Tour Mollabashi House

Highlights

• Join Zhiva Parvaz, step by step, to explore the historical houses of Isfahan.
• Motamedi House belongs to various historical periods, showcasing the architecture of the Safavid, Zand, and Qajar eras. The influence of Safavid and Qajar architecture can be seen in the two courtyards of the house. Above the Nine-Door Room,ornate wooden crenellations remain as a legacy of Qajar architecture.
• The difference between the two cellars from the Safavid and Qajar periods is quite evident. The Safavid cellar features a vaulted ceiling, while in the Qajar period, the cellar ceiling was built with wood. The summer section of this house dates back to the Zand period, though it has been restored, with only a small part of the original Zand decorations remaining.
• Mollabashi, an astronomer of Naser al-Din Shah, was sent on a mission from Tafresh to Isfahan, where he purchased this house for his residence. At the time, Zell-e Sultan, the ruling governor, had caused unrest in the city. His wife, seeking justice, turned to Aqa Najafi Akhund, a respected religious figure of the time. This event led to Mollabashi’s migration to Isfahan to restore order in the city.
• Originally, Mollabashi House consisted only of a Five-Door Room and a winter residence, with the royal section and the Nine-Door Room added later.
• In this house, four main sections captivate visitors with their stunning architecture: the outer courtyard, royal chamber (Shah Neshin), summer residence, and inner courtyard. One of the most striking features upon entering is the metalwork on wooden surfaces, a remarkable decorative element.
• The house is a two-story structure, divided into two main areas: living spaces, which are warm and inviting, and service areas, which are enclosed and cooler, used for household tasks. During Mollabashi’s residence, he dedicated two rooms, three separate entrances, and one courtyard to his visitors.
• The courtyard architecture distinctly reflects Safavid and Qajar styles. The Qajar cellar is spacious and built with wood, while the Safavid cellar features a vaulted brick ceiling.
• The house has over 10 rooms, with the royal chamber (Shah Neshin) being the most magnificent. The inner chamber is breathtaking with its nine-door Orosi windows and intricate wooden crenellations. Sitting on Persian carpets, leaning against cushions, while sunlight filters through colorful stained-glass windows, creates a soul-refreshing experience. Strolling through the courtyard brings a sense of peace and tranquility.
• The mirror work, paintings, and stucco decorations on the walls and ceiling showcase the artistry of Persian architecture.
• In the 2000s (solar Hijri calendar), this historical house was purchased and restored by Dr. Mo'tamedi, though it has fortunately remained well-preserved over time.
• We wish you a wonderful experience with Zhiva Parvaz!