Karim Khan Citadel

Karim Khan Citadel is a rectangular fortress in Shiraz with four round brick towers connected by walls reaching about 12 meters high. The structure includes a complex with courtyards and uses stone, brick, wood, marble, and other materials in its construction.

The citadel was built between 1766 and 1767 as a royal residence for Karim Khan Zand and later served as a prison. Over time, the building was converted into a museum to preserve this important architectural period.

The citadel displays Persian architectural traditions with stone pillars and marble decorations that define its spaces. You can see rooms designed for different seasons, reflecting how people organized daily life during the Zand period.

The site has multiple entrances with clearly marked paths that guide visitors through the towers and courtyards. Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground is uneven in places and some areas have stairs.

The southeast tower has developed a noticeable lean similar to the Tower of Pisa. This tilt developed over time, making it a remarkable example of how age and settling affect large stone structures.

Location: Fars Province

Location: Shiraz

Official opening: 1767

Architectural style: Zand architecture

Height: 12 m

Length: 93.6 m

Width: 72.8 m

Made from material: stone, brick, wood, marble, lapis lazuli

GPS coordinates: 29.61740,52.54460

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:47