Chehel Sotoun, or chihil sotoon, or the Palace of Forty Columns, is a pavilion in Isfahan, Iran. Architects built this architectural structure during the seventeenth century in the Safavid period, and studies have regarded the monument as an example of Persian culture and art. With its beautiful construction, artistic paintings, and garden, it is one of the most famous structures in Iran.

Chehel Sotoun is in the central part of Isfahan. The palace was not only a royal space but also the main throne, as well as a reception or banquet, in which the Safavid monarchs entertained guests, important personalities, and foreign envoys. Maybe that is why, through the geometric shapes of the buildings, the details and windows, and its architecture, the palace acquired the elegance and grandeur of Persian art to testify to the skill and knowledge of Persian architects and jewelers. 

What does Chehel Sotoun mean?

Chehel Sotoun means “Forty Columns” in Persian. Originally constructed in the period of Shah Abbas II, they provided the architectural plan for the audience with royal premises designed for the reception of audiences, ceremonious negotiations with state guests, and stately receptions or banquets. Twenty small wooden pillars support this kind of structure; therefore, the name Chehel Sotoun has been attributed to mean forty columns, but there are twenty. If observed from the center of the water reflection, the columns become twice in number and thus make the impression of forty columns in total.

Therefore, the concept of reflection plays an important role in Persian culture, depicting the Persians’ ability to harmonize all the required symmetry and beauty. The reflecting pool has the same role in reinforcing the impression of a massive and majestic palace. The number forty in Persian culture has its special significance regarding richness, spirituality and long-lastingness. This gives palaces an extra dimension to their visual experiences of the aesthetic.

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History of Chehel Sotoun

Chehel Sotoun photo

Chehel Sotoun Palace was constructed during the Safavid Dynasty, during the reign of Abbas II in about 1647. The palace was designed to lodge and deify its guests and diplomats and fathom the grandeur of the Safavid Empire. Such ostentatious architectural projects were indeed used by the Safavid rulers as a means of conveying their power, authority, and patronage of arts and architecture masters.

Over the years, Chehel Sotoun has hosted many events, such as treaty signings, diplomatic negotiations, and rejoicing. It has stayed on the walls of various kings, ambassadors, and dignitaries worldwide. This palace was also used to perform arts such as recitation of poetry, music, and drama, a popular practice in the Persian empire.

Nevertheless, the palace has not been without some of its share of tests of time. Over the centuries, it has been subjected to destructive natural phenomena and was damaged severely in the 18th century with fire, the effects of which were an attempt at restoration. Nevertheless, at present, Chehel Sotoun is still a unique landmark of Persian history and culture, and it is observing the constant transformation of Isfahan.

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Chehel Sotoun Architecture

The architecture of the Palace Chehel Sotoun is an interesting combination of Persian, Islamic, and Safavid periods. It also has a large porch of twenty high wooden columns and a beautiful wooden carved roof. These columns are of plane tree wood well placed to give this building a fascinating frontage that arrests one’s attention the first instance. Before the pavilion, there is a pool of water; this has the optical effect of making the four columns look like forty columns.

The interior of Chehel Sotoun is also quite interesting. These paintings include frescoes, murals, and tiles, covering all aspects of Persian mythology, historical wars, and power demonstrations. The largest hall is considerably big, and there is a great painting on the walls depicting major events in the Safavid period; the wars and the parties such as the business parties. Multicolored clothing design, refinement of the brush, and aesthetic lineation reveal the remarkable mastery of the silversmiths of that period.

Like most Persian gardens, the Chehel Sotoun Garden has a unique layout with two parallel and symmetrical pathways surrounded by water fountains and trees. Many structures in Persian gardens are an example of the concept of asa, which emphasizes order, symmetry, and careful shaping and subdivision of space, and uses the basic forms of water, tree and geometry to symbolize paradise. 

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Paintings of Chehel Sotoun Palace

Chehel Sotoun Palace

Among the wonders inside Chehel Sotoun, paintings, and mural art seem most renowned for their beautiful and historical nature. Both of these paintings are on the walls of the main hall and depict what is in the history of the Persian Empire. These paintings depict mythological scenes, Royal incidents, and wars, thus giving an artistic description of the Safavid period.

Some of the notable paintings include:

  •                     The Battle of Chaldiran: Demonstration of warfare between the Safavid and Ottoman empires, emphasising the militaries of the Safavids.
  •                     The Reception of Mughal Emperor Humayun: How the Safavid & Mughal Empire related & showcased Iranian & Indian culture.
  •                     Scenes from Persian Mythology: Using characters from the Persian epic, the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) next to the legends of myth, which connects the visuals of the palace to folktales.

