Worth a Journey

The World’s 100 Best Landmarks

Naqsh-e Jahan Square

Isfahan, Iran

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST LANDMARKS WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 11 2026

No. 1 in the Middle East

Naqsh-e Jahan Square

A rectangular square in central Isfahan, Iran, built under Shah Abbas I between 1598 and 1629 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Four monuments line the sides, and visitors walk the lawns, ride carriages and see the square lit at night.

Highlights

  • Imam Mosque turquoise dome
  • Ali Qapu Palace
  • Qaysariyeh Bazaar entrance

Good to know

  • Carriage rides around the square
  • Parking is limited nearby
  • Evening light for photographs

Also in Iran

  1. Khaju Bridge N° 35 Khaju Bridge Isfahan Bridge
  2. Tomb of Hafez N° 46 Tomb of Hafez Shiraz Monument