Culture of Iran
With a long-standing and proud
civilization, Persian culture is among the richest in the world.
Two and a half millennia of inspiring literature, thousands of
poets and writers, magnificent and impressive architecture, live
customs dating back to Zoroastrians over 3000 years ago, and
other unique characteristics of the nation are rivaled by only a
few countries.
Throughout the history, this grand treasure of Persia was
gradually transferred to eastern and western nations. Iran's
significant contribution into the world civilization in many
respects is indispensable. Many ceremonies of the ancient
Persians are the basis of western celebrations.
Among the ceremonies still being held are Norouz, Charshanbeh
Suri, Sizdah Bedar, Yalda Night and Haft Sin. Sitting around
Haft Sin and reciting Hafez, visiting family and friends during
Norouz celebration, night of Charshanbeh Suri and jumping over
the bonfire in the hope of getting rid of all illnesses and
misfortunes, spending Sizdah Bedar, the 13th day of the New
Year, in nature, are old interesting traditions coming from the
Achaemenid Empire.
Another eminent feature of Persian culture is art. In fact
culture and art are two closely interwoven concepts forming the
soul of human civilizations. Persian exquisite carpets, subtle
soulful classic music, outstanding tile work of unique blue
mosques, old influential architectural style and countless
brilliant literary works are famous in the world.
Persian or Farsi, is one of the world's oldest languages still
in use today, and is known to have one of the most powerful
literary traditions and potentials. Persian poetry with
masterpieces of Saadi, Hafiz, Rumi and Omar Khayyam is well
known around the world.
As all Persians are quick to point out, Farsi is not related to
Arabic, it is a member of the Indo-European family of languages.
One more art intertwined with Persian culture, worth mentioning,
is the art of cooking. Persian foods, accompanied by herbs and
spices are product of the creativity, skill and patience of many
generations of cooks.
Undoubtedly, in this melting pot of civilization everybody will
be overwhelmed by the beauties of the country and the depth of
nation's colorful and lively culture. |
