
Menar Jonban (Shaking Minarets) Isfahan
Witness the astonishing 'shaking minarets' of Menar Jonban, a medieval marvel where one tower's sway causes the other to vibrate in unison.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Demonstration times are key

Menar Jonban (Shaking Minarets) Isfahan
Best Time
Demonstration times are key

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the astonishing 'shaking minarets' of Menar Jonban, a medieval marvel where one tower's sway causes the other to vibrate in unison.
"The most notable feature of the building are the minarets, which both shake and sway when one of them is shook."

🎯 Check Demonstration Times
The shaking minarets only move during scheduled demonstrations, often around noon. Don't miss it!
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Located west of the city, factor in travel time. Taxis are common, but confirm prices.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Shaking Minarets
Main structure
Witness the astonishing phenomenon where one minaret's sway causes the other to vibrate in unison.

Tomb of Amu Abdullah
Base of the minarets
Explore the historical mausoleum of the Sufi ascetic, Amu Abdullah, built in the Ilkhanate era.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Shake
Location & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Demonstration Times
The shaking minarets only move during scheduled demonstrations, often around noon. Don't miss it!
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Located west of the city, factor in travel time. Taxis are common, but confirm prices.
⏳ Be Patient for the Show
The caretaker initiates the shake. Sometimes there's a wait, but the spectacle is worth it.
📸 Capture the Sway
Bring your phone or camera to record the unique vibration. Video is best!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Demonstration Times
The shaking minarets only move during scheduled demonstrations, often around noon. Don't miss it!
🚗 Plan Your Transport
Located west of the city, factor in travel time. Taxis are common, but confirm prices.
⏳ Be Patient for the Show
The caretaker initiates the shake. Sometimes there's a wait, but the spectacle is worth it.
📸 Capture the Sway
Bring your phone or camera to record the unique vibration. Video is best!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Menar Jonban is celebrated as a unique architectural marvel, with the synchronized shaking of its minarets being the undeniable highlight. Visitors are captivated by this centuries-old engineering feat. While the demonstration is a must-see, it's crucial to check specific times, and some note a price disparity for foreign visitors.
"Menar Jonban: The Mystery of the Shaking Minarets
Located a bit outside the city center, Menar Jonban is a truly special architectural wonder. Its name, which means "shaking minarets," perfectly describes the unique and mysterious feature that makes this site so famous.
The monument consists of a tomb and two minarets. The real magic happens at specific times when a caretaker climbs up and shakes one of the minarets. As he does, not only does that one sway, but the other minaret and even the entire structure begins to vibrate in sync!
This incredible display of medieval engineering and physics is a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. The structure was built over the tomb of a Sufi ascetic, Amu Abdullah, and has captivated visitors for centuries.
If you want to witness this phenomenon for yourself, be sure to check the specific demonstration times before you go. It’s an unforgettable experience and a great story to tell when you get home!"
Sana Farzaneh
"They charge more than 7 times the price for foreigners and no longer have demonstrations of how the minarets move..."
haRf Riz
"A must to see!!! The Monar Jonban (meaning the shaking minarets), is a monument located in Isfahan, Iran. It was intended as a shrine, built over the grave of the Sufi ascetic Amu Abdullah Suqla. Construction on the building started in the era of the Ilkhanate, but it was finished during the Safavid Empire. The most notable feature of the building are the minarets, which both shake and sway when one of them is shook. If you want to witness this magical shake, make sure to be there at 12 pm. Highly recommended!"
Kia Kalantari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Menar Jonban is located about 10 kilometers west of Isfahan's city center. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi. You can also inquire about local bus routes, though this might take longer. Confirm your route and fare with your driver beforehand.
While public transport options exist, they might not be as direct or frequent as taxis. For a more straightforward journey, especially if you're short on time, a taxi is generally recommended.
Many visitors opt for taxis for their directness and convenience. If you're on a budget, research local bus lines that serve the western part of the city.
Menar Jonban is located a considerable distance from Naqsh-e Jahan Square, typically a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. It's advisable to allocate sufficient travel time.
While ride-sharing apps are becoming more prevalent in Iran, their availability and reliability for reaching Menar Jonban might vary. It's best to have a backup plan, like a traditional taxi service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee for Menar Jonban. Some reviews mention a significant price difference for foreigners compared to locals. It's advisable to check the current rates upon arrival.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site at Menar Jonban. There's usually no need to book in advance, but it's always a good idea to arrive a little before the demonstration times.
Menar Jonban's hours are generally aligned with the demonstration times. The site is usually open during daylight hours, with the main event happening around noon.
Yes, the shaking demonstration is the main attraction and usually occurs at specific times, often around 12 PM. It's crucial to confirm these times before your visit as they can change.
Friday is the weekend in Iran, and while many sites are open, hours might be different. It's best to verify the operating schedule for Fridays to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The primary attraction is the unique architectural phenomenon of the 'shaking minarets.' When one minaret is manually shaken, the other vibrates in sync, a feat of medieval engineering.
The demonstration itself is relatively short, focusing on the shaking of the minarets. However, the entire experience, including waiting for the caretaker and observing, can take about 30 minutes to an hour.
While there might not be formal guided tours, a caretaker is usually present to initiate the shaking demonstration and can offer basic information about the site.
As a historical and religious site, modest dress is recommended. This typically means covering shoulders and knees.
Visitors are generally not permitted to climb the minarets themselves. The demonstration involves a caretaker who climbs one of them to initiate the shaking.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at Menar Jonban. It's a great opportunity to capture the unique swaying motion of the minarets.
Try capturing the minarets from different perspectives, including wide shots showing both, and closer shots focusing on the sway. The base of the structure also offers interesting architectural details.
Absolutely! Videos are highly recommended to truly capture the dynamic and unusual movement of the minarets.
While general photography is permitted, be mindful of any specific signs or requests from staff regarding sensitive areas within the tomb structure.
Mid-morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting. However, the demonstration itself is the main event, so timing your visit for that is key, regardless of the light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip for families: Ensure you time your visit for the demonstration, as that's the main draw. The site is located a bit outside the city, so plan your transport to make the journey smooth. Pack some snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. The historical aspect of the tomb can also be a good learning opportunity about different cultures and beliefs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and the sway. Wide shots can capture both minarets, while closer shots can highlight the subtle vibrations. Consider the time of day for lighting, though the demonstration itself is the primary focus. The architectural details of the mausoleum also provide interesting photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of the Shaking Minarets
The exact mechanism behind the synchronized shaking remains a subject of intrigue. Theories suggest it involves the precise weight distribution, the flexibility of the materials used, and the specific way the structure was designed to resonate. Some accounts mention that shaking the left minaret causes the right to sway, but shaking the right does not affect the left as much, adding another layer to the mystery. This intricate design ensures that the entire structure vibrates, creating a visible and palpable effect.
While the engineering is the star, the site also holds historical and spiritual significance as the resting place of Amu Abdullah. The experience of witnessing the minarets sway is often described as surreal and unforgettable, making Menar Jonban a must-visit for anyone interested in unique historical sites and architectural wonders.
Visiting Menar Jonban: What Travelers Say
Some visitors have noted that the site is located a bit outside the city center, requiring specific transportation arrangements. While the experience is generally positive, a few reviews mention a significant price difference for foreigners, which is a point to be aware of. Despite this, the unique nature of the shaking minarets makes it a memorable stop on any Isfahan itinerary.
Photography enthusiasts find Menar Jonban a fantastic spot to capture unique motion. Videos are particularly recommended to showcase the synchronized swaying. The historical context of the tomb of Amu Abdullah adds another layer of interest for those keen on history and Sufi traditions.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit