Tomb of Saadi
Saadi is one of the great Iranian poets who has many lovers. The mausoleum of this great poet is a very beautiful example of unique Persian gardens. Tomb of Saadi is one of the tourism attractions of Shiraz city. Saadi was buried at the end of his life at a Khanqah at the current location.
Description
Abu-Muhammad Muslih al Din Ibn Abdollah Shirazi also known as Saadi of Shirazi lived in 13th century, but he’s a man for all centuries. Given that there are no independent sources to confirm the exact year of his birth, both of these years have been derived from his writings and his literary works. The rich depth of his writings and ideas with social and moral values have gone beyond time. His words have been quoted by Persian speaking people inside Iran and outside alike. Even Western sources have quoted him and continue to do so. He’s widely recognized as one of the great masters of classical Persian literature.
As an Iranian and non-Iranian tourist attraction, and as one of Iran's hightlights, Tomb of Saadi is a host to many visitors every year, which is on tourist's "must see places" list. He is well-known as "Master of Speech" among persian scholars and one of the best poets of the classical persian literature.
Architecture
The entrance of the complex is designed by Andre Godar, a French architect. The building is surrounded by a beautiful garden. The first tomb of Saadi was made in Zand dynasty and repaired in Qajar dynasty. Finally, contemporary Tomb was made by Mohsen Foroughi adapted from Chehel Sotoun palace. Architectural planning of this building contains some elements of Islamic Architecture. One of the most important features in Islamic Architecture is the existence of water and its circulation which appears in the shape of Howz. The equivalent of Howz in English is the pool. There is a small pool in front of the building in which people throw coins for their wishes to come true. There is also an octagonal fish pond on the left side of the building, where people used to wash their clothes, believing they will be blessed. The water filling the fish pond comes from a water qanat. In the courtyard, there are two rectangular ponds on either side of the main porch aligned with the north-south direction, and there is a long pool aligned with the east-west direction in front of the main porch of the tomb.
Saadi’s Literary Works
Within two years after his return to Shiraz, Saadi wrote his two most famous books: Bustan (The Orchard) in 1257 and Gulistan (Rose Garden) in 1258. Bustan is completely in verse illustrating virtues recommended to Muslims and Gulistan is mainly prose, containing stories and personal anecdotes. His works in forms of Lyrics and Odes are also well-known by the enthusiasts of Persia literature. He has created some works in Arabic as well.
Opening hours
Saadi tomb is open for visitors in spring, summer time from 08.30 am to 22.30 pm and in autumn, winter time from 07.30 am to 21.00 pm (every day). Late April and early May is the best time to visit the tomb. At this time you can smell the fragrance of Orange blossom and enjoy the beauty of Spring. It is noteworthy that, evening is the best time to visit of this historical place.