Chehel Sotoun Palace - Image 1
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Chehel Sotoun Palace

4.6
·3k reviews·Esfahan, Iran

A 17th-century Safavid pleasure palace famed for its 'Forty Columns' illusion and vibrant historical frescoes, set within a UNESCO-listed Persian Gard...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fresh gardens, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Chehel Sotoun Palace - Image 1

Chehel Sotoun Palace

Best Time

Spring mornings

Fresh gardens, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 17th-century Safavid pleasure palace famed for its 'Forty Columns' illusion and vibrant historical frescoes, set within a UNESCO-listed Persian Garden.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"Stepping into the Chehel Sotoun Garden is like traveling back in time to the heart of the Safavid Empire."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Reflection

Visit during daylight for the best reflection of the 'forty columns' in the pool.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Don't just see the palace; wander through the beautiful Persian Garden.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Forty Columns Illusion

The Forty Columns Illusion

Entrance Pavilion

Twenty slender pillars reflected in the long pool create the illusion of forty, a stunning architectural marvel.

Instagram
Vivid Historical Frescoes

Vivid Historical Frescoes

Interior Halls

Walls adorned with breathtaking murals depicting battles, feasts, and royal receptions of the Safavid era.

Instagram
Tranquil Persian Garden

Tranquil Persian Garden

Surrounding Grounds

A UNESCO-listed Persian Garden offering a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and a serene atmosphere.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Reflection

The palace's name, 'Forty Columns,' comes from the twenty pillars reflected in the long pool. Plan to visit when the water is calm for the best optical illusion and photo opportunities. Instagram

Timing is Key for Art

While beautiful year-round, the interior frescoes and miniature paintings are best appreciated in good natural light. Consider visiting during daylight hours to fully admire the intricate details of the historical scenes depicted. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Fresh gardens, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Best light for frescoes
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening (seasonal)
Why
Magical ambiance, reflections
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Isfahan Iran 🇮🇷 is my favorite city I’ve visited so far in the country. There is much life and unique architecture like I’ve never seen before. The Naqsh-e Jahan Square is truly mesmerizing with how massive it is and the amount of things encompassed inside of one area. From music gatherings underneath a bridge when the river dries up, to endless parks, shops and landmarks, this city really surpri...
@worldnomac
33.5K likes • 387.8K views

📸 Capture the Reflection

Visit during daylight for the best reflection of the 'forty columns' in the pool. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Don't just see the palace; wander through the beautiful Persian Garden. Reddit

#اصفهان نصف العالم🌎ملخص عذي المدينة الرائعة بين أيديكم 🇮🇷#travel #trip #رحلة #visitiran #isfahan الرحلة والتنظيم وحجز القصر عن طريق @السياحة و العلاج في ايران
@esraa.life
33.4K likes • 517.1K views
A historical masterpiece Chehel sotoun palace in Isfahan Iran 🇮🇷 یک شاهکار تاریخی کاخ چهل ستون اصفهان🇮🇷 - The name, meaning “Forty Columns” in Persian, was inspired by the twenty slender wooden columns supporting the entrance pavilion, which, when reflected in the waters of the fountain, is said to appear to be forty. #اصفهان #چهل_ستون #ایرانگردی #isfahan #iran #palace #historical #masterpiece
mahdi_adventure
7.7K likes • 102.9K views

🖼️ Admire Interior Art

Take your time to appreciate the detailed frescoes and miniature paintings inside. Instagram

💧 Water Feature Magic

The long pool is key to the palace's name and charm; it's especially beautiful when calm. Instagram

Chehel Sotoun palace of Isfahan , , , , , video by @satrapi.iran . . . #islamicart #islamicarts #islamic_art #islamic_arts # #chehelsotoun # #persianpainting #chehelsotounpalace # # #aliqapupalace #chehelsotoon #iranianarchitecture #iranian_painting #persian_architecture #wall_art #هنراسلامی #هنر_اسلامی #کاخ_چهلستون #چهلستون #چهل_ستون # #معماری_سنتی_ایران #ایوان #معماری_سنتی # #کاخ #معماری_ایرانی ...
islamic.art.gallery
4.5K likes • 38K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Reflection

Visit during daylight for the best reflection of the 'forty columns' in the pool. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Gardens

Don't just see the palace; wander through the beautiful Persian Garden. Reddit

🖼️ Admire Interior Art

Take your time to appreciate the detailed frescoes and miniature paintings inside. Instagram

💧 Water Feature Magic

The long pool is key to the palace's name and charm; it's especially beautiful when calm. Instagram

☕ Relax in the Garden

There's a tea shop within the garden for a relaxing break. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chehel Sotoun Palace is widely praised as a magical and historically significant site in Isfahan, captivating visitors with its unique 'forty columns' illusion and stunning interior frescoes. While the palace itself is a highlight, the surrounding Persian Garden adds to its tranquil charm, making it a must-visit for cultural immersion. Some visitors note that interior photography may have restrictions.

