Shiraz souvenirs – A Souvenir Guide to Shiraz

“Beautiful city of Shiraz has been intertwined with poetry, literature, and art from ancient times, but its allure isn’t confined solely to the presence of eloquent poets. By visiting the city of oranges and blossoms and exploring its historical and remarkable sites, you can collect the best souvenirs of Shiraz for your loved ones who didn’t accompany you, capturing the essence of this beautiful city.

The tourist appeal of Shiraz has led to the creation of well-equipped and beautiful accommodations to host Iranian and international travelers. By selecting the finest hotels in Shiraz, you can experience a memorable stay in the city’s 5-star hotels, alongside utilizing first-class facilities and services.

Undoubtedly, being in a city with astounding historical and mesmerizing sites such as the mausoleums of great poets, accessibility to the sights is a crucial factor in choosing Shiraz hotels. However, proximity to traditional markets and shopping centers can also be a significant attraction for travelers in choosing their accommodation. The possibility of purchasing the most memorable souvenirs of Shiraz for your friends and loved ones adds to the appeal.

Introduction to the most delectable Shirazi souvenirs
You must be curious to know what the best delicacies for Shirazi souvenirs are. After acquainting yourself with these delightful and appealing delicacies, you won’t be able to resist buying them for yourself and your close ones.”

Faludeh and Masghati are two popular and delicious souvenirs from Shiraz.

best souvenirs from shiraz

Shiraz, the City of Poets and Gardens, is a treasure trove of cultural delights and historical wonders. From its awe-inspiring mosques and gardens to its vibrant bazaars and bustling streets, Shiraz offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. And what better way to capture the essence of this remarkable city than by bringing back some unique souvenirs?

As you wander through the labyrinthine alleyways of the Grand Bazaar, you’ll be enticed by a dazzling array of handicrafts, culinary treats, and antiques. Here are some of the best souvenirs to take home from Shiraz, each embodying the rich heritage and craftsmanship of this ancient city:

Faludeh Shirazi:

Few haven’t heard of the delightful Faludeh in Shiraz. If you’ve traveled to this beautiful city, you’ve surely relished Faludeh in its beautiful gardens. The beauty of Shirazi edible souvenirs like Faludeh lies in the fact that by learning its preparation method, you can take its memorable taste home with you. The secret to the distinctive taste of Shirazi Faludeh lies in the use of organic ingredients such as sour cherry syrup, fresh lemon juice, and other pure essences.

Masghati:

Masghati, known as one of Shiraz’s souvenirs, holds high nutritional value, hence gaining a large following among those fond of delectable treats. It is a type of confectionery primarily made from starch and pistachios. Masghati comes in various flavors catering to different tastes, some of the best Masghati varieties in Shiraz include:

– Pistachio Masghati
– Barberry-flavored Masghati
– Rose-flavored Masghati

Masghati is a soft and transparent confection in Iran made with rose water, starch, sugar and water. Along with koloocheh, it is a tradition of Nowruz New Year celebrations. Pistachio, saffron, and cardamom can also be used to make masghati. Masghati is produced in Fars province, particularly in Kazeroun, Larestan county and Shiraz. The masghati which is produced in Kazeroun and Larestan are more viscous and sweeter than the Shirazi one. Koloocheh and Masghati are souvenirs of Shiraz.

Youka or Kak, a Famous Shirazi Delicacy:

Local sweets with delightful flavors and scents are always included in travelers’ shopping baskets. If you’re curious about Shirazi sweet souvenirs, Youka is the best and most delicious option.

To make this Shirazi treat, a thin dough enriched with cinnamon and powdered sugar or syrup is rolled. However, in Kermanshah, delicious Kaks are also prepared. For enthusiasts of sweets, the best Shirazi souvenir is Kak or Youka.

Shiraz locals often use Youka, this light and tasty treat, as a snack. Since Kak has a long shelf life, it’s considered the best choice for a Shirazi souvenir. The ingredients for making Kak include local oil, wheat flour, powdered sugar, eggs, cardamom and almond powder, water, salt, and dough seasoning, as well as pistachio powder, almond slices, or powdered sugar.

These delightful souvenirs from Shiraz capture the essence of the city’s flavors and make for wonderful gifts for friends and family.

Roasted Almonds, the Most Energizing Souvenir from Shiraz

One of the most intriguing souvenirs from Shiraz is roasted almonds, made by boiling almonds in thick sugar syrup. The almonds are boiled until crystalline plant shapes form around them. People in Shiraz use roasted almonds as a substitute for sugar when drinking tea. The high durability and high energy content of this treat have made it one of the best-selling souvenirs in Shiraz.

