Update Date: December 16, 2024
Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Tehran, Iran, lies a gem of architectural grandeur – the Marble Palace, also known as Marmar Palace. Its name alone conjures images of opulence and splendor, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at its magnificence.
As you step through the carved doors of the Marble Palace, you are transported to a world of timeless elegance and regal charm. The palace is a testament to Iran’s rich cultural heritage, with its walls adorned with exquisite marble that speak volumes of the country’s artistic prowess.
Built during the Qajar era in the mid-19th century, the Marble Palace served as a royal residence for Persian monarchs, providing a sanctuary where they could revel in luxury and entertain distinguished guests. Every corner of the palace whispers tales of bygone eras testifies to the craftsmanship and attention to detail of its creators.
But the Marble Palace is not merely a relic of the past; it remains a vibrant hub of culture and history, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its stories. From its breathtaking gardens to its majestic halls, every inch of the palace exudes an air of sophistication and allure.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Marble Palace promises an unforgettable experience. So join us as we embark on a journey through time and explore the wonders of this architectural masterpiece. Let’s unravel the secrets of the Marble Palace together and uncover the hidden treasures that lie within its walls.
Facts about Marble Palace (Marmar Palace)
- Marble Palace, also known as Marmar Palace, is a renowned museum located in Tehran .
- The museum houses a diverse collection of artifacts from Iranian culture and civilization.
- One of the hallmarks of Marble Palace is the Toranj Hall, where silk carpets and textiles from the Safavid and Qajar periods are displayed.
- The Khatam Hall, measuring eight meters in length and six meters in width, is intricately adorned with seal carvings, making it one of the most elegant sections of the palace.
- The Calligraphy Hall is dedicated to the art of calligraphy and inscription, featuring handwritten manuscripts and valuable calligraphy instruments.
- In the Industry Hall, visitors can explore examples of ancient Iranian architectural works, including wooden doors and intricately carved ceiling panels from the Qajar period.
- Formerly known as the Half-Mirror Hall, the Light Hall boasts captivating architecture and decorations, along with valuable artifacts such as the curtain of the House of God.
- The Painting Hall, located on the upper floor, showcases paintings from the late Qajar period and artworks from painting in Iran over the past hundred years.
- Visitors are prohibited from bringing personal belongings such as bags and mobile phones inside the museum.
- Before entering, guests must deposit their items at the cloakroom for safekeeping.
- The Mirror Hall, characterized by its exquisite beauty, measures 14 meters in length, 10 meters in width, and 7 meters in height, with mirrors adorning all its walls and ceiling.
- It is said that around a ton of silver was used in the Mirror Hall, highlighting its astonishing grandeur.
- The museum’s exhibitions offer insights into Iranian art, history, and culture, spanning various historical periods.
- Marble Palace is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the rich heritage of Iran.
Where Is Marble Palace?
The Marble Palace is located in the heart of Tehran, on the renowned Valiasr Street. To be more precise, it sits between Imam Khomeini Street and Republic Street, with a distance of 1.4 kilometers to Valiasr Square, 4.4 kilometers to Enqelab Square, and 8.4 kilometers to Azadi Square.
This majestic palace as one of the most beautiful palaces in Iran stands as a symbol of Iran’s rich history and cultural heritage, beckoning travelers and history enthusiasts alike to explore its grandeur and unravel the mysteries hidden within its walls. With its prime location and fascinating history, the Marble Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and splendor of Tehran.
History of Marble Palace
The history of the Marble Palace in Tehran is akin to an ancient sage, having witnessed numerous historical events and the passage of time over roughly a century. Construction of the Marble Palace commenced in 1925 under the orders of Reza Shah Pahlavi, with prominent Armenian-Iranian architect Leon Tadolini at the helm. Nearly a decade later, in 1937, the palace’s construction culminated. Legend has it that Reza Shah commissioned the palace to showcase his power and sovereignty to the world.
Upon completion, the palace served as the office and winter residence of Reza Shah. Its name, Marble Palace, stems from the abundant use of marble in its decorations. One of the palace’s earliest encounters was witnessing the abdication of Reza Shah, also known as Pahlavi I, in 1941.
Following the ascension of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the Marble Palace transformed into the residence of the young Shah and his first wife, Queen Fawzia. Moreover, their wedding ceremony took place within its walls. During the early years of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi’s reign, the Marble Palace served as the official office and venue for meetings, receptions, and diplomatic gatherings. However, after the tragic assassination of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi in the palace grounds by Reza Shams-Aabadi in 1965, the Shah’s office relocated to Sahebqaranieh Palace.
In 1976, to familiarize the public with the Pahlavi family, the Marble Palace was converted into a museum, accessible to all until 1978. After the Islamic Revolution in the 1970s, the palace became the headquarters of the Expediency Discernment Council and the office of Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, the council’s secretary. Meetings of the Expediency Discernment Council were also held within these walls.
