Narenjestan Qavam Garden in Shiraz was constructed between 1257-1267 SH during the reign of Neser al-Din Shah Qajar, under the direction of Mohammad Ali Khan. Originally serving as a venue for political, military, and diplomatic affairs, this historical site has since been bestowed to Shiraz University.
- Architecture
- Art
Architecture
The Narenjestan Qavam Garden in Shiraz covers a vast area of 3500 m2, featuring a historic mansion on its northern side and a distinct building on the southern side. Alongside these prominent structures, the garden encompasses several remarkable sites, including the Gachineh bath, Qavam Hussainiya, Qavam’s primary school, Qavam bureau, and Zinat Ol-Molouk house, which was also utilized as a private bath by Qavam. Notably, the garden once housed a bustling bazaar and a well-appointed stable. Regrettably, both the bazaar and stable succumbed to demolition to make way for the construction of a nearby street.
Art
In the Qajar era, the Narenjestan Qavam Garden in Shiraz showcased an impressive array of artistic techniques, including mirroring, Moaaraq, lithography, woodcarving, plaster modeling, Moqarnas, and painting, all skillfully executed by Shirazi artists and architects. Inside the building, these magnificent art forms adorned the walls and ceilings, creating a visually stunning ambiance.
The beauty of the garden extended to its outdoor space as well. A splendid display of gardening artistry unfolded, featuring meticulously designed layouts of citrus and palm trees that adorned the yard, providing a captivating sight for visitors.
Two elegant aisles of stairs flanked the house on both sides, offering access to both the upper floor and the underground floor. These staircases added to the grandeur of the building’s architecture, providing an inviting path for exploration and discovery.
Visiting the Narenjestan Qavam Garden allows one to immerse oneself in a world of artistic brilliance, architectural excellence, and harmonious garden design, making it a truly enriching experience for all who venture within its captivating grounds.
Adjacent to the porch, you’ll find charming small rooms adorned with mesmerizing mirroring artistry. These rooms showcase not only the exquisite mirrored designs but also house some authentic furniture pieces from the Qajar era, adding to the historical charm of the place.
The wooden ceiling of these rooms bears the skilled brushstrokes of artists from that era, as they delicately painted intricate patterns, creating a captivating sight for visitors.
As you step into the main rooms and the porch, you’ll be captivated by the opulence of the décor. Countless small pieces of mirrors gracefully cover the walls and ceilings, forming a mesmerizing display of intricate art. Gazing upon this intricate artwork demands time and attention to truly appreciate the intricate details adorning these spaces.
The Narenjestan Qavam Garden stands as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the Qajar era, leaving visitors awe-inspired by the skill, dedication, and creativity that breathe life into every corner of this historical gem.
The grandeur of the Narenjestan Qavam Garden continues into the magnificent Mirror Hall, also known as the King’s Seat. Accessible through stunning wooden windows adorned with mesmerizing Orosi designs, the Mirror Hall offers a breathtaking sight.
Inside the Mirror Hall, a majestic marble fireplace commands attention, adding to the regal ambiance of the space. Above the fireplace, a remarkable portrait of Qavam Ol-Molouk, meticulously engraved, captures the essence of the historical figure, paying tribute to her presence in this illustrious setting.
As visitors step into the Mirror Hall, they are greeted with a sense of awe and reverence, surrounded by unparalleled artistry, architectural splendor, and a profound connection to the past. The Narenjestan Qavam Garden stands as a living testament to the artistic brilliance and cultural heritage of the Qajar era, inviting all who enter to be enchanted by its timeless beauty.
The central porch, graced by two elegant stone columns, held a place of honor for hosting special ceremonies. Adorned with mirrors on both walls and ceiling, this splendid space mesmerized visitors with its enchanting reflections. The mirrors artfully captured the beauty of the surrounding garden and the charming fountain that adorned the front of the house.
Stepping onto the central porch was akin to entering a realm of magic, as the play of light and reflections amplified the allure of the garden and the soothing presence of the fountain. The captivating ambiance of this space made it an ideal setting for moments of celebration and reverence.
With its harmonious blend of architectural beauty, artistic mastery, and natural splendor, the Narenjestan Qavam Garden’s central porch offered a profound and unforgettable experience for all who had the privilege of partaking in its timeless charm.
In modern times, the underground floor of the Narenjestan Qavam Garden has been transformed into a captivating museum, showcasing a treasure trove of antique artifacts predominantly from the esteemed Qajar age. The museum offers a rare glimpse into the rich historical heritage of this remarkable era.
Visitors to the museum have the privilege of admiring a diverse collection of Qajar-age belongings, carefully curated and displayed to evoke a sense of reverence for the past. From intricately crafted artworks to prized possessions once owned by influential figures like Qavam Ol-Molouk, each exhibit tells a captivating story of a bygone era.
The underground museum stands as a bridge between the past and the present, preserving the cultural legacy of the Qajar age for generations to come. Stepping into this time capsule, visitors embark on a journey of discovery, immersing themselves in the opulence and significance of a remarkable period in history.