Iran Culture, and Iran History
Travel tips for your trip to Iran Hotel Maps Famous Places in Iran helps you to make your trip to Iran in the holiday a Splendid One
The history of Iran is bound up in the rise and often chaotic fall of successive ruling groups. In the 6th century BC, the first Persian Empire was founded by Cyrus the Great, only for it to be overthrown by Alexander the Great some 200 years later, giving way to a long chain of invasions from Turks, Arabs and Mongols, among others. Islam arrived in the 7th century.
It wasn’t until the heights of the Safavid dynasty – who did much to cement the Shia faith in Iran – in the late 1500s that the Persian Empire could really be said to have regained greatness. The period was marked by opulent buildings, many of which can still be seen, and lengthy wars with the Ottomans.
By the 19th century, European influence was beginning to be felt strongly, exacerbated after the discovery of oil in the early 1900s. In the 1970s, the economic mismanagement and secular lifestyle of the ruling Shah was a catalyst for the 1979 popular revolution, spearheaded by Ayatollah Khomenei. Iran became an Islamic Republic.
Iran remains a powerful force both in the region and on the world stage. Washington has accused Tehran of attempting to develop nuclear weapons and to sabotage US efforts in Iraq. President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was returned to office for a second term in 2009 after a deeply controversial election marred by violence.
Religion:
Of the 98% Muslim population, 89% are Shi'a and 9% are Sunni. The remaining 2% consists of Christian, Jewish, Zoroastrian and Baha'i faiths.
Social conventions:
Visitors should avoid contentious political subjects in conversation. In general, “liberal” Western influences are discouraged by authorities. Handshaking is customary, but not with members of the opposite sex. It must be remembered that intimate relations between non-Muslim men and Muslim women is illegal, and may incur imprisonment. Iranians are incredibly hospitable and like to entertain. It is customary to be offered tea, and guests are expected to accept hospitality. Dress should generally be conservative and discreet – women should cover their heads in public and wear loose clothing. During Ramadan, smoking, eating and drinking in public are prohibited between sunrise and sunset.