Following the passing of Hashemi Rafsanjani, the Marble Palace came under the ownership of the Foundation of the Oppressed and was converted into a museum in 2018, renamed as the Iran Art Museum. Today, this museum welcomes visitors to explore a treasury of Iranian artworks spanning from the 5th millennium BCE to the contemporary e
Marble Palace Sections
The Art Museum building is really big, covering an area of 2,870 square meters, and it has a beautiful garden that’s three and a half hectares large. The outside of the building, made by famous Iranian architects and artists, is made of green marble with pretty designs of flowers and animals, like the old Achaemenid art. Inside, there are two floors with lots of rooms that tell the story of Iranian art from different times.
On the first floor, there are three rooms that show off some of the best Iranian and Islamic art, like fancy decorated pots and dishes, going all the way back to ancient times and up to the early Islamic era. Then, on the second floor, there are nine rooms filled with amazing Iranian art in lots of areas like painting, writing, making things with threads, adding pretty lights to books, and putting covers on books.
When you visit the museum, you start by going to the right side of the first floor. If you want to go up to the second floor and see all the cool rooms there, you have to walk through a hallway that’s decorated with really interesting stuff that catches your eye and makes you want to look closer.
Each floor has different rooms. On the first floor, there’s a place to wait, an office area, a room for ancient art, one for Islamic Iranian art, two ancient halls, a room for meetings, a place to pray, and more. On the second floor, there are rooms for carving things, looking at colors, special ceremonies, checking yourself out in mirrors, writing pretty words, putting seals on things, seeing how things are made, looking at paintings, and a room with lots of light.
Entrance Hall
Upon entering the Marble Palace, prepare to be enchanted by the exquisite array of interior decorations that greet you. The vestibule boasts a ceiling adorned with intricate plasterwork and paintings featuring a lush green motif, perfectly complementing the grandeur of the surroundings. Adding to the opulence, the walls are enveloped in yellow marble, rising gracefully to a meter in height. Ascending the staircase, crafted from the finest marble, you’ll be mesmerized by the delicate motifs of flowers, bushes, and leaves adorning its balustrades.
A highlight of the entrance hall is undoubtedly its domed room, reminiscent of the majestic dome of the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, captivating visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Adorning the northern and southern walls of the entrance hall are splendid paintings depicting iconic landmarks such as:
- Persepolis;
- Apadana Palace;
- Kharg Island;
- and the Veresk Bridge.
These masterpieces, created by the talented German artist Albert Hoenemann, add a touch of historical grandeur to the space. Furthermore, the western and eastern walls feature two monumental narrative paintings, standing six meters tall, adorned with intricate reliefs, skillfully crafted by the renowned artist Hossein Taherzadeh Behzad.
Nestled in the corner of the vestibule, gypsum corbels resembling delightful candy-shaped lanterns enhance the allure of the space, contributing to its unique charm and elegance.
Ancient Art Hall
The Marble Palace’s Ancient Art Hall, true to its name, is a repository of the oldest artifacts unearthed from Iranian civilization, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region. These ancient relics, carefully curated in this hall, serve as invaluable treasures for archaeologists, shedding light on the artistic expressions of ancient times.
Among the diverse array of artifacts housed within the Ancient Art Hall are figurines dating back to the first millennium BCE, believed to originate from Lorestan. Also on display are intricately adorned pottery pieces dating back to the fifth millennium BCE, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient Iranian artisans. Visitors can marvel at cone-shaped incised pottery from the fourth millennium BCE, discovered in Bakun, Fars, providing insight into ancient pottery techniques and designs.
Furthermore, the Ancient Art Hall boasts a three-bowl pottery vessel, crafted using both wheel-thrown and handmade techniques, dating back to the first millennium BCE and discovered in northwestern Iran. A highlight of the collection is a figurine depicting an Elamite mother goddess from the second millennium BCE, discovered in Khuzestan, offering a glimpse into ancient religious beliefs and practices.
Additionally, incised pottery from the third millennium BCE, discovered in western Iran, showcases the evolution of pottery-making in the region. Each artifact in the Ancient Art Hall tells a unique story of ancient Iranian civilization, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Ancient Hall- Number 1
Ancient Hall One invites you to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of pre-Islamic Iranian art, spanning the glorious epochs of the Achaemenids, Parthians, and Sassanians. Here, you’ll encounter a diverse array of artifacts showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of ancient Iranian civilizations.
Among the treasures on display are stunning necklaces meticulously crafted from materials like stone, agate, and glass, reflecting the exquisite taste of ancient Iranians in adornment. A highlight of the collection is a remarkable Achaemenid rhyton, a ceremonial drinking vessel dating back 2,500 years, renowned for its intricate design and historical significance.
