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Places / Asia

Iran

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At a glance

Region
Southern Asia
Capital
Tehran
Population
92.4 million (2025)
Area
1,648,195 km²
Languages
Persian (Farsi)
Currency
Iranian rial (IRR)
Drives on the
right
Calling code
+98

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Before you go

Overview

The Islamic Republic of Iran also known as Persia is located in western Asia. At 2018 it recorded a population of 81.8 million and covers an area of 1.648 million km2.

It is the second-largest country in the Middle East.

Its capital city is Tehran and it is the country’s main cultural, economic and political centre.

Damavand Stratovolcano, Iran

History

Iran was colonised by both the British and Russian in 1941 during the Second World War. It became a republic on 1st April 1979.

It fought a war with Iraq between 1980 to 1988.

Food & culture

The culture here is influenced by the Islam religion, which extends to regions like Italy, Macedonia and Russia.

The staple and most popular food is rice over stew and cheese.

Its major exports are oil and natural gas.

Wildlife

The wildlife includes flora and fauna with a variety of animal species like wild pigs, wolves, jackals, bears, gazelles, foxes, scorpions, snakes and panthers. Cheetahs which are rare to find are also found here.

Festivals & events

The major celebrated holidays include Iranian New Year which begins on 21st March, Sizdah is dar which is the Nature Day, Jashn-e-Mehregan which is the fire day, Jashn-e-Tirgan which is the water day and many others.

Things to see

The National Museum of Iran contains artefacts that existed during Paleolithic ages.

The Qajar monarchs’ jewels are maintained in the National Jewelry Museum.

At the centre of Tehran city is the Golestan Palace complex with decorated rooms and a marble throne used during the Qajar Empire.

The capital city, Tehran, Iran

Interesting facts

The country is famous for beautiful poetry, flourishing gardens and splendid mats. The word paradise is derived from a Persian word which means an enclosed garden.

The official language of in the country is Persian.

Education comprises of compulsory six years of primary education beginning age six and secondary education from age twelve to eighteen.

City guides

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran

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Plan your trip to Iran

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Neighbours

Bucket List goals in Iran