Kashan's Top 11 Historical Houses + Photos
Kashan, an Iranian city steeped in history and cultural heritage, is home to a remarkable collection of historical houses.
These grand abodes, meticulously crafted centuries ago, offer a window into the architectural styles, social customs, and everyday life of past eras. These houses captivate visitors with their intricate details, captivating courtyards, and wind towers that defy the desert heat.
This guide explores among Kashan's historical houses, their architectural marvels, historical significance, and enduring legacy.
The List of Kashan's Top Historical Houses
- Borujerdi House
- Abbasi House
- Tabatabaei House
- Ameriha House
- Manouchehri House
- Noghli House
- Akhavan Historical House
- Mahinestan Raheb House
- Ehsan House
- Sharifian House
- Razzaqian House
1. Borujerdi House
Built in the 19th century, the Borujerdi House in Kashan, Iran, boasts a fascinating origin story. Legend claims it was a love token from merchant Mehdi Borujerdi to his soon-to-be wife, daughter of Jafar Tabatabaei, in a bid to outshine the Tabatabaei family's grand residence.
Completed in 1875, the house exemplifies traditional Iranian architecture, designed by Ostad Ali Maryam. It adheres to the concept of separate public and private spaces, featuring distinct "Biruni" (exterior) and "Andarooni" (interior) sections.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a captivating courtyard with a refreshing fountain pool. The grand reception hall boasts a domed roof and prominent windcatchers, a signature feature of the house. Skilled artisans adorned the house with intricate stuccowork, frescoes, and latticed windows for natural light.
The house further features contributions from renowned artists like Sania Al-Molk and Kamal Al-Molk, showcasing masterpieces of Iranian art. These artistic elements, along with the house's layout and architecture, give a taste of the Qajar period's (1789-1925) culture, history, and societal norms.
Spanning over 1,700 square meters, the Borujerdi House possesses three entrances and incorporates desert-adapted features like windcatchers for natural cooling. The main summer residence features a grand hall, additional rooms, and a central dome adorned with skylights and decorations.
Today, the Borujerdi House bears witness to to the Qajar era's architectural brilliance, attracting visitors with its captivating paintings, elaborate stuccowork, and iconic windcatchers. It highlights the opulent lifestyle and artistic traditions of the region.
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2. Abbasi House
The Abbasi House, constructed in the 19th century, is a renowned historical mansion in Kashan, Iran. Located in the Sultan Amir Ahmad neighborhood, it stands as a remarkable example of Islamic architecture and is widely admired for its unique design features.
Originally built as a private residence, the Abbasi House has been transformed into a traditional restaurant, offering visitors a unique dining experience while immersing them in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The house embodies meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the enduring legacy of Iranian architectural traditions in each section, from the grand entrance to the intimate dining spaces.
Dating back to the early 1820s, the construction of the Abbasi House spanned nearly two decades. The structure is divided into distinct "Andarooni" (interior) and "Biruni" (exterior) sections, reflecting the traditional separation of private and public spaces. Notably, the house is said to feature unique door handles that produce distinct sounds, potentially indicating the gender of the person entering or exiting a room.
The exterior section of the Abbasi House encompasses various interesting spaces, including a mirror room, an indoor hall, rooms with varying numbers of doors (three-door and five-door), and a dedicated porch for receiving business guests. The mirror room, in particular, is renowned for its captivating beauty.
The interior section, originally reserved for the family's private quarters, was strictly separated from the public areas and inaccessible to guests. The upstairs section features a "Shahneshin" (alcove) adorned with intricate decorations, similar to the one found on the lower floor.
Today, the Abbasi House serves as a cultural treasure, attracting visitors worldwide who come to marvel at its architectural grandeur and experience a taste of Iranian hospitality.
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3. Tabatabaei House
The mid-19th century Tabatabaei House in Kashan, Iran, is a renowned showcase to the artistic finesse of the Qajar era. Built by prominent carpet merchant Seyyed Jafar Tabatabaei Natanzi, the house, designed by celebrated architect Ustad Ali Maryam, embodies the essence of a traditional Persian residence.
Completed after a decade of construction, the house showcases the Qajar style's unique blend of functionality and aesthetics. Following tradition, it's divided into the "Andarooni" (private family quarters) and the "Biruni" (public space for guests and ceremonies).