"Chehel Sotoun is a truly magical place. This text is written with a tone that captures that feeling and is perfect for a Local Guide review on Google Maps. It's designed to be engaging and informative for a broad audience.
Chehel Sotoun: A Jewel of Isfahan's Past
Stepping into the Chehel Sotoun Garden is like traveling back in time to the heart of the Safavid Empire. This stunning palace, surrounded by a lush and tranquil garden, is a masterpiece of Persian art and architecture.
The palace's most famous feature is its name, which means "Forty Columns." While you'll see twenty tall, wooden columns supporting the main pavilion, the real magic happens when their reflection shimmers in the long pool in front. This creates a beautiful optical illusion, making them appear as a total of forty columns.
Inside, the palace walls are adorned with breathtaking murals and frescoes. These detailed paintings tell stories of historical events, great battles, and grand royal feasts, captivating you with their vibrant colors and intricate details.
If you are looking for a deep cultural experience and a moment of peace in Isfahan, Chehel Sotoun is a must-visit. It's more than just a building; it's a historical and artistic treasure that beautifully showcases the splendor of Persian culture."

Sana Farzaneh

"Chehel Sotoun Palace, Isfahan – The Palace of Forty Columns.

Chehel Sotoun, meaning “Forty Columns”, is a majestic pavilion in Isfahan, Iran, located within the Chehel Sotoun Garden, one of the Persian Gardens listed by UNESCO. The palace was built during the Safavid era, primarily under Shah Abbas II in the mid-17th century, and served as a ceremonial and reception palace for ambassadors and dignitaries.

The name "Forty Columns" comes from the twenty slender wooden pillars of the palace’s entrance hall, which reflect in the long pool in front, creating the illusion of forty. The wooden columns support a beautifully decorated wooden ceiling, leading to a central hall with stunning frescoes, mirror work, and painted panels that depict historical scenes, including royal banquets and battles.

Chehel Sotoun reflects a blend of Persian garden design and Islamic architecture, combining open spaces, symmetry, and rich interior ornamentation. The use of water, trees, and perspective enhances its tranquil and grand atmosphere.

Today, Chehel Sotoun is both a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Safavid cultural refinement, and a symbol of Persian Architecture in Isfahan. Its preserved artworks and peaceful setting offer insight into the imperial lifestyle and aesthetic values of one of Iran’s most influential dynasties."

Lefteris Stamatelatos

"The area of ​​this complex is about 60,000-70,000 square meters and it is very large and spectacular. This palace includes 20 pillar hall, mirror hall and north and south rooms, the dome and roof of the palace have colorful and beautiful patterns and designs. On the walls of the palace hall, 6 beautiful oil paintings can be seen, which seem to remind of the wars and feasts of the Safavid era.
The entrance to the main hall of the palace has a beautiful mirror, which is known as the mirror room. The shadow of these 40 columns fell into the pond and that is why this pine is called 40 columns."

Farhad S

What People Like

Forty columns illusion
Beautiful frescoes
Tranquil Persian Garden

What People Dislike

Interior photography restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chehel Sotoun Palace is centrally located in Isfahan, making it easily accessible. Many visitors find it within walking distance of Naqsh-e Jahan Square. Taxis are readily available, and local buses also serve the area. Reddit

Yes, it's conveniently located near many other key sites in downtown Isfahan, including Naqsh-e Jahan Square, making it easy to combine visits. Reddit

For exploring Isfahan and reaching Chehel Sotoun, a combination of walking for nearby sites and using taxis or ride-sharing apps for longer distances is recommended. TikTok

While specific parking details can vary, there are usually parking areas available near major attractions in Isfahan. It's advisable to check local signage or ask your driver. Reddit

Yes, Isfahan has a public bus system that can take you close to the palace. It's a budget-friendly option for travelers. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the most current information closer to your visit, but generally, it's open during daylight hours. Reddit

Admission fees are typically modest. For the most up-to-date pricing, it's recommended to check official tourism websites or inquire upon arrival. Reddit

Advance booking is usually not required for Chehel Sotoun Palace. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance. Reddit

Generally, a single admission fee covers entry to both the palace and the surrounding gardens. Reddit

Information on discounts for students or seniors is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in the gardens and exterior of the palace. Inside, restrictions may apply to protect the delicate frescoes, so be mindful of signage. Instagram

The reflecting pool with the palace in the background is iconic. The interior frescoes also offer stunning photographic opportunities, where permitted. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and cultural sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone. TikTok

Yes, there is a photographer on-site who can be hired to capture professional photos for visitors. Reddit

Morning light is excellent for the gardens and exterior, while afternoon light can be good for interior shots if allowed. The reflections in the pool are also captivating. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The name translates to 'Forty Columns' in Persian. It refers to the twenty slender wooden pillars of the entrance pavilion, which appear to be forty when reflected in the long pool. Instagram

Inside, you'll find magnificent frescoes, mirror work, and painted panels depicting historical events, royal banquets, and battles of the Safavid era. InstagramReddit

The palace has stairs and uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. The gardens are more accessible. Reddit

While not always formally advertised, local guides may be available for hire at the site. It's also possible to explore independently. Reddit

