Elgoli Park: Tabriz's Premier Park

Elgoli Park, also known as Shah Goli (Shah's Lake), is an iconic attraction in Tabriz. Located 7 km southeast of the city center, this grand park features a beautiful artificial lake with an island-like pavilion at its center, now a restaurant.

Elgoli was officially registered as a national heritage site in 2008, and its origins are believed to date back to the late 18th century, with some sources tracing it even earlier.

Located just 7 kilometers southeast of Tabriz’s city center, Elgoli Park is an essential destination for both locals and tourists alike. Originally constructed in the late 18th century, with some sources even suggesting its origins as far back as the 14th century, the park boasts a stunning pavilion that seems to float on a massive 55,000 m² artificial lake. This iconic structure, once a royal retreat, is now a bustling restaurant, where you can dine with views that rival the best in the world.

After the Islamic Revolution in 1979, the park's name changed from Shah Goli, meaning "Royal Lake," to Elgoli, "the People’s Lake," symbolizing its cultural significance to the people of Tabriz. Want to learn more about the park’s history, location, and the beauty that awaits you? Join us as we dive deeper into everything this must-visit site has to offer!

Why Visit Elgoli Park in Tabriz?

1. Elgoli Park is ideal for visitors of all ages, from children to the elderly, offering a welcoming environment for everyone.
2. The park provides various recreational and comfort facilities for tourists, ensuring a pleasant visit.
3. During the hot summer months, Elgoli's cool and refreshing air makes it a perfect escape from the heat.
4. It is one of the most beloved attractions in Tabriz.
5. The park offers boating, a Luna Park, restaurants, green spaces, walking trails, and a skating rink, providing plenty of options for entertainment.
6. It is listed as a national heritage site in Iran.

Elgoli Park History

The history of El-Gölü Park, formerly known as Shah Goli, dates back to the Aq Qoyunlu era, when it was originally built as a royal pool. The name "Shah Goli" means "The King's Pool."

Initially, this large pool served as the primary water source for irrigating the gardens of eastern Tabriz. During the Safavid period, the pool was expanded and fortified with walls after removing debris and sand, creating a reservoir 12 meters deep.

In the Qajar era, El-Gölü evolved into a recreational spot with pathways and decorative poplar and weeping willow trees planted around it. By the Pahlavi period, it was handed over to the municipality of Tabriz, marking its transformation into a public park.

The iconic central pavilion, originally a modest clay structure, was rebuilt into the elegant two-story mansion we see today, as ordered by the eighth son of Abbas Mirza. Though intended to be a summer palace, construction was halted when he passed away.

Today, the mansion serves as a restaurant and reception hall, adding to the park's charm. With dimensions of 200 by 200 meters, the pool varies in depth from 3 to 9 meters. Elgoli was officially registered as a national heritage site in Iran on February 16, 2009.

Elgoli Park Architecture

The architecture of Eil Goli Park beautifully reflects traditional Persian garden design, blending human-made structures with nature to captivate visitors. At the heart of the park lies an iconic octagonal pavilion, often compared to a floating palace due to its position in the center of a vast, artificial lake. This mansion, with its small dome, resembles a diamond and stands as a symbol of elegance and harmony.

A stone-paved path extends from the southern edge of the lake, leading visitors directly to the pavilion, connecting the main axes around the lake to the octagonal structure. The park follows the classic Persian garden layout: a central water feature surrounded by lush, dense trees, offering a serene, green landscape.

In addition to its stunning architecture, Elgoli Park offers modern attractions, including a theme park, golf center, skating rink, and even a billiard academy. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating, walking, biking, and relaxing with traditional foods sold in the park.

An intriguing sundial clock displays the official time of Iran, and the Andisheh Hall provides a venue for events and conferences. For added convenience, Elgoli Park offers free Wi-Fi to its guests, making it both a historical and modern marvel worth exploring.

Different Parts of El-Gölü Park in Tabriz

Elgoli Park in Tabriz is a multi-faceted recreational and tourist destination that offers a variety of features catering to comfort, leisure, and sightseeing. The park is mainly divided into two essential parts: the Elgoli Lake and the central pavilion.

Elgoli Lake

The lake at Elgoli has historical roots dating back to the Aq Qoyunlu period, where it initially served as a reservoir for irrigation. During the Safavid era, after clearing debris, a stone wall was constructed around the lake.

Originally, the lake was about 12 meters deep. The Qajar period saw the development of streets around the lake, and the addition of poplar trees, weeping willows, and colorful flowers enhanced its beauty.

In the Pahlavi era, it was transformed into a public recreational area. Today, the lake measures approximately 200 by 200 meters and ranges from 3 to 9 meters in depth.

It is fed by a stream from the Lighvan River and features charming artificial waterfalls and forested areas around it. The lake’s beauty is accentuated by the reflection of lush greenery in spring and the snow-covered scene in winter.

Elgoli Pavilion

A tree-lined path leads from the southern edge of the lake to the pavilion, which has undergone several transformations over the years. Originally a single-story clay building from the Aq Qoyunlu era, the pavilion was expanded and modified during the Safavid and Qajar periods.

However, due to severe deterioration, the old pavilion was demolished in 1967, and a new two-story octagonal building was constructed. Designed by the renowned architect Haj Ali Akbar Naderalvojud, this modern pavilion now serves as a reception hall and restaurant.

Andisheh Hall

Andisheh Hall is another notable feature within Elgoli Park. With a capacity of around 330 people, it is equipped with advanced audio-visual systems and is an ideal venue for conferences and cultural events. The hall is well-organized and offers high-quality heating and cooling systems, ensuring comfort for all types of gatherings.

Things to Do at Elgoli Park in Tabriz

Elgoli Park is not just a visual delight; it offers a wide range of activities that make it an ideal destination for fun and relaxation. Whether you are looking to enjoy the natural beauty or engage in recreational activities, Elgoli Park has something for everyone. Below are some things you can do at the Shahgoli Park in Tabriz:

1. Boating on Elgoli Lake: During the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant and the lake’s water isn’t frozen, visitors can enjoy boating. Both pedal and motor boats are available for rent. Boating on the cool waters of Elgoli Lake is a refreshing experience and provides a unique perspective of the park’s scenic beauty.
2. Mini Golf at Elgoli: For a unique recreational experience, try the mini-golf course located near the Elgoli Park Hotel. This standard mini-golf course is one of the few in Iran and hosts various regional tournaments. While there is a fee for using the mini-golf facilities, it offers a fun and challenging activity for visitors of all ages. Make sure to allocate enough time to fully enjoy the game.
3. Cycling: Elgoli Park features designated cycling paths that allow cyclists to explore different sections of the park. If you enjoy cycling, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to ride through the park’s picturesque landscapes. The well-maintained trails ensure a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.
4. Carriage Rides: Visitors can also experience a charming carriage ride around the lake. For a fee, you can enjoy a leisurely ride pulled by horses, accompanied by the soothing sounds of horse hooves and the gentle jingle of carriage bells. This nostalgic activity adds a touch of elegance to your visit.
5. Elgoli Luna Park: Located on the west side of the lake, Luna Park offers a variety of amusement rides for an exciting afternoon. Attractions at the Luna Park include:
   1. Salto: A thrilling spinning ride
   2. Chain Swing: A classic swing ride
   3. Roller Coaster: For an adrenaline rush
   4. Electric Cars: Fun for children and adults alike
   5. Ferris Wheel: Offering panoramic views of the park

Amenities at Elgoli Park in Tabriz

Elgoli Park in Tabriz, as one of the city’s key recreational and tourist centers, offers a variety of amenities to ensure visitors' comfort and convenience. Here’s a look at what the park has to offer:

1. Parking Facilities: For those visiting Elgoli Park by car, parking is conveniently available. The park has designated parking areas to accommodate visitors, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.
2. Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are provided throughout the park. These facilities are regularly cleaned and meet hygiene standards to ensure a comfortable experience for all visitors.
3. Drinking Fountains: Multiple drinking fountains are scattered across the park, providing easy access to fresh water. This feature helps keep visitors hydrated while they explore the park’s many attractions.
4. Prayer Room: Elgoli Park includes a prayer room for visitors who wish to perform their religious duties. This space is designed to offer a quiet and respectful environment for prayer.
5. Free Wi-Fi: Elgoli Park is notable for being the first park in Tabriz to offer free, widespread wireless internet access. This amenity allows visitors to stay connected, share their experiences, and access information while enjoying the park.
6. Saiman Complex: Nearby Elgoli Park is the Saiman Complex, an important recreational and sports center in Tabriz. This facility complements the park’s offerings with its range of sports activities and amenities. The Saiman Complex features standard and luxurious facilities for sports like skating, hockey, table tennis, and rock climbing. Additionally, it includes a restaurant, café, and sports equipment shop, providing a comprehensive recreational experience.
7. Sundial: One of the park’s unique attractions is its large sundial, the largest of its kind in the northwest of the country. This impressive feature not only serves as a functional timepiece but also adds to the park’s charm and provides a fascinating point of interest for visitors.

Best Time to Visit Elgoli Park

Elgoli Park is enchanting throughout the year. In spring, it delights with blooming flowers and fresh green leaves. Summer offers pleasant breezes and shady trees. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, while winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland. However, spring and summer are generally the best times to visit, appealing to a wide range of preferences. The park is open 24/7 and does not require an entry fee, making it accessible anytime.

Location of Elgoli Park in Tabriz

Elgoli Park is situated in the central part of Tabriz, placing it close to many of the city's main attractions. After enjoying Elgoli Park, visitors can explore the Mausoleum of Poets and the historic Grand Bazaar, both of which are nearby.

How to Get There

Metro

The Elgoli Metro Station is conveniently located a short distance from the southern sections of the park. Simply take the metro to this station and walk a bit to reach the park.

Bus

For bus travel, Board Bus Line 101, which has a stop near Elgoli Park. After getting off at the nearest stop, it’s just a short walk to the park.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout the city and can take you directly to Elgoli Park. You can also use an online taxi service for convenience.

Driving

If you're driving, you can use Bakri Highway, Golestan Street, or Ferdowsi Square to access the park. For detailed directions, Google Maps can help you navigate to Elgoli Park.

Tourist Attractions Near Elgoli Park

1. Veli-Asr Park: Located 4.9 kilometers from Elgoli Park, Veli-Asr Park is a serene spot ideal for leisurely walks and relaxation.
2. Saib Tabrizi Forest Park: Just 2.3 kilometers away, this forest park offers a natural escape with walking trails and green spaces.
3. Sacred Defense Museum: Situated 5.3 kilometers from Elgoli Park, this museum provides insights into Iran’s military history with various exhibits and displays.
4. Baghlar Bagh Park: Located 6.2 kilometers away, Baghlar Bagh Park is a spacious area with lush gardens and recreational facilities.

Hotels Near Elgoli Park

1. Tabriz Palace Hotel: Only 1.2 kilometers from Elgoli Park, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the park.
2. Pars Hotel: Situated 2.4 kilometers away, Pars Hotel provides quality lodging close to major attractions.
3. Shahryar International Hotel: Located 4.7 kilometers from Elgoli Park, this hotel features modern amenities and a central location.
4. Kaya Laleh Park Hotel:2 kilometers away, this hotel is known for its luxurious services and beautiful surroundings.

Restaurants Near Elgoli Park

1. Khaane Sabz Restaurant: Just 150 meters from Elgoli Park, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes in a cozy setting.
2. Penne Restaurant: Located 850 meters away, Penne offers Italian cuisine with a pleasant dining experience.
3. Zeytoon Restaurant: 8 kilometers from the park, Zeytoon provides a range of traditional Iranian dishes.
4. Bakhter Restaurant: Situated 3.6 kilometers away, Bakhter offers a diverse menu with a focus on Persian cuisine.
5. Yooz Café Restaurant: 2 kilometers from Elgoli Park, Yooz offers a mix of café and dining experiences with a relaxing atmosphere.

Bottom Line

El-Gölü Park in Tabriz, also known as Shah Goli, is a must-visit destination just 7 kilometers southeast of the city center. With its origins possibly tracing back to the 14th century, this historical park is renowned for its expansive artificial lake and picturesque pavilion, now a popular restaurant.

Registered as a national heritage site since 2008, Eil Goli Park offers something for everyone, from boating and mini-golf to cycling trails and carriage rides. With amenities including free Wi-Fi, ample parking, and clean restrooms, it's a welcoming spot year-round.

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