Tehran, Iran, October 22, 2015

The Green Palace was built by the Qajars and remodelled by the Pahlavis.  Reza Shah only lived here one year, apparently he didn't like the mirrored stalactites hanging from the ceiling nor the bed.  It's rumoured he slept on the floor.  The place reminded me of Graceland, sort of 70s style-

Around the back-

The mountain behind the palace is about 2500 meters.  There's a chair lift and they downhill ski-

The Golestan Palace is also a monument to the Qajar rulers.  Nasser Al-Din Shah (1841-96) built it after visiting the fine palaces in Europe.  

The 19th century tile work is magnificent.  The whole building is tiled!

The Khalvat -e Karim Khani or Karim Khan Nook is where Karim Khan Zand lived.  Built in 1759, it was later that Nasser Al-Din Shah enjoyed relaxing on the terrace-

 Nasser Al-Din Shah is buried in the right corner of the above terrace-

Lunch was koofteh- a large meatball made from spices, an apricot, vegetables, rice and ground lamb.  It was delicious-

After a meal, incense is burned to wish good luck-

And so it is with great fondness that I will remember Iran.  The people are some of the friendliest and most welcoming in the world.  I've had a great time here but it's time to move on.  I'm looking forward to Jordan!