Built by Shah Abbas II in the mid-17th century during the Safavid era, it served as a royal pavilion for entertainment and receptions. Instagram+1

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

There is a tea shop located within the garden area of Chehel Sotoun, offering a place to relax. Reddit

The palace is located near street food and clothing shops, suggesting a vibrant local area with dining options. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to be mindful of local customs and avoid picnicking in formal garden settings unless designated areas are available. Reddit

Isfahan offers a variety of traditional Persian cuisine, which often includes delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes like herb stews and lentil soups. TikTok

Must-try dishes include Beryani (a lamb patty), Khoresh Mast (a sweet and savory meat dish), and various types of kebabs and stews. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chehel Sotoun Palace offers a visually engaging experience for families. The large reflecting pool and the concept of 'forty columns' can spark children's imagination. The vibrant frescoes inside, depicting stories and battles, can be a fun way to introduce history. Instagram+1

While the palace interiors might require close supervision, the spacious gardens provide ample room for kids to explore and run around. There's also a tea shop within the garden for a family break. Consider making it a part of a larger exploration of Isfahan's historical sites to keep younger visitors engaged. Reddit

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Chehel Sotoun is a dream destination. The iconic reflection of the columns in the long pool is a must-capture shot, especially during the golden hours. The architectural details of the pavilion and the surrounding Persian Garden offer numerous framing opportunities. Instagram+1

Inside the palace (where photography is permitted), the detailed frescoes and mirror work provide incredible subjects for close-up shots and capturing the grandeur of Safavid art. Experiment with different angles and lighting to bring out the richness of the colors and textures. Instagram+1

🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts

This palace is a pilgrimage site for anyone interested in Persian history and art. The 17th-century architecture and its role as a royal reception hall offer a direct connection to the Safavid era. The historical frescoes are invaluable for understanding the period's events and culture. InstagramReddit+1

Art enthusiasts will be mesmerized by the intricate miniature paintings, stucco work, and mirror decorations. The blend of Persian garden design with Islamic architectural elements is also a significant point of study. It's a place where history and art converge beautifully. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Meaning Behind 'Forty Columns'

The name Chehel Sotoun translates to 'Forty Columns' in Persian. This evocative name is inspired by the palace's striking architectural feature: twenty slender wooden columns supporting the main entrance pavilion. When viewed from across the long, tranquil pool in front of the palace, the reflection of these pillars doubles, creating the illusion of forty columns. This clever use of reflection is a hallmark of Persian garden design and architectural ingenuity, aiming to enhance the sense of grandeur and symmetry. Instagram+1

While the reflection is the primary source of the name, some sources suggest that other pillars around the palace might also contribute to the 'forty' count, making the name less of an exaggeration and more of a poetic description of its columned presence. The visual effect is particularly captivating during calm weather when the water's surface is still, mirroring the pavilion perfectly. Reddit

This architectural play on perception is a key element that draws visitors and photographers alike, seeking to capture the unique beauty of this Safavid-era masterpiece. It’s a testament to the aesthetic sensibilities of the time, blending nature, architecture, and optical illusion. Instagram

A Glimpse into Safavid Receptions

Chehel Sotoun Palace was not just a residence; it was a grand venue for royal entertainment and diplomatic receptions during the Safavid dynasty, particularly under Shah Abbas II. Dignitaries, ambassadors, and important guests were welcomed here, either on the expansive terrace or within the stately reception halls. The palace was designed to impress and showcase the wealth and sophistication of the Persian Empire. Instagram+1

The interior walls are adorned with magnificent frescoes and miniature paintings that vividly depict historical events, epic battles (like the Battle of Chaldiran, as mentioned in one Reddit post Reddit), royal feasts, and courtly life. These artworks serve as a visual narrative, offering a deep dive into the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Safavid era. The intricate details, vibrant colors, and dynamic compositions of these paintings are a major draw for visitors interested in art and history. Instagram+1

Beyond the visual arts, the palace's design incorporates elements of Persian garden design, emphasizing harmony between architecture and nature. The surrounding gardens, part of a UNESCO World Heritage ensemble, along with the reflecting pool, contribute to a serene and majestic atmosphere, befitting its role as a place for important state affairs and lavish celebrations. Reddit

The Artistry of the Interiors

The interior of Chehel Sotoun Palace is a treasure trove of Persian art, renowned for its stunning frescoes, intricate mirror work, and detailed painted panels. These artworks are not merely decorative; they are historical records and artistic expressions that bring the palace's past to life. The vibrant colors and meticulous craftsmanship are a testament to the skill of Safavid artists. Instagram+1

Visitors are particularly captivated by the large-scale murals that adorn the walls of the main halls. These paintings often depict scenes of royal banquets, military victories, and diplomatic encounters, providing a rich visual narrative of the Safavid dynasty's power and prestige. The detail in the figures, clothing, and settings is remarkable, drawing viewers into the historical moments depicted. Reddit

In addition to the frescoes, the mirror work found in certain areas adds a dazzling element, reflecting light and enhancing the sense of opulence. The combination of these artistic elements creates an immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the aesthetic values and artistic achievements of 17th-century Persia. Instagram

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