Additionally, pottery vessels from the Parthian era provide insights into ancient Iranian pottery-making techniques, while a glass statue depicting a Sassanian king offers a glimpse into the artistic achievements of the Sassanian dynasty.
Ancient Hall- Number Two
Ancient Hall Two serves as a bridge between the late Sassanian period and the early Islamic era, showcasing artifacts that illuminate the cultural transition during this pivotal time in Iranian history. With the rise of Islam, profound changes swept through artistic expressions, leaving an indelible mark on the art of the region.
Notably, pottery-making flourished during this era, as evidenced by the abundance of pottery pieces unearthed from ancient cities like Shush, Nishapur, and Gorgan. These artifacts bear witness to the evolving artistic landscape of Iran, reflecting the fusion of Sassanian traditions with emerging Islamic influences.
The Islamic Iranian Art Hall
The Islamic Iranian Art Hall beckons visitors to behold a magnificent display of artistic mastery spanning from the early Islamic centuries to the Qajar period. Here, the Marble Palace showcases a breathtaking array of architectural marvels, intricate woodcarvings, ornate pottery, gilded tiles, and exquisite calligraphy and paintings.
Each artifact tells a story of the ingenuity and skill of Iranian artists throughout history, captivating visitors with their beauty and craftsmanship. As you explore this hall, you’ll be transported through centuries of Iranian artistry, from the elegance of Islamic architecture to the intricacy of miniature painting.
Upon leaving the Islamic Iranian Art Hall, you’ll enter the second vestibule, adorned with photographs of the Marble Palace’s architects and captivating watercolor paintings from the Isfahan School. Beyond this vestibule lies the stairway to the halls of the second floor, where further wonders await discovery.
The Painting Hall
Ascending to the second floor of the Marble Palace, you’ll step into the enchanting world of the Painting Hall. This hall serves as a gallery for showcasing artworks from the Qajar period, a fascinating era in Iranian history marked by rich artistic expression. As you wander through the hall, your eyes will be drawn to the beautiful and captivating paintings that adorn its walls. These artworks, created on canvas and as wall murals, offer a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of the Qajar era.
Among the remarkable pieces showcased in the Painting Hall, one depicts the historic meeting between Shah Tahmasb and Humayun Shah, capturing a pivotal moment in Iranian history. Another masterpiece by a skilled artist portrays a dramatic battle scene from Iran during the 13th century AH, showcasing the bravery and valor of its warriors. Each painting tells a story, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Iran’s cultural hhistory.
Mirror Hall
The Mirror Hall stands out as the most striking part of the Marble Palace. People often think of the Marble Palace as synonymous with the Mirror Hall because of its extraordinary beauty. This hall is quite spacious, measuring 14 meters long, 10 meters wide, and 7 meters high. What makes it truly remarkable is that every inch of its walls and ceiling is covered with mirrors, reflecting light and creating a dazzling effect.
Once upon a time, the Mirror Hall served as the office of the first Pahlavi Shah. Because of its prestigious role, every detail of its design and furnishings was carefully chosen to exude majesty and elegance. It’s astonishing to think that about a ton of silver was used in this hall, emphasizing its opulence.
Every aspect of the Mirror Hall, from the wooden curtains to the delicate mirror decorations, is crafted from silver. The intricacy of the mirror works, combined with the silver fittings, adds to the hall’s grandeur and splendor. One cannot help but marvel at the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating this magnificent space.
One of the hall’s most prized possessions is the “Namoaghli” carpet. This carpet is not only one of Iran’s most valuable pieces but also one of its largest. Skilled artists specially wove this carpet for the Mirror Hall, adding to its uniqueness and prestige. The “Namoaghli” carpet, with its intricate designs and vibrant colors, adds warmth and richness to the already luxurious ambiance of the hall. It’s truly a sight to behold and a testament to the beauty and artistry of Iranian craftsmanship.
The Color Hall
Formerly known as the Banquet Hall, the Color Hall stands as a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Marble Palace. Stepping into this hall, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking display of architectural marvels, artistic paintings, and splendid plasterworks that adorn every corner. The ceiling, adorned with skillfully crafted plasterworks by Master Hasan Rezai, exudes charm and elegance, adding to the hall’s allure.
In addition to its architectural beauty, the Color Hall is adorned with exquisite paintings that depict scenes from Persian literature, such as tales of love, heroism, and adventure. These paintings, alongside intricate reliefs embellishing the walls, create a mesmerizing ambiance that transports visitors to another world. Moreover, the large-sized wall paintings, perfectly proportionate to the space, further enhance the hall’s grandeur, leaving visitors in awe of its magnificence.
Toranj Hall
In the Toranj Hall of the Marble Palace, visitors can marvel at a variety of silk carpets and textiles dating back to the Safavid and Qajar periods. These exquisite pieces, including termeh, patteh, and sormeh, serve as reminders of bygone eras, offering glimpses into the rich cultural heritage of Iran.
Among the treasures displayed in the Toranj Hall, one standout example is a Safavid rug featuring a mihrab design on a single-colored background. At the bottom of the rug, a large vase overflowing with vibrant flowers catches the eye, while a smaller vase adorns the top. Delicate borders intricately woven around the rug further enhance its captivating beauty, showcasing the skill and artistry of Persian carpet weavers.
Khatam Hall
The Khatam Hall within the Marble Palace stands out as a pinnacle of elegance and grandeur, sure to leave visitors awestruck. Spanning eight meters in length and six meters in width, this hall boasts an entire area adorned with intricate seal carvings. Each seal bears witness to the meticulous craftsmanship of its creators, elevating the Seal Hall to a magnificent display of seal works from the contemporary era. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the beauty and historical significance of these seals, gaining insight into their role in Iranian culture and society.
Calligraphy Hall
As its name suggests, the Calligraphy Hall within the Marble Palace is dedicated to celebrating the art of calligraphy and inscription. Here, visitors can admire handwritten manuscripts adorned with intricate calligraphic scripts, showcasing the mastery of Persian calligraphers.
Alongside these manuscripts, valuable calligraphy instruments such as inkwells and quills are displayed, offering a glimpse into the tools used by scribes throughout history. The Calligraphy Hall serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of calligraphy in Persian culture, inviting visitors to appreciate its beauty and significance.
Industry Hall
In the Industry Hall of the Marble Palace, you’ll find a showcase of ancient Iranian architectural wonders adorned with distinct decorations and patterns. These include remarkable seven-color tiles crafted by Mirza Agha Emami, standout tiles, wooden doors, intricately carved ceiling panels, and elaborate alcoves dating back to the Qajar period. Each piece tells a story of craftsmanship and artistic excellence from centuries past, offering a glimpse into Iran’s rich architectural heritage.
The Light Hall
Previously known as the Half-Mirror Hall, the Light Hall was meticulously constructed by renowned masters like Master Hossein Rezai, Mohammad Garayeshnejad, and Gholamali Masgar. The ceiling boasts decorative plasterwork adorned with intricate motifs and flower ribbons, skillfully executed by Ali Javaheri.
Beyond its captivating architecture, the Light Hall houses invaluable artifacts, including the House of God’s curtain and its accessories, as well as various lighting fixtures such as chandeliers and torches. Each element adds to the hall’s grandeur and serves as a testament to the opulence of the era.
The Negarin Hall
Ascending to the upper floor of the Marble Palace, you’ll encounter the Painting Hall, a sanctuary dedicated to the art of painting. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the world of paintings from the late Qajar period to contemporary artworks spanning the past century.
The hall showcases precious works by esteemed artists like Mirza Agha Emami, Haj Hussein Mosaveral-Molk, Hussein Khatai, Mahmoud Farshchian, and Hussein Taherzadeh Behzad. Each painting tells a unique story, reflecting the cultural and artistic evolution of Iran over time.
Displayed among the artworks in the Negarin Hall are exquisite examples of marquetry art, including prominent marquetry, gilded marquetry, multicolor marquetry, aligned marquetry, colored marquetry, and prominent burning. These intricate techniques highlight the mastery and creativity of Iranian artisans, leaving visitors in awe of their skill and craftsmanship.
Exploring the Marvels of Marble Palace: Unveiling Tehran’s Treasures
As you journey through the Marble Palace, also known as Marmar Palace, you embark on an enchanting odyssey through Iran’s rich history and cultural heritage. From the intricate seal carvings in the Seal Hall to the captivating artworks adorning the Painting Hall, each section of the palace unveils a unique aspect of Iran’s past.
As you immerse yourself in the Toreng Hall, marvel at the silk carpets and textiles from the Safavid and Qajar periods, a testament to Iran’s mastery of craftsmanship and artistic expression. Then, venture into the Light Hall, where the interplay of light and architecture creates an ambiance of awe and wonder.
While our article provides a glimpse into the wonders of Marble Palace, we understand that you may have questions or seek further insights. If you’re curious about specific exhibits or wish to delve deeper into Tehran’s attractions, we invite you to reach out to us. Our team of knowledgeable locals is here to assist you, whether it’s unraveling the mysteries of Marble Palace or guiding you through Tehran’s hidden gems.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized assistance or to arrange for a local leader to accompany you on your exploration of Tehran’s cultural wonders. Your journey through Marble Palace promises to be an unforgettable experience, filled with discovery, enlightenment, and the timeless beauty of Iran’s heritage.