Worth a Journey

The World’s 100 Best Landmarks

Khaju Bridge

Isfahan, Iran

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST LANDMARKS WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 35 2026
Khaju Bridge

A Safavid bridge over the Zayandeh River in Isfahan, Iran, built around 1650 under Shah Abbas II that doubles as a dam. Visitors walk its arches, and in the evening people gather under them to sing and play music.

Highlights

  • Tilework and painted arches
  • Royal pavilion in the middle
  • Night lighting on the arches

Good to know

  • The river has been dry in recent years
  • Walk the bridge at dusk

Also in Iran

  1. Naqsh-e Jahan Square N° 11 Naqsh-e Jahan Square Isfahan Square
  2. Tomb of Hafez N° 46 Tomb of Hafez Shiraz Monument