Markar Clock Tower
Discover the Markar Clock Tower, a historical landmark in Yazd, believed to be the geographical center of Iran and still functioning.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Pleasant weather for exploring
Markar Clock Tower
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the Markar Clock Tower, a historical landmark in Yazd, believed to be the geographical center of Iran and still functioning.
"A historical clock tower that's still ticking and marks the center of Iran!"
📍 Center of Iran
This tower is considered the geographical center of Iran. A unique spot to visit!
🕰️ Still Ticking
The clock mechanism, made in London, still functions and needs weekly winding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Clock Tower Itself
Markar Clock Plaza
An ancient, still-functioning clock tower with a pyramid-like obelisk design. A testament to early 20th-century engineering.
Center of Iran Marker
Markar Clock Plaza
Stand at the spot believed to be the geographical center of Iran. A unique point of interest for travelers.
Zoroastrian Heritage
Markar Clock Plaza
Appreciate the legacy of Peshotanjee Marker, the Zoroastrian benefactor who funded this historical landmark.
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Planning Your Visit
Center of Iran
A Glimpse into History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📍 Center of Iran
This tower is considered the geographical center of Iran. A unique spot to visit!
🕰️ Still Ticking
The clock mechanism, made in London, still functions and needs weekly winding.
📜 Poetic Inscriptions
Look for poems by local poet Naser inscribed on the tower's four sides.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The tower and plaza offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Tips
from all over the internet
📍 Center of Iran
This tower is considered the geographical center of Iran. A unique spot to visit!
🕰️ Still Ticking
The clock mechanism, made in London, still functions and needs weekly winding.
📜 Poetic Inscriptions
Look for poems by local poet Naser inscribed on the tower's four sides.
📸 Great Photo Spot
The tower and plaza offer excellent photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Markar Clock Tower for its historical significance, its unique status as the geographical center of Iran, and the enduring functionality of its clock mechanism. The story of its benefactor, Peshotanjee Marker, adds a personal touch to the experience. While it's a straightforward landmark, its historical context and central location make it a worthwhile stop.
"The ancient clock tower that has been built by zoroastrian, which it still functions; It is nice to have a look on your way to zoroastrian fire temple."
Soheil Sharafat
"The history of the construction of this square and clock was very interesting to me, and more interestingly, this point is considered the center of Iran."
Mehdi babaee
"Proud when your granduncle uncle has a square named after him. Legendary Peshotanjee Marker."
Rohin Marker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Markar Clock Tower is located in the Markar Clock Plaza, often mentioned as being on the road to Kerman, just north of the Markarabad school entrance. It's accessible by local taxis or ride-sharing services within Yazd. Many visitors find it convenient to visit as part of a broader exploration of Yazd's historical sites.
Yes, the tower is a prominent landmark in its plaza and is generally easy to locate within Yazd. It's often cited as being in the center of the city.
The plaza itself is a pleasant area to walk around. You can also combine a visit with nearby attractions like the Zoroastrian Fire Temple, as it's often on the same route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Markar Clock Tower and its plaza is generally free of charge. It's an open public space.
As an outdoor landmark and public plaza, the Markar Clock Tower is accessible at any time. However, the best experience is during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee to see the Markar Clock Tower or explore the surrounding plaza.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Markar Clock Tower is significant as it's believed to be the geographical center of Iran. It was built in 1942 with funds from a Zoroastrian benefactor, Peshotanjee Marker, and its clock mechanism was made in London.
While the clock mechanism is housed within the tower, it's not typically accessible to the public for viewing. You can, however, see the tower and hear it chime.
Take time to admire the architecture, read the inscriptions on the sides, and imagine its historical context. The plaza around it is also a nice spot to relax.
It's a recognized historical landmark and a point of interest for those exploring Yazd's unique sites, particularly its connection to the center of Iran and Zoroastrian history.
There are poems by a local poet, Naser, on four sides of the tower. The upper lines are about Ferdowsi, and the lower lines are about the benefactor, Markar. The last part of the inscription indicates the year of construction in Abjad numerals.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for photography. The golden hour can create beautiful shots of the tower.
You can capture wide shots of the tower in its plaza, close-ups of the architectural details, and even shots that emphasize its status as the center of Iran.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography in the public plaza. However, always be respectful of the surroundings and any local customs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the harshest sun. It's a good opportunity to talk about history, geography, and the importance of benefactors like Peshotanjee Marker. The tower's unique obelisk shape might also capture children's imaginations.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the inscriptions, which provide insights into the benefactor and the era. Understanding the role of the Zoroastrian community in Yazd's history will enrich your appreciation of this landmark. The tower's designation as the geographical center of Iran also adds a unique historical and geographical dimension to your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legacy of the Markar Clock Tower
The tower itself is an architectural piece, standing about 4 meters high with a square base and a pyramid-like top, resembling an obelisk. Its movement system was meticulously crafted in London by J. Smith & Sons Co., requiring weekly winding of its spring. Inscriptions of poems by the local poet Naser adorn the four sides of the tower. The upper lines of these poems pay homage to Ferdowsi, while the lower lines honor the benefactor, Markar. Notably, the final part of the inscription uses the Abjad numeral system to denote the year of the tower's completion as 1320 Solar Hijri (1941-1942 AD), and also subtly references Markar's Zoroastrian faith through the phrase 'Good Deeds'.
Beyond its architectural and historical value, the Markar Clock Tower holds a unique geographical significance. It is widely believed and considered to be the geographical center of Iran. This makes it a point of interest for both locals and tourists, offering a tangible connection to the heart of the country. The tower's enduring functionality and its place in Yazd's urban landscape make it a cherished landmark, symbolizing a blend of history, philanthropy, and national identity.
Understanding the 'Center of Iran' Claim
Standing at this 'center point' offers a unique perspective for travelers. It's a place where you can literally be in the middle of the nation. This concept is often highlighted by visitors and locals alike, adding a layer of intrigue to the visit. The plaza surrounding the tower is designed to accommodate visitors who wish to mark this special location.
While the primary function of the tower is its historical and horological significance, its status as the center of Iran elevates its importance. It transforms a simple clock tower into a symbolic landmark, representing the unity and vastness of the country. Many visitors enjoy taking photos that emphasize this 'center of Iran' aspect, making it a memorable part of their trip.
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