Shiraz

Shiraz is a large city with over a million inhabitants located in the south of Iran in the Fars province on a high plain at an altitude of 1500m asl. Due to its high altitude and location the climate is relatively mild throughout the year with mild winters and bearable summers. Shiraz has been inhabited for over 4000 years, with the first reference found on Elamite clay tablets from 2000 BC. Since the 13th century Shiraz has been a major centre for Persian culture and has experienced growing prosperity. During the Zand dynasty (AD 1747-79) Shiraz was the capital of Iran. Nowadays Shiraz has a pleasant city centre with many historical sights and pleasant gardens. The city is also a major industrial centre in Iran, having a major oil refinery and a sizable electronics industry.
I'd like to recommend my guide in Shiraz, Farzaneh Boloori (leo.farzaneh@gmail.com), a competent and friendly lady with a deep knowledge of Shiraz and the surrounding area.