Shiraz Karim Khan Citadel


Shiraz Karim Khan Citadel

TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Arg-e Karim Khan (Karim Khan Citadel) is located in Shiraz's northeast, in southern province of Fars. It was built as part of a complex during the Zand dynasty. It was named after Karim Khan and served as his residential quarters. The castle resembles a medieval fortress.

The citadel was used as a prison in the past. Today, it is a museum run by Iran's Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization.

Arg-e-Karim Khan was built in 1766 CE. There are numerous buildings within the castle compound. The north building was used in the winter, while the south was for summer use, and the west served all seasons.

The rooms have beautiful decorations which is typical of buildings during the rule of Zand King Karim Khan.

It has four circular towers on the corners, one of which on the southeastern side has a distinctive slope. Decoration of this complex has been destroyed.

The citadel is spread over 12,800 square meters and the height of each tower is 14 meters.

There is a large tile depicting the scene of killing of the white devil by Rostam (a hero of Shahnameh, a masterpiece by Ferdowsi) at the entrance gateway of the citadel.

There are fountains (still in operation), flower and vegetable gardens and fruit trees.

Source: Iran-daily

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