Koloocheh, the Most Delicious Souvenir from Shiraz

If you were to ask, “What’s the best souvenir from Shiraz according to kids?” the answer would undoubtedly be Koloocheh, a sweet, delightful treat resembling rice cookies, often adorned with poppy seeds.

Due to its high demand, Koloocheh is usually packaged beautifully and often sold alongside Masghati in the market as a Shirazi souvenir. These local pastries have a very long shelf life and are not usually produced with nuts. The required ingredients for making Koloocheh include white flour, rice flour, eggs, solid oil, and rosewater.

Halva Kashei, Shiraz’s Unique Souvenir

To prepare Halva Kashei, water, oil, rosewater, and saffron are used. This type of halva has been historically recognized as a famous dessert in the city of Shiraz, and it was often served by the warm-hearted people of Shiraz to their guests in various gatherings. It seems that because it was mostly served in a small bowl, it acquired the name Halva Kashei.

Some traditional restaurants serve Halva Kashei as a dessert after local dishes like Shirazi cabbage rice. While you might not be able to acquire this particular type of halva as a souvenir from Shiraz, by learning how to prepare it, you can always enjoy its wonderful taste at home and savor it with your loved ones.

Ranginak, Shiraz’s Tastiest Edible Souvenir

For some travelers, Ranginak is considered the best-known dessert from Shiraz. This energizing treat is prepared in its unique way in the southern part of the country and has garnered a lot of fans. Particularly during Ramadan, Ranginak is a regular guest on Iftar tables. This delicious Shirazi souvenir is made by frying sifted flour and then adding it to cooked oil. A little of the mix is poured into a container, and then a date and walnut are added to it. Finally, it is garnished with pistachio kernels and coconut powder.

Sliced and decorated Ranginak in beautiful packaging is sold in Shiraz’s markets. During your visit to Fars province’s center, you can purchase this delicious treat as a souvenir from Shiraz and gift its delightful taste to your loved ones.

Fasa Bread, Shiraz’s Traditional Sweet Treat

This sweet delicacy, also known as “Komaaj,” originates from the local cuisine of Fasa in the Fars province. Travelers in Shiraz have long bought Fasa bread as a souvenir, and it has amassed numerous fans, largely due to its remarkable longevity. The ingredients for making it include:

– Wheat flour
– Powdered sugar
– Solid oil
– Sweet syrup
– Ginger powder
– Cardamom
– Saffron
– Sesame seeds

Nan-e Mosht: A Souvenir from Shiraz

Nan-e Mosht, with its warm properties, is a nutritious bread owing to the use of dates in its preparation. This Shirazi souvenir can be prepared in two forms: fried in oil or baked in the oven. The primary ingredients for making Nan-e Mosht include:

– Oil
– Wheat flour
– Ginger
– Cinnamon
– Dates

Halva Kharak: A Unique Shirazi Souvenir

Kharak refers to the yellowish, unripe dates that taste similar to sour cherries. In Jiroft, a type of halva is made from Kharak dates. Halva Kharak, unlike common halvas, is firmer and looks similar to saffron. Its remarkable longevity makes it a very suitable choice among Shirazi souvenirs.

Best Exquisite Herbal Extracts as Souvenirs from Shiraz

You can bring astonishing herbal extracts known for their medicinal properties as souvenirs from Shiraz. Shiraz’s unique and extraordinary climate has fostered a wide variety of gardens and orchards, providing a diverse range of high-quality herbal extracts. Among the most popular are:

– Rosewater from Shiraz’s rose gardens
– Extracts of narcissus, bitter orange blossoms, and sumac

Bitter Orange Blossom Extract: Shiraz’s Unique Souvenir

In the city of fragrant bitter orange blossoms, the best answer to “What’s a Shirazi souvenir?” is undoubtedly the bitter orange blossom extract. During early spring in Shiraz, the aroma of bitter orange blossoms will captivate you. Made by collecting bitter orange flowers, this extract is the most beloved souvenir from Shiraz. Gifting this souvenir allows your loved ones to reminisce about you each time they use the bitter orange blossom syrup.