Meticulous attention to detail defines the Tabatabaei House. Strategically positioned rooms surrounding courtyards maximize sunlight exposure, while stained-glass windows bathe interiors in vibrant hues. Intricate stuccowork and mirrorwork add grandeur, and three towering "Badgirs" (windcatchers) provide natural ventilation during hot summers.
The heart of the house is the reception hall, a masterpiece adorned with captivating stucco carvings, vibrant stained glass, and exquisite frescoes by 19th-century Kashani painters.
Spanning over 4,730 square meters, the house boasts a central courtyard, four additional ones, and 40 rooms, alongside cellars, windcatchers, and ancient water channels. The "Shabestan" (royal area) with its seven doors and unique decorations is a highlight, while the "Biruni" section features a captivating mirror porch inspired by Persian carpets. In contrast, the Andarooni's elegance is more subdued, featuring a central five-door room and two flanking courtyards.
The Tabatabaei House is an extraordinary symbol of the artistic heritage of the Qajar period, enchanting guests with its architectural wonders, elaborate embellishments, and profound historical importance.
4. Ameriha House
Standing tall as Kashan's largest historical house, the Ameriha House, also known as Saraye Ameriha, boasts a rich history and captivating transformation. Originally built in the 18th century for the Zand dynasty governor Agha Ameri, the house tragically suffered earthquake damage.
Meticulously reconstructed in the 19th century, the Ameriha House embodies the harmonious blend of historical preservation and modern functionality. Encompassing a vast area, it features 85 rooms, seven courtyards, and even two traditional bathhouses.
Visitors are captivated by the intricate details adorning the house: captivating tilework, mesmerizing stucco carvings, vibrant stained-glass windows, and exquisite frescoes. Strategically placed mirrors bathe the interiors in light, creating a sense of spaciousness.
Towering above other Kashan houses, the Ameriha House's wind towers (badgirs) represents the former governor's status. These ingenious structures provided natural ventilation and cooling, a crucial feature in the hot desert climate.
Today, the Ameriha House has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming the luxurious Saraye Ameriha Boutique Hotel. Meticulous restoration has preserved the historical charm while offering modern amenities. Guests can now experience the grandeur of Persian architecture and immerse themselves in Kashan's rich cultural heritage.
From the plush Persian carpets and elegant vintage furniture to the captivating mirrorwork, the rooms pay homage to the traditional style. Stepping through the grand main entrance, guests embark on a journey through time, transported into a world of captivating architecture.
5. Manouchehri House
The Manouchehri House, nestled in Shahid Sabet Alley, is a captivating example of Kashan's architectural heritage. While currently functioning as a private residence, the house reveals the traditional design and lifestyle of the region.
The central courtyard serves as the heart of the house, surrounded by rooms that showcase the beauty of Iranian design. Meticulously crafted details adorn the house, narrating the rich history of Kashan from the moment you step through the main entrance.
The Manouchehri House stands out for its ingenious features that reflect the region's adaptation to its climate. Towering windcatchers ("badgirs") grace the rooftop, facilitating natural ventilation and ensuring a cool and comfortable interior during the hot summer months.
Furthermore, the house is adorned with exquisite Persian carpets, adding a touch of elegance and reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.
While not a museum open to the public, the Manouchehri House remains a significant landmark, granting a view into the architectural traditions and the enduring legacy of Kashan's residential design.
6. Noghli House
Noghli Traditional Hotel is a great place to stay for those who want to experience the atmosphere of a traditional Iranian home. The hotel is close to many popular tourist attractions, such as Fin Garden, Ameriha Historical House, and Safavid Grand Bazaar.
Noghli historical house in Kashan is decorated in traditional style, with arch-like ceilings and walls with niches. There is a courtyard with wooden benches for relaxing in the summer, and a traditional heating system (Korsi) for keeping warm in the winter. The hotel also serves local tasty foods.
Guests can enjoy relaxing in the hotel's beautiful courtyard, or exploring the many historical attractions that are located nearby.
| Read more: Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse in Kashan
7. Akhavan Historical House
Kashan's Akhavan Historical House, while less renowned than some of its counterparts, offers a captivating experience for visitors seeking a glimpse into traditional Iranian architecture. Often referred to as a "hidden gem," the house showcases the enduring beauty and artistry of the region's historical residences.
Stepping through the impressive main entrance, visitors are greeted by a charming courtyard, surrounded by rooms decorated in a historical theme. The intricate details adorning the house are living legacies of the exceptional craftsmanship of the past. Walls serve as a canvas, adorned with captivating paintings, exquisite tilework, and breathtaking stucco patterns, each element narrating a story of the house's rich history.
The Akhavan House stands out for its iconic wind towers ("badgirs"). These architectural marvels, towering above the structure, serve as a symbol of the ingenuity employed in traditional Iranian architecture. The windcatchers played a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable interior temperature during the hot summer months by promoting natural ventilation.
The Akhavan Historical House is a must-visit, allowing visitors to appreciate the cultural heritage and artistic legacy of Kashan's historical houses.
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8. Mahinestan Raheb House
Kashan's Mahinestan Raheb House transcends the concept of mere accommodation; it serves as a portal to a bygone era. This historical marvel, constructed during the late Qajar and early Pahlavi periods (18th to early 20th centuries), invites guests to embark on a captivating journey through time.
Upon entering the house, visitors are greeted by a charming courtyard, a tranquil oasis adorned with traditional Iranian decorative elements. The surrounding rooms, each adorned with colorful rugs and captivating wind towers, whisper tales of the past. Every detail, from the intricate architectural elements to the vibrant textiles, contributes to the house's storybook ambiance.
Beyond its captivating aesthetics, the Raheb House offers a unique guesthouse experience. Unlike a typical hotel stay, residing at the Raheb House allows guests to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage and architectural charm of Kashan. It's an opportunity to experience Iranian hospitality firsthand, surrounded by the timeless beauty of a historical residence.
The house showcases several notable architectural features, including the "Shah نشین" (Shahneshin, a grand reception hall), the entrance vestibule, a summer porch ("Biruni"), a winter porch ("Andarooni"), and a prominent wind tower ("Badgir"). These elements not only showcase the architectural prowess of the era but also served practical purposes. The wind tower, for instance, facilitated natural ventilation, ensuring a comfortable temperature within the house during the hot summer months.
If you are a traveler seeking an authentic cultural immersion, the Raheb House promises an unforgettable stay in the heart of Kashan.
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9. Ehsan House
The Ehsan House is one of the most fascinating historical houses in Kashan, dating back to the Qajar era (1789-1925). It is a two-story building with a central courtyard, a rectangular pool, and surrounding greenery. The courtyard features benches for relaxation.
The house offers 35 guest rooms equipped with modern amenities like refrigerators, toilets, and bathrooms. It operates as an eco-friendly guesthouse, providing amenities such as free parking, Wi-Fi, a kitchen, multilingual staff, and tour guides.
Ehsan historical guest house in Kashan also incorporates cultural experiences for guests. It houses a cinema, a library, a pottery studio, a museum, and a gallery. The house is located near the Grand Mosque and the Kashan Bazaar, making it a convenient location for exploring the city.
10. Sharifian House
The historical Sharifian House is renowned for its exquisite architecture and traditional features, offering visitors a window into the domestic life and social customs of the Qajar period.
The house follows the customary division found in many historical Iranian residences, featuring an "Andarooni" (inner section) and a "Biruni" (outer section). The Andarooni served as a private sanctuary for the family, particularly women and female members, while the Biruni functioned as the public area for receiving guests.
The central courtyard is a captivating feature, showcasing a beautiful pond adorned with traditional Persian designs. The intricate details adorning the interior spaces further reflect the artistic flourishes of the Qajar era.
The Sharifian House stands as a significant cultural landmark, not only for its architectural beauty but also for its embodiment of traditional Iranian values related to privacy and the separation of public and private spheres.
11. Razzaqian House
Razzaqian House in Kashan offers a captivating journey back in time to the Qajar era. It is known for its traditional architecture and unique design elements.
The house follows a central layout with two open spaces, one internal and one external, flanking a central chamber. This central chamber is particularly noteworthy for its grandeur, resembling a space befitting royalty.
Beyond its central layout, the Razzaqian House incorporates windcatchers ("badgirs") into its design. These traditional architectural elements play a crucial role in natural ventilation, capturing cool breezes and ensuring air circulation within the house, particularly during the hot summer months.
The Razzaqian House serves as a valuable historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural styles and practical considerations employed in residential design during the Qajar period.
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Final Takeaway
The historical houses in Kashan serve as valuable portals to the past, allowing visitors to appreciate the artistry, craftsmanship, and social customs of bygone eras. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of Iranian culture, Kashan's historical houses promise an enchanting journey through time.
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