultural patterns from various civilizations that have ruled Iran. Islamic influence often features artistic calligraphy with Arabic text, while tribal designs tend to incorporate a vase-like design. Chinese influence features central motifs, floral designs, and dragons. Persian carpet designs are unique to their region, intricate, and symmetrical. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin