Isfahan, Central IRAN

A six hour train ride brought me today to the city of Isfahan, about 340 km south of Tehran. Isfahan was once one of the largest cities in the world. It flourished from 1050 to 1722, particularly in the 16th century under the Safavid dynasty, when it became the capital of Persia for the second time in its history. Today, Isfahan is the third largest city in Iran and famous for its production of fine carpets, textiles, steel, and handicrafts.

Isfahan also has nuclear experimental reactors as well as facilities for producing nuclear fuel. It is famous for its Islamic architecture with many beautiful tree lined boulevards, covered bridges, palaces, mosques, and minarets.

Had some light snow on the way, and this evening Isfahan is a chilly 2 degrees Celsius. This will be my base for the next few days as I explore the city and areas around it.

Met great people on the train from Tehran who kept offering nuts, sweets and sandwiches - and eventually offered me to stay at their home. I declined their homestay as I prefer to stay in a hotel close to the attractions. People in the train invited me into their cabins. Everybody wants to know where I'm from, why I'm visiting Iran, and curious to know my impressions of Iran and its people. They sure are proud of their country. Had dinner in a lovely traditional restaurant in a stately building. I'm off to bed now - dead tired.