Iranian architecture is a feast for the eyes, blending symmetry, colour, and geometry in ways that leave visitors speechless. But if you want to sound like you know what you’re talking about, you’ll need the right vocabulary. Here are six Persian words that’ll make you sound like a pro when describing Iran’s architectural wonders.
1. گنبد (Gonbad) – The Iconic Dome
گنبد
[ɡun.ˈbað]“Dome”
The crown jewel of Persian architecture. These towering domes, often covered in dazzling turquoise tiles, are everywhere in Iran - mosques, tombs, even bazaars. The curvature isn’t just for show; it’s designed to distribute weight and create an awe-inspiring interior space.
2. ایوان (Eyvan) – The Grand Archway
ایوان
[ʔaj.ˈwɑːn]“Iwan”
A massive vaulted hall, open on one side. Think of it as Persia’s answer to the Roman arch, but with way more intricate tilework. You’ll see these in mosques and palaces, often framing courtyards or leading to prayer halls.
3. مقرنس (Mogharnas) – The Honeycomb Magic
مقرنس
/moɣæɾˈnæs/“Stalactite vaulting”
Those mind-bending geometric patterns that look like frozen honeycombs or cascading stalactites? That’s mogharnas. It’s not just decoration - it’s structural genius, breaking up surfaces to diffuse light and create depth.
4. کاشی کاری (Kashi-kari) – The Tilework That’ll Blow Your Mind
کاشی کاری
/kɒːʃiː kɒːˈɾiː/“Tilework”
Persian tiles aren’t just pretty - they’re mathematical masterpieces. From floral motifs to Quranic calligraphy, the precision is unreal. The blue-and-gold colour scheme isn’t random either; it symbolises heaven and divine light.
5. حوض (Hoz) – The Life-Giving Pool
حوض
[hawz]“Pool”
Central to Persian gardens and courtyards, these rectangular pools aren’t just for aesthetics. They cool the air, reflect architecture, and symbolise paradise. The symmetry is so precise you could use it to calibrate your camera.
6. شبستان (Shabestan) – The Cool Underground Oasis
شبستان
[ʃa.βis.tɑːn]“Underground chamber”
A genius solution to Iran’s scorching summers - subterranean spaces with windcatchers (badgirs) that funnel cool air. Often found in mosques, these shaded areas are where people gather to escape the heat.
Pro tip: If you’re visiting Iran, pair these words with basic Persian phrases to impress locals. They’ll appreciate the effort, even if your pronunciation is... creative.
Next time you’re staring up at the گنبد of Nasir al-Mulk Mosque or tracing the مقرنس in Sheikh Lotfollah, you’ll have the vocabulary to match the awe. And if you’re into linguistic deep dives, check out our guide to beautiful Persian nature words next.
