The Fin Garden in Kashan, the most famous Iranian garden registered on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
The Fin Garden of Kashan is one of the finest examples of Persian gardens and a remarkable representation of Iranian architectural artistry in garden design. It has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. While many gardens across Iran boast beautiful architecture and design, the Fin Garden of Kashan stands out as one of the best and enjoys worldwide fame. If you’re curious about this stunning garden and wish to learn more about it, don’t miss the continuation of this article from Gulf City Pedia Tourism Magazine. In the following, we aim to introduce the Fin Garden of Kashan, the most famous Persian garden registered with UNESCO.
The Naming of Fin Garden of Kashan
The original name of this garden was “Bagh-e Shah” (King’s Garden), given due to its large size. However, over time, the name changed to “Fin Garden of Kashan.” The term “Fin” refers to the traditional hats worn by people in the region at that time, and gradually, the area became known by this name. As a result, the large garden built there came to be called “Fin Garden of Kashan.”
Architecture of Fin Garden of Kashan
One of the reasons for the fame of Fin Garden of Kashan is the use of Safavid-era architectural elements in the garden and its high degree of symmetry. In the past, it was considered one of the most symmetrical gardens in Iran, which contributed to its fame. However, after the Safavid period, with numerous destructions and restorations, much of this symmetry was lost. According to official sources, the beautiful design of the garden as seen today was created by Ghiyas al-Din Jamshid Kashani. However, many sources and individuals believe that the design was actually the work of Sheikh Baha’i.
One of the most significant elements that enhances the beauty of this garden and brings it to life is the presence of water features and fountains. The fountains used in the garden not only cool the air but also add considerable beauty to it. These fountains were created using ceramic pipes. These pipes are connected at one end to the ponds and are sealed at the other. When water flows through the pipes, it reaches the sealed end and then bursts out through small openings along the pipe. This mechanism creates the fountains seen in the garden’s water features.
Trees of Fin Garden of Kashan
In addition to water, another key element that gives Fin Garden of Kashan its unique beauty and refreshing atmosphere is the trees within the garden. Among the 580 trees in the garden, there are numerous cypress and plane trees, along with several pine trees. These trees are very old and have grown so large that they cast a vast shadow over the entire garden. The shade of these trees, combined with the water features inside the garden, helps cool the area and adds to its freshness. Unfortunately, many of the trees in Fin Garden are either dead or in the process of dying. The lack of proper care for these trees, along with their age, has led to the death of over 100 trees.
Ponds of Fin Garden of Kashan
The most famous and significant pond in Fin Garden of Kashan is the “Jush Pool.” This pond is renowned for several reasons, one of which is the beautiful tile work on its floor. The floor of this pond features golden-hued tiles crafted by the Kashani family and the artist Abi Taher. Unfortunately, during the early years of Reza Shah’s reign, the tiles were stolen, and no one has been able to replace them since.
Another reason for the fame of the Jush Pool is its function. The pond contains 160 holes that are responsible for suction and water drainage. Some of these holes shoot water out with pressure, creating fountains. Excess water is drained through the next hole, preventing the pond from overflowing.
Another well-known pond in Fin Garden is the “12-Fountain Pool,” which operates using the ceramic piping system mentioned earlier. This pool can push water vertically from its holes without the need for external forces, creating a beautiful fountain.
Another important pond is the “Camel Neck Pool,” which has a shape resembling the English letter S. This pool also features extraordinary architecture in creating fountains. The Camel Neck Pool is famous because people believe that if they throw a coin into it, their wishes will be granted.
Different Sections of Fin Garden of Kashan
Fin Garden of Kashan contains several sections and structures, not all of which were added during the Safavid era. Over the years and under different dynasties, more buildings were constructed. Below are some of the most important buildings and sections in the garden:
Safavid Pavilion
One of the most important structures added to the garden during the Safavid era is the Safavid Pavilion. This pavilion is a palace built in the center of the garden, offering views of all the angles of the garden. In the middle of the pavilion is a small pond, and it was originally built for the Safavid kings’ celebrations and gatherings. It is one of the best examples of symmetry preservation in Safavid architecture.
Entrance Building
As the name suggests, the Entrance Building was constructed at the front of the garden to serve as a hall connecting the exterior of the garden to its interior. The building contains rooms with balconies overlooking the entire garden. This structure, also built during the Safavid era, plays a significant role in the design of the garden.
Shah’s Room
The Shah’s Room in Fin Garden of Kashan was built under the order of Mohammad Shah Qajar. Various gatherings and parties were held in this room. A main door and several side doors were constructed for the room, allowing servants to enter through the side doors while the main door was reserved for the Shah and dignitaries.
Qajar Pavilion
The Qajar Pavilion, also known as the “Fath Ali Shah Camel Neck Pavilion,” was built during the reign of Fath Ali Shah. This pavilion was one of the structures that disrupted the symmetry of Fin Garden. The ceiling of the pavilion still contains remnants of Qajar-era paintings and mirror work, which, due to neglect, are in a state of deterioration.
Women’s Spring
The Women’s Spring, now converted into a teahouse, was originally the place where water was divided for the main ponds of the garden. The main water source entered here and was then distributed to three parts, leading to various ponds in the garden.
Fin Bathhouse
Perhaps the most famous and significant part of Fin Garden of Kashan are its bathhouses, which gained notoriety due to the assassination of Amir Kabir in one of the baths. In reality, Fin Garden had two bathhouses, neither of which were named “Fin Bath.” The larger bathhouse, known as the Royal Bath, included areas such as the Shah’s Room, bloodletting rooms, the hot pool, the cold pool, and the tepid pool. The smaller bathhouse, which shares a similar structure with the Royal Bath, was built on a smaller scale. It was in this smaller bathhouse that Amir Kabir was tragically murdered.
Where is the Fin Garden in Kashan?
The Fin Garden is located at the end of Amir Kabir Street in Kashan, easily accessible by public transport or private car. If you wish to stay near the garden, you can opt for hotels such as Hotel Baharestan, Hotel Negarestan, Hotel Amir Kabir, and Hotel Iranians. Many other attractions in Kashan, such as the National Museum of Kashan, the Jameh Mosque, the Amir Kabir Museum, the Borujerdi House, the