TEHRAN – Isfahan Province, located in central Iran, topped the national tourism marketing rankings throughout the Persian calendar last year (up to March).
“Isfahan province has taken the top spot in the national tourism marketing and advertising rankings,” a local official in charge of tourism said on Sunday.
Alireza Habibi further explained that the ranking is based on an evaluation of marketing measures in all states of the country.
He further explained that the evaluation process includes eight main indicators and 25 sub-indicators.
In his concluding speech, Prime Minister Habibie attributed the achievement to proper planning, efforts to attract inbound tourists, investment and research into tourism target markets, and promoting Isfahan as a tourism pillar.
Once a bustling crossroads of Iran’s international trade and diplomacy, Isfahan has now grown into one of Iran’s leading tourist destinations, attracting many international visitors. Known for its wealth of architectural wonders, including unparalleled Islamic architecture, bustling bazaars, extensive museums, picturesque Persian gardens and charming tree-lined boulevards, Isfahan offers a variety of experiences for the discerning traveler.
Located on the banks of the Zayandeh River, the provincial capital of Isfahan owes its appeal not only to its many historic bridges but also to the life-giving river that gives the city its innate beauty and fertility. Known as Nesf-e-Jahan, or “Half the World,” Isfahan boasted the grandeur of cities twice its size at its height, with a population of nearly one million.
The iconic blue tiles that adorn Isfahan’s Islamic architecture and imposing bridges provide a striking contrast to the surrounding Iranian arid countryside. At the heart of the city is the vast Imam Square, also known as Naghsh-e Jahan Square, which measures an impressive 500 metres by 160 metres. Built in the early 17th century, this UNESCO-certified square is home to some of Isfahan’s most fascinating landmarks and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and architectural splendour.
Apart from being a cultural treasure trove, the city boasts of state-of-the-art medical facilities and has emerged as a major medical tourism hub attracting patients from across the globe, cementing its position as a premier destination in the field of medical tourism.
XF/AM
