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Isfahan is one of the
most attractive ancient cities in Iran. It entered upon
its golden age in 1598, when Shah Abbas I, the famous
Safavid King, chose it as the center of his government. He
redesigned the city and endowed it with many exquisite
buildings, including mosques, palaces and pavilions. One
of these buildings is called "Chehel Sotun
Palace" (means: 40 Columns Palace).
Chehel Sotun Palace is striking example of Safavid king's
court. It is, in fact, magnificent pavilion, built in the
middle of a garden covering 67,000 Sq. m, as the far end of
long rectangle shaped pool.
Chehel Sotun Palace is actually supported by 20 tall
wooden columns. Each of the columns is made of single tree
trunk in the front porch. These columns are reflected in
the still water of the pool in front of the building and
altogether display 40 columns. This is why this pavilion
is called Chehel Sotun Palace.
It is believed that the construction of this palace
started during the reign of Shah Abbas I and was completed
during the reign of Shah Abbas II. It was inaugurated i
1646 at the presence of Shah Abbas II and foreign
ambassadors. The palace was used for
state occasions. Safavid kings received their dignitaries
and ambassadors, here.
Among historical monuments of Safavid era, Chehel Sotun
Palace is famous as a veranda and throne room of Shah
Abbas. It has one terrace, overlooking the pool and various
state reception halls.
Forty-column building was erected in compliance with the
traditional architecture, i.e. with arches and openings of
objectivity. Small rooms around original hall, along with
Eastern and Western verandas and Northern and Southern
verandas, have surrounded the hall, like strong belt. This
building has Eastern and Western symmetrical axis.
Geometrical order of its plan and architectural facade
give rhythmical and dignified view.
Large and small halls are decorated with huge and
attractive paintings, on the wall and ceiling, including
senses of Safavid wars against Ottoman, Royal ceremonies
and formal receptions.
Wall paintings of the building are superlative in their
kind. On the outside are paintings of foreign emissaries,
who visited Safavid court as well. Magnificent miniatures
on walls and ceilings are among this colorful and elegant
treasure.
Small paintings show senses with the style of miniature of
Isfahan school. Around the building, particularly in
Northern and Southern verandas, exist architectural
ornaments with mural paintings, in which the influence of
Western and European tastes are apparent. Chehel Sotun is
regarded new era in Iranian architectural ornaments.
Harmonious and charming architecture of this palace is
decorated with:
water color and oil murals in Iranian and European styles
painting on wood
painting on marble cornices
plinths in the form of curtains
stucco-work
border work
gilding at large scale on wall and ceiling
In 1706, Chehel Sotun got in fire. It is restored during
past centuries.
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