Country | Iran, Islamic Rep. of |
Area | 351 km2 (136 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+03:30 (IRST) |
Coordinates | 36.29807, 59.60567 |
Highest elevation | 995 m (3,264 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Mashhad, the second-most populous city in Iran, is located in the northeastern part of the country, about 900 kilometers from Tehran. As of the 2016 census, it has a population of approximately 3.4 million people, including the areas of Mashhad Taman and Torqabeh. Mashhad serves as the capital of Razavi Khorasan Province, as well as Mashhad County and its central district.
Historically, Mashhad began as a small village known as Sanabad in the 9th century, part of the ancient Silk Road network connecting it to Merv in the east. Over time, it outgrew its neighboring villages, including Tus, the birthplace of the famous Persian poet Ferdowsi. The city gained prominence and its current name, meaning “place of martyrdom,” due to the Imam Reza shrine, where the eighth Shia Imam, Ali al-Rida, is buried. This shrine also houses the tomb of the Abbasid caliph Harun al-Rashid and attracts around 25 million pilgrims annually, making Mashhad often described as “the holiest city in Iran.”
During the Mongol period, Mashhad experienced relative prosperity and continued to grow. Between 1736 and 1796, it became the capital of Afsharid Iran under the rule of the Afsharid dynasty founded by Nader Shah, whose tomb is a notable site in the city. In modern times, Mashhad has expanded significantly and has been home to many prominent Iranian literary figures and artists, such as the poet Mehdi Akhavan-Sales and the traditional Iranian singer and composer Mohammad-Reza Shajarian. On October 30, 2009, then-President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad declared Mashhad to be “Iran’s spiritual capital.”
Geographically, Mashhad lies in a fertile valley between the Hezar Masjed and Binalood mountain ranges, giving it a diverse climate with hot summers and cold winters. The city’s economy is heavily influenced by its religious significance, with a large number of hotels, restaurants, and bazaars catering to pilgrims. Additionally, Mashhad is an important center for agriculture, particularly saffron, and industrial activities, including textiles and food processing.
Culturally, Mashhad boasts a rich heritage with numerous historical sites, museums, and cultural institutions. The Imam Reza shrine complex is a central attraction, drawing millions of visitors yearly. The city is also known for its educational institutions, including Ferdowsi University, one of Iran’s leading universities.
Mashhad’s infrastructure includes a well-developed transportation network, with the Mashhad International Airport offering flights to various domestic and international destinations. The city is also connected by major highways and a railway system, facilitating easy access to other parts of Iran.
In summary, Mashhad is a city of great historical, cultural, and religious significance in Iran. Its growth from a small village on the Silk Road to a bustling metropolis reflects its enduring importance in the region. With its rich heritage, diverse economy, and strategic location, Mashhad continues to be a vital center for both pilgrims and residents alike.
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