Global - Technology - Review

Once known as Persia, Iran is the home of one of the world’s longest continuous civilisations, encompassing the great empires of the Medes, Seleucids and Sassanids. A rugged and mountainous country, Iran also has rainforest and desert regions. The rich heritage of different cultures means that Iran has many architectural remains, both from the distant past and the Islamic era. Among these are Persepolis, the great city of Cyrus and Darius, and Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan, with its palace, mosques and Imperial Bazaar. Tehran is said to be the thirty second national capital, a line that begins with ancient Susa, seven thousand years ago. Tehran’s most striking monument is the modern Azadi Tower. Iran has well developed industrial base, including electronics, automotive products, a space programme, and large reserves of oil and natural gas. Over a million Iranians are engaged in the manufacture of carpets; there is a long tradition of excellence in the decorative arts. Food specialities are yogurt and caviar. Shi’a Islam is the national religion. The names of Omar Khayyam and the lyric poet Hafez are the best known in a rich poetic and literary heritage that stretches back for centuries.