Historical Houses of Kashan offer a captivating glimpse into Iran’s splendid architectural past, each telling a story of artistry and elegance. Explore the top six historical houses in Kashan, where intricate stucco work, breathtaking mirror mosaics, and classic Persian garden layouts transport you to an era of luxurious living and cultural flourish. Perfect for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike, these houses are not just buildings but monuments to the rich heritage of Persian civilization.
Best 6 Historical Houses of Kashan
- Tabatabaei House
- Borujerdi House
- Mahinestan Raheb House
- Ameri House
- Manochehri house
- Abbasi House
Discover Tabatabaei House: A Jewel of Persian Architecture
Tabatabaei House, built in the 1840s, is one of Kashan’s most famous historical houses. It was designed by a renowned architect of the Qajar era for the affluent Tabatabaei family, who were notable for their involvement in the carpet trade. This architectural masterpiece is celebrated for its intricate reliefs, fine frescoes, and exceptional stained-glass windows, which capture the essence of Persian residential architecture.
Visiting Tabatabaei House offers a deep dive into the luxurious lifestyle of the 19th-century Persian elite, enhanced by the detailed craftsmanship and timeless beauty preserved within its walls.
- Address: Alavi Street, Kashan, Isfahan Province, Iran
- Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; extended hours during peak tourist seasons may apply.
- Entrance Fee: The admission price is approximately 150,000 Iranian Rials (about 3.50 USD), making it both an affordable and enriching cultural experience.
Explore Borujerdi House: A Masterpiece of Kashan's Historical Architecture
This historic house is also located in the old context of Kashan, in the Sultan Amir Ahmad neighborhood, which dates back to the Qajar era. Architecturally, the Borujerdi House is very similar to the Tabatabai House. The reason for this resemblance was the request of the Tabatabaei family from the Borujerdi family to build a house like their home as a condition for marriage and intercourse between the two families. Borujerdi House, constructed in the late 19th century, is another gem among Kashan’s historical houses. Commissioned by a wealthy merchant to impress his prospective father-in-law, a carpet merchant who owned the nearby Tabatabaei House, the Borujerdi House took 18 years to complete. This house is renowned for its elaborate architectural details, including its beautiful windcatchers (badgirs), iconic features of desert architecture in Iran, aimed at cooling the house naturally. The interior decorations boast stunning frescoes painted by prominent artists of the time, using natural dyes.
- Address: Sultan Amir Ahmad Alley – Alavi Street – Kashan – Isfahan
- Entrance Fee: The entrance fee is approximately 150,000 Iranian Rials (about 3.50 USD)
- Opening Hours: Spring and Summer: 9:00 – 18:00 / Autumn and Winter: 9:00 – 16:30
Step into the Past at Mahinestan Raheb House: Kashan's Hidden Gem
The construction of this historical house of Kashan back to the late Qajar and early Pahlavi times. The Raheb house has such parts as the Shah, the entrance vestibule, the summer Avon, the winter Avon, and a windbreak. Mahinestan Raheb House is a relatively recent addition to Kashan’s historic homes, dating back to the late 19th century. This house stands out for its blend of traditional Persian residential architecture with modern elements, making it unique among the more classical structures in Kashan. The house was restored and converted into a museum and cultural center, which now hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and artistic performances, enriching visitors’ experiences with a vibrant slice of Iranian culture.
- Address: 13th Garhang Alley – Darb-e Baq neighborhood – Fazel Naraqi Street – Kashan – Isfahan
- Opening Hours: 9:00 – 19:00
- Entrance Fee: The ticket price is around 200,000 Iranian Rials (approximately 4.50 USD)
Discover Ameri House: A Grand Heritage of Kashan
Ameri House, also known as Khan-e Ameriha, dates back to the early 18th century and is one of the largest traditional houses in Kashan. Originally built by the affluent Ameri family, this complex was expanded over several generations, showcasing the evolution of residential architecture over centuries in Iran. The house features several courtyards, a reflection of the complex social structures of the time, and is renowned for its magnificent badgirs (wind towers), beautifully crafted doors, and extensive stained glass work.
- Entrance Fee: Entrance typically costs around 200,000 Iranian Rials (about 4.50 USD)
- Address: Alavi Street, Kashan, Isfahan Province, Iran
- Opening Hours: 9:00 – 19:00
Explore Manochehri House: A Blend of Tradition and Elegance in Kashan
Manochehri House is a finely restored traditional house in the heart of Kashan that dates back to the Safavid era. This historic residence has been beautifully preserved and converted into a boutique hotel and cultural center. Manuchehri House stands out for its commitment to combining traditional Persian architecture with sustainable practices, utilizing locally sourced materials and traditional techniques in its restoration.
- Address: Mohtasham Street, Kashan, Isfahan Province, Iran
- Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
Visit Abbasi House: A Historical Marvel of Kashan
Abbasi House, dating back to the late 18th century, is one of the most prominent historical houses in Kashan. Originally built during the late Zand period, it was owned by a wealthy merchant family. This house is celebrated for its architectural brilliance and the sheer size of its compound, which includes multiple courtyards, elaborate wall paintings, intricate mirror work, and stunning stucco designs. Over the years, it has been meticulously restored to showcase the art and culture of the era it represents.
- Address: Soltan Amir Ahmad Alley, Kashan, Isfahan Province, Iran
- Visiting Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Entrance Fee: The typical entrance fee is about 200,000 Iranian Rials (approximately 4.50 USD)
How to access historical homes in Kashan?
To access the historical homes in Kashan, follow these steps to ensure a smooth and enriching experience:
- Plan Your Visit: Determine which historical homes you want to visit such as Tabatabaei House, Borujerdi House, Ameri House, and others. Prioritize based on your interests, as each house has unique architectural and historical features.
- Purchase Tickets: You can buy tickets at the entrance of each house. Consider purchasing a combined ticket if available, as it often provides access to multiple homes at a discounted rate.
- Guided Tours: For a more informative experience, consider booking a guided tour either through a travel agency or at the entrance of the homes. Guides can provide detailed historical houses of the Kashan tour’s context and insights that enhance your understanding of the sites.
- Transportation: Kashan’s historical houses are centrally located and relatively close to each other. You can easily walk between them if you enjoy strolling through historic neighborhoods. Alternatively, renting a car in Kashan is readily available and inexpensive for quicker transportation.
- Timing: Visit during the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during the warmer months. These times also tend to have fewer tourists, providing a more relaxed viewing experience.
- Local Regulations: Respect local customs and regulations, such as dress codes and photography restrictions, to ensure a respectful visit.
- Accommodations: Consider staying in a traditional house-turned-hotel to extend the historical experience throughout your stay in Kashan.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to explore the architectural wonders and historical richness of Kashan’s celebrated homes.
Last word
There are innumerable traditional houses in Kashan due to its rich architecture and culture. Kashan is home to a 7000-year civilization of Sialk Hills and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in south Iran. Most of these traditional houses are used as guest houses these days which allows visitors to experience the pleasant ambiance of an ancient Iranian lifestyle.
FAQ
The top 6 historical houses in Kashan renowned for their architecture and historical significance include the Tabatabaei House, Borujerdi House, Ameri House, Abbasi House, Manuchehri House, and the Mahinestan Raheb House. Each offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and architectural traditions of the region.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance of each historical house. Many of them offer the option of a combined ticket, which covers entry to multiple houses at a reduced rate. It’s advisable to check if any online booking options are available ahead of your visit to streamline your experience.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and architecture of the houses. Tours can be arranged through local travel agencies or at the entrance of each house. Some hotels and guesthouses also offer tour bookings, often with knowledgeable local guides who speak multiple languages.
