Omar Khayyam : A Persian Mathematician, Philosopher, Poet, Astronomer
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Khayyam (1048 – 1131) was a Persian poet, mathematician, astronomer and philosopher. His contribution to science is considered to be much ahead of its time. However what made his name eternal, are his poems.
Khayyam was born in Nishapur (also known as Neishabour), located in the northeast of Iran. This is also were he died and was eventually buried. His poems have been translated in many languages and are appreciated by scholars around the world. Some even consider him the most famous poet of east in the west.
His style of poetry is unique but well recognized. Most of his works are small quatrains also known as Ruba’I, which have deep philosophical meanings about life.
The tomb of Omar Khayyam is located in Nishapur and is considered a masterpiece of Iranian architecture. This mausoleum was constructed in 1963 and since then has become one of the most visited sites in Iran for poetry enthusiasts.
Near the mausoleum of Khayyam, there is a library and a museum. Upon entering the area, you will see a statue of Khayyam.
On the main memorial monument, there are 20 inscriptions of Khayyam’s poems in rhombus facets. The architect of this memorial is Houshang Seihoun, who passed away in 2014.
Khayyam’s poems are still very popular even between the Iranian youths.
Source: Visit Iran