Sumac: Shiraz’s Medicinal Souvenir

Sumac, derived from a small tree with yellow flowers, has medicinal properties, hence its numerous enthusiasts. The abundance of sumac trees in Shiraz, thanks to its unique climate, has made this city a perfect source for this exquisite souvenir. The beautiful blossoms of sumac are used to create this unique Shirazi springtime souvenir. Sumac extract is among the most commonly used food ingredients in traditional medicine, known for its medicinal benefits such as:

– Strengthening the heart
– Nervous system reinforcement
– Aiding the digestive system

Nastaran Flower Extract, Shiraz’s Most Fragrant Souvenir

The Nastaran flower, a beautiful and fragrant species, offers an extract that stands among the best souvenirs of Shiraz. Its incomparable aroma captivates everyone, especially during hot summer days, providing vitality and tranquility. Other benefits of Nastaran extract include:

– Easing stomach pain
– Assisting in kidney stone elimination

Rosewater, a Souvenir of Shiraz’s Spectacular Sites

Meymand, situated 95 kilometers from Shiraz, is a prime hub for obtaining rosewater, matching the quality of Qamsar’s rosewater in Kashan. Hence, it’s a favorite among many travelers. Adding Shiraz rosewater to your tea guarantees to win you over with its distinctive scent. Gifting Shiraz rosewater shares this delightful fragrance with your loved ones.

Sour Grape Juice and Lemon, Edible Souvenirs of Shiraz

Shirazi sour grape juice, made from the bountiful vineyards of this beautiful city, is well-known for adding a unique flavor to local dishes like “Aabghooreh.” The extensive vineyards and high-quality sour grape juice production have made this edible item highly sought-after among Shirazi souvenir buyers.

Apart from grapes, Shiraz boasts numerous citrus orchards. Surely, the name “Shirazi lemon” has crossed your ears. The aroma and flavor of Fars Province lemons have rendered quality lemon juice among the top-selling Shirazi souvenirs. Imagine relishing authentic Iranian cuisine alongside Shirazi salads and the tangy and delicious lemon.

If you’re traveling to the city of oranges and tangerines in summer, fresh lemon and fruit juice should be at the top of your Shirazi souvenir shopping list. Lemon syrups and jams mixed in the warm air can be remarkably enjoyable and tasty.

Handicrafts, Shiraz’s Long-Lasting Souvenirs

The colorful and lustrous handicrafts of this beautiful city are irresistible, capturing the essence of Iranian culture and art. Purchasing handmade items is the best option for Shirazi souvenirs, keeping the memories of your trip alive for a long time.

Khatam Kari, Shiraz’s Finest Souvenir

Among the most elegant and intricate handicrafts, Khatam Kari stands out. This unique art involves arranging tiny wood pieces together. The history of Khatam Kari dates back to the Safavid era. Popular Khatam Kari products include small and large jewelry boxes and beautiful pen holders.

Decorative Items Featuring Persepolis Designs

Persepolis, one of Iran’s most magnificent ancient wonders, qualifies as a prominent attraction and souvenir of Shiraz. Beautiful decorative items featuring various parts of Persepolis attract attention in Shiraz’s markets, making it a special and distinctive souvenir for travelers. Observing these handicrafts reflects the glory and civilization of Iran, recalling your pleasant memories from the city of literature and art.

Silverware, the Most Attractive Shirazi Souvenirs

Upon visiting Shiraz’s markets, the exquisite Iranian art of silversmithing catches your eye. Artists create exceptional silver items, drawing in art enthusiasts. Silver pots and containers decorated with beautiful and artistic miniatures tempt every tourist to purchase them as Shirazi souvenirs.

Gyovh, Traditional Shirazi Souvenir

Gyovh, an ancient traditional Iranian footwear, is made in various cities. It is available in Shiraz’s bazaars and is considered an artistic souvenir. Gyovh, a beautiful fabric of Iran, offers excellent benefits for foot comfort and health, allowing air to pass through and preventing various skin ailments.

Glassware, Beautiful Shirazi Souvenirs

Stepping into Shiraz’s markets, one finds traditional Iranian glass art. Artisans showcase various glass products. It’s believed that the earliest glass art was found in Shush, and the art later expanded in Isfahan and Shiraz. These glass artworks are highly tempting as the best Shirazi souvenirs for art enthusiasts. Beautifully designed glass vases and jars display extraordinary artistry and appeal to tourists.

Ceramics, Colorful Shirazi Souvenirs

Ceramics are an ancient art that can be found worldwide. Different designs and colors of ceramics often reflect diverse cultures, showcasing the remarkable and distinguished art in various cities and countries. Beautiful and colorful ceramic containers are considered the best Shirazi souvenirs and have numerous fans among travelers in this beautiful city.

Enamelwork, one of the most popular souvenirs of Shiraz

Enamelwork is a prevalent craft in Shiraz, often involving artists using copper vessels and creating intricate designs, patterns, and lines with the help of fire. This valuable art form in Shiraz dates back 5000 years, reaching its zenith during the Safavid era. Both Iranian and foreign tourists are captivated by this art and often include the purchase of enameled vessels in their list of souvenirs from Shiraz.

Felt, a unique souvenir of Shiraz

Felt crafting is laborious and challenging. This Shirazi souvenir is made by matting wool fibers together, making its preparation time-consuming and difficult. Yet, the result is a beautiful, enduring piece that is soul-soothing. By buying beautiful felt pieces with natural designs and eye-catching colors, you infuse a fresh spirit into the ambiance of your home and keep alive the memories of a pleasant trip to Shiraz.

Carpets (Qalicheh), Kilims, and Traditional Rugs, handmade souvenirs of Shiraz

While carpet weaving is a valuable art in most Iranian cities, each region has its distinct patterns and designs. Traditional kilims are woven with natural colors and fibers. Nomads and rural residents in the Fars province create patterns on cotton and woolen rugs and kilims.

You can purchase these Shirazi souvenirs from traditional markets like Vakil Bazaar in Shiraz and bring the designs and colors of the city of oranges and tangerines back to your homeland. These beautiful weavings are not only valuable and enduring gifts but also contribute to the flourishing of handicrafts in villages and cities through their purchase.

Marquetry, beautiful Shirazi souvenir

Marquetry is one of the beautiful souvenirs of Shiraz. According to some historians, this art migrated from India to Iran, adopting Iranian colors and scents. Initially, marquetry was a combination of metal and wood. Indian artisans used a specific type of wood to create marquetry works, while Iranians used various woods with diverse colors. You can witness the most exquisite examples of marquetry in Shiraz and purchase them as valuable souvenirs for your loved ones.

Colorful Ceramic Vessels, an attractive Shirazi souvenir

Shirazi souvenirs include colorful ceramic vessels made in Estahban, Fars. Estahban ceramic works are listed among Iran’s cultural treasures. You can buy various beautiful ceramic vessels as souvenirs from shops in Shiraz.

Khatamkari (Inlaid Artwork):

Khatamkari (Inlaid Artwork) is a traditional art form of Persia where artisans create intricate geometric patterns by inlaying wood, bone, and metal onto various surfaces. It is a meticulous and time-consuming craft that has been practiced in Iran for centuries, reaching its peak during the Safavid period (1501-1736).

The word “khatam” translates to “marquetry” or “inlay” in Persian. The process of creating Khatamkari involves several steps:

1. Preparing the materials: Wood from various trees like ebony, teak, ziziphus, orange, and rose is dyed in different colors. Thin strips of bone (camel bone is commonly used) and metal wires (brass, aluminum, and silver) are also prepared.

2. Creating the “Veneers”: The dyed wood strips, bone, and metal wires are glued together in specific geometric patterns, often resembling stars or flowers. These are then pressed together under high pressure and cut into thin slices called “veneers.”

3. Assembling the design: The veneers are then meticulously arranged on the desired surface (wood, metal, or even bone) to create the final design. This can be a floral motif, geometric patterns, or even calligraphic inscriptions.

4. Finishing: Once the design is complete, the surface is polished and coated with a sealant to protect the inlaid work and enhance its beauty.

Final Words

Many travelers annually visit Shiraz, the cultural and artistic capital of Iran, to explore the land of Hafez and Saadi, two of Iran’s great poets and luminaries. They aim to feel the fragrance of Shiraz’s orange blossom and witness the ancient civilization of the world up close. Hotels with top-notch amenities and first-class services are available to ensure a peaceful and memorable stay in this historic and beautiful city.

One of the concerns for every traveler is buying beautiful souvenirs and mementos, and a comprehensive introduction to the best souvenirs of Shiraz with images can aid you in choosing the finest gifts. Among the best Shirazi souvenirs are local delicacies such as Faludeh, Masghati, and Kak. Authentic herbal extracts with unparalleled medicinal properties are also among the most popular Shirazi souvenirs. The exquisite handicrafts of Shiraz are the best option for a lasting and visually appealing gift.