Persian Traditional Hotels
An opportunity to experience history
With thousands of years of history, Iran boasts a rich legacy of architecture and the construction of diverse buildings in various styles. Throughout history, Iranians mastered the art of using locally available materials to create homes with the best quality and highest efficiency—whether in the heart of Iran’s deserts or in the mountainous regions of the Zagros and Alborz ranges.
This expertise turned Iranian home architecture into a hallmark of Iranian culture and art. These homes, adorned by the skilled hands of Persian artisans, became earthly paradises for their inhabitants.
In recent years, thanks to the creativity and innovation of a new generation, many of Iran’s historic and traditional houses have been repurposed into stunning and charming accommodations. These traditional boutique hotels provide a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in an unparalleled experience during their visit to Iran—an experience rooted in thousands of years of Iranian artistry, architecture, and renowned hospitality.
Some of these traditional hotels, dating back 300 to 400 years, were once private homes designed according to Iran’s climate and traditional architectural principles. Over the centuries, they have witnessed the lives of numerous owners and residents. Today, after undergoing thoughtful renovations, they offer complete modern amenities and a tranquil retreat for lovers of history, art, and architecture.
These hotels are historical houses that were used as family residences during past centuries, specifically in the Safavid, Qajar, and Pahlavi periods. In traditional Iranian culture, a family typically included the father, mother, children, daughters-in-law, and grandchildren. As a result, these houses were usually divided into multiple sections known in Iranian culture as “Andaruni” (the private quarters) and “Biruni” (the public quarters). The Andaruni was designated for the family members, while the Biruni was reserved for guests or individuals visiting the household.
The architecture and decorative style of each house vary depending on the period in which it was built, whether during the Pahlavi, Qajar, Safavid, or Zand eras. Additionally, the wealth and social status of the homeowner significantly influenced the form and layout of the house.
A view of one of the rooms in a traditional Iranian boutique hotel, adorned with various
beautiful motifs of Iranian art