Fars Province has emerged as the top destination for cultural tourism in Iran during the Nowruz holidays, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to its historic and cultural landmarks. Official statistics confirm a significant increase in domestic tourism, solidifying Fars as a key hub for Iranian heritage.
According to the Fars Province Tourism Directorate, historical sites across the region saw record-breaking visitor numbers between March 20 and March 29, 2025. The Tomb of Hafez in Shiraz, a symbol of Persian poetry and culture, attracted the highest number of visitors on March 29, with 32,307 tourists. Persepolis, the ancient ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, followed closely with 28,977 visitors, while the Mausoleum of Sa’di, another prominent site in Shiraz, recorded 21,921 guests on the same day.
Additional notable attractions in the province included Pasargadae, the final resting place of Cyrus the Great, which hosted 14,242 visitors, and the Karim Khan Citadel in Shiraz, which drew 13,350 tourists.
Tourism Surge Reflects Fars’ Cultural Prominence
The overall tourism figures for the Nowruz period, spanning from March 20 to March 29, further highlight Fars’ significance as a premier cultural destination. These numbers underscore the growing interest in Iran’s historical and cultural heritage, as travelers continue to flock to the province to explore its ancient monuments and landmarks. The boost in tourism not only strengthens the local economy but also signifies a growing national awareness and appreciation for the country’s cultural treasures.
The Cultural Heritage of Fars
Fars, historically known as Persis, was the heart of the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BC), founded by Cyrus the Great, and later served as the administrative center under Darius I, who established Persepolis as the empire’s ceremonial capital. Today, Fars remains a cornerstone of Iran’s cultural heritage, home to several iconic poets, historic sites, and architectural masterpieces.
Shiraz, the provincial capital, is renowned as the city of poetry, nightingales, and gardens. In addition to its literary fame, Shiraz has long been a center of learning and was the capital during the Zand dynasty (1751–1794). The city boasts several stunning landmarks, including the Afif-Abad Garden, the Tombs of Hafez and Sa’di, and the Atigh Jameh Mosque. The city’s lush Persian gardens, such as Narenjestan Garden and Eram Garden, continue to captivate visitors from around the globe, reinforcing Shiraz’s reputation as a cultural jewel of Iran.