They are not mere decorations; paintings are social histories that glimpse the Safavid period’s politics, culture, and beliefs. These stories depicted on the palaces were painted with vivid colors, detailed work, and good composition, making art lovers and history lovers soften their hearts towards this palace.

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Isfahan Chehel Sotoun Museum

Nowadays, Chehel Sotoun Palace works as a museum where tourists can learn a great deal of the history of the Safavid period. Some facilities that display the artworks include ancient artifacts and historical documents, pottery, and artworks. Guests can appreciate the palace’s design while receiving information about the subject depicted in a painting and events in that building.

It also displays how restoration has been done on Chehel Sotoun to preserve its history. Of great significance more is also presented by companies which have restored Chehel Sotoun intending to preserve history. Like any other structure, the palace has faced a lot of destruction through the ages but has been well renovated as it initially looked. This tradition has played a key role in ensuring that the structure remains one of Iran’s most historically significant structures.

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How to Go to Chehel Sotoun Palace?

Chehel Sotoun is situated in Isfahan, Iran; therefore, citizens or tourists worldwide can easily access it. Here are some practical ways to reach the palace:

  •                     By Car: Tourists can use a taxi cab or via car to access the site; it is well located and indicated.
  •                     By Public Transport: Any part of Isfahan can be accessed through buses extending to the city’s historic area. It is 10 minutes from the bus stop to Chehel Sotoun.
  •                     Walking: If you are locating your hotel near Naqsh-e Jahan Square it will only take a few minutes to take a walk to Chehel Sotoun. It is a walk through the history of Isfahan and a decent way to discover the beauty of the city on foot.
Chehel Sotoun Museum

Best Time to Visit Chehel Sotoun Palace

It is recommended to visit Chehel Sotoun in spring from March to May as well as in autumn from September to November because of the fords weather in Isfahan. Therefore, The gardens remained green during these times to complement the palace’s beauty.

Visiting Hours: The current visiting hours for Chehel Sotoun in Isfahan, Iran, are typically:

  •     Summer (April to September): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  •     Winter (October to March): 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

However, these hours may change sometimes on Fridays or public holidays. 

Where to Eat Near Chehel Sotoun Palace

Based on the majesty of the area of Chehel Sotoun, one might get hungry therefore have your meals here. Here are some popular dining options nearby:

  •                     Azadegan Tea House: A tea house that serves traditional Persian tea and sweets and savories.
  •                     Shahrzad Restaurant: Famous as the Persian Grill House offering mouthwatering kebabs, stews, Rice and other Persian cuisine foods.
  •                     Bastani Traditional Restaurant: Serving real Iranian food coupled with an establishment with a traditional touch.

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Where to Stay Near Chehel Sotoun Palace

For visitors planning to spend a few days exploring Isfahan, here are some recommended accommodations near Chehel Sotoun:

  •                     Abbasi Hotel: The historical hotel with a Persian touch, lovely architecture, and all the necessary comfort for the guest. Abbasi Hotel
  •                     Setareh Hotel: Family-friendly, cheap, and near most of Isfahan’s attractions. Setareh Hotel
  •                     Ghasr Monshi Hotel: The hotel days that were originally included was to be a small hotel structure with an Iranian style in decorations and architecture. Ghasr Monshi Hotel

For more information on accommodations, see iRun2Iran.

Conclusion

The Chehel Sotoun is a famous pavilion in Isfahan, famous for its excellent architecture, stunning paintings, and fantastic garden. A historic Persian building resulting from Safavid architecture provides a deep insight into Persian culture. The reflecting pool and forty-column illusion are likely the most prominent examples of Persian design, so these sites are worth visiting. If you happen to be a history or art lover or are just looking for a place to wander about quietly, Chehel Sotoun is worth visiting.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chehel Sotoun Palace

Where is Chehel Sotoun located?

This palace is in Isfahan, and other sightseeing places like Naqsh-e Jahan Square are nearby.

What are the main features of the palace?

This palace contains wooden columns, excellent fresco paintings, and a pool of water. The painting styles include historical and mythological scenes in its interior parts.

When is the best time to visit Chehel Sotoun?

The best time to visit is spring and autumn since the weather is cool and the flowers and trees bloom.

What are the entry fees per person? 

The entrance fee at Chehel Sotoun is 150000 IRR for Iranian citizens and 500000 IRR for foreigners.

Why was the Chehel Sotoun built?

Chehel Sotoun was established as a royal pavilion in the Safavid era for the main purpose of receiving guests and as a place to hold ceremonies.