Chehel Sotoun Palace
A 17th-century Safavid pleasure palace famed for its 'Forty Columns' illusion and vibrant historical frescoes, set within a UNESCO-listed Persian Gard...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fresh gardens, pleasant weather
Chehel Sotoun Palace
Best Time
Fresh gardens, pleasant weather
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.
"Stepping into the Chehel Sotoun Garden is like traveling back in time to the heart of the Safavid Empire."
📸 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Forty Columns Illusion
Entrance Pavilion
Twenty slender pillars reflected in the long pool create the illusion of forty, a stunning architectural marvel.
Vivid Historical Frescoes
Interior Halls
Walls adorned with breathtaking murals depicting battles, feasts, and royal receptions of the Safavid era.
Tranquil Persian Garden
Surrounding Grounds
A UNESCO-listed Persian Garden offering a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and a serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Reflection
Timing is Key for Art
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 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.
🖼️ Admire Interior Art
Take your time to appreciate the detailed frescoes and miniature paintings inside.
💧 Water Feature Magic
The long pool is key to the palace's name and charm; it's especially beautiful when calm.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 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.
🖼️ Admire Interior Art
Take your time to appreciate the detailed frescoes and miniature paintings inside.
💧 Water Feature Magic
The long pool is key to the palace's name and charm; it's especially beautiful when calm.
☕ Relax in the Garden
There's a tea shop within the garden for a relaxing break.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
Yes, it's conveniently located near many other key sites in downtown Isfahan, including Naqsh-e Jahan Square, making it easy to combine visits.
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.
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.
Yes, Isfahan has a public bus system that can take you close to the palace. It's a budget-friendly option for travelers.
🎫 🎫 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.
Admission fees are typically modest. For the most up-to-date pricing, it's recommended to check official tourism websites or inquire upon arrival.
Advance booking is usually not required for Chehel Sotoun Palace. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance.
Generally, a single admission fee covers entry to both the palace and the surrounding gardens.
Information on discounts for students or seniors is not widely publicized, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
📸 📸 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.
The reflecting pool with the palace in the background is iconic. The interior frescoes also offer stunning photographic opportunities, where permitted.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical and cultural sites. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
Yes, there is a photographer on-site who can be hired to capture professional photos for visitors.
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.
🎫 🏛️ 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.
Inside, you'll find magnificent frescoes, mirror work, and painted panels depicting historical events, royal banquets, and battles of the Safavid era.
The palace has stairs and uneven surfaces, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. The gardens are more accessible.
While not always formally advertised, local guides may be available for hire at the site. It's also possible to explore independently.
Built by Shah Abbas II in the mid-17th century during the Safavid era, it served as a royal pavilion for entertainment and receptions.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There is a tea shop located within the garden area of Chehel Sotoun, offering a place to relax.
The palace is located near street food and clothing shops, suggesting a vibrant local area with dining options.
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.
Isfahan offers a variety of traditional Persian cuisine, which often includes delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes like herb stews and lentil soups.
Must-try dishes include Beryani (a lamb patty), Khoresh Mast (a sweet and savory meat dish), and various types of kebabs and stews.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
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.
🏛️ History Buffs & Art Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Meaning Behind 'Forty Columns'
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.
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.
A Glimpse into Safavid Receptions
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 ), 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.
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.
The Artistry of the Interiors
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.
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.


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