National Museum of Iran

National Museum of Iran is the first choice of travelers, who have an interest in archeology and history, and the main museum of Tehran. The exposition of the museum covers the history of Iran from the Paleolithic to the Qajar period. Thus visitors of the museum can follow up the whole history of Iran – from the Stone Age to the 20^th century. Due to the location in the center of the old part of Tehran, it is easy to include the museum to a daily Tehran tour.

Architecture of National Museum of Iran

National Museum of Iran consists of two buildings, built one after each other. The first building of the Museum of Ancient Iran with the impressive arch-shaped entrance is a creation of French architects André Godard and Maxime Siroux. The project draws inspiration from Sassanian architecture, uses red bricks, and takes an area of 11 000 sq.m. The construction started in 1935, and the museum started operation in 1937.
The building of the Museum of Islamic Era, on the other hand, has a modern design, using white travertine and dark colonnades, decorating the entrance. This exposition started working after the Islamic Revolution in 1979.

Exposition of National Museum of Iran

The Museum of Ancient Iran has a focus on archeological artifacts and presents a wide range of ancient relics. Accordingly, artifacts come from Shush, Rey, Ismailabad, Persepolis, Turang Tappeh, and other places, where pieces of evidence of ancient civilizations were found. The collection includes stone tools, which belong to the Stone Age and are more than 30 000 years old. Also here visitors can observe a copy of the Babylonian Code of Hammurabi – the world’s first legislation. Probably the most shocking and exciting item of the exhibition – Salt Man from Zanjan. It is a salt-cured mummy, found in a salt mine of Chehrabad. Moreover, there are statues, manuscripts, pottery, and other items on the display.
Museum of the Islamic Era presents pottery, textile, artworks, texts, and calligraphy from the post-classical period of Iran’s history. The newest exhibits belong to Qajar Era.

Location of National Museum of Iran

National Museum of Iran is located between Imam Khomeini and Hassan Abad metro stations of the dark blue line. It is the very center of Tehran, where you will find the most popular tourist attractions. In the walking distance from the museum there are City Park and Tehran Peace Museum, Moghadam Museum, Sardar-e Bagh-e Melli, National Jewelry Museum, and Golestan Palace. This neighborhood is interesting because of its architecture and is a part of the old city.

Where to Stay near National Museum of Iran

Due to its central location, the National Museum of Iran has many hotels around it. If you are planning a budget trip, try out 1-star Mehr Hotel or Samen Hotel – both are located within walking distance. You can find cozy rooms in 2-star Shahryar Hotel, Markazi Iran Hotel, or Golestan Hotel. For more luxury stay check out Ferdowsi Grand Hotel.

Where to Eat near National Museum of Iran

After visiting the National Museum of Iran have lunch in one of the cafes and restaurants, located not far from the museum. You can try legendary Malek Cafe at Kooshk e Mesri street, or take a walk to Grand Bazaar – the best place to experience the authentic atmosphere and of course, to try traditional food. 30th Tir street has an open-air food court with all kinds of cuisines – right in front of the museum. Also, you can find lots of cozy and modern coffee places in the neighborhood, like Rush Cafe.

When to Visit National Museum of Iran

National Museum of Iran is recommended to see for everyone, who is interested in the history of human civilization. Witness all the steps of Iran’s history – from stone tools to Persian poetry and calligraphy. The visit leaves a breathtaking feeling of being a part of a million years process of developing and improving. The opening hours of the museum are from 9.00 to 19.00 (till 18.00 in winter time). Take lunch on the grass of City Park in two steps away from the museum, before continuing your journey. Enjoy your trip to Tehran!