Narenjestan Garden in Shiraz – History, Architecture & Visitor Guide

introduction

Narenjestan Garden, also known as Qavam or Narenjestan-e Qavam, is a fine example of garden houses of the Qajar era. It means “Garden of Bitter Orange Trees,” referring to the fragrance of bitter orange trees filling the house. It is a combination of Persian garden layout, architecture, and decoration, making it an architectural masterpiece.

History of Narenjestan Garden

The Narenjestan Garden is the home of the Qavam family, an influential family during the Qajar era in Shiraz. The house was constructed between 1879 and 1886. It was the public (Biruni) and administrative part of the house where they would receive their guests. It was connected through an underground tunnel to Zinat-al Molk House, the private (Andaruni) part of the house.

Today the house operates under the University of Shiraz as a museum.

The Garden

It covers 3500 square meters and follows the principals of the Persian Garden. It has a symmetrical design centered on a reflecting pool with rows of bitter orange trees. The garden is decorated with water features that cool the air, as well as flowering plants and cypress trees.

This arrangement of water, vegetation, and architecture creates a peaceful paradise on earth.

Architecture

Narenjestan Garden is an excellent example of Qajar architecture. It blends the Persian architecture with European elements, a popular trend of the 19th century.

It has a two-story central mansion overlooking a classic Persian garden with a central water channel and reflecting pool and a portico supported by stone columns to give you a nice view of the garden.

Colorful tilework known as seven-color tiles with floral designs, historical scenes, and birds alongside its magnificent mirror work is a sight to see. Delicate stucco work, wood carving, stained glass windows, finely crafted marquetry, and carved wooden doors are what make this place a unique Qajar-era house.

Visiting Narenjestan Garden

This house is open to the public as a museum where you can stroll through the house and enjoy the garden as well. Every spring, you can smell the aroma of bitter orange flowers filling the garden. You need 1 hour to visit the Narenjestan Garden.

The closest attractions to Narenjestan Garden are Zinat al-Molk House, Nasir al-Mulk Mosque, and the Vakil complex (Bazaar, Mosque, and Bathhouse).

FAQ

References

1. UNESCO – The Persian Garden
2. Encyclopaedia Iranica – Garden (Islamic Period), including discussion of Narenjestan as a notable Qajar garden.
3. University of Sheffield – Historical Gardens in Transition in 20th Century Iran (doctoral research on Shiraz’s historic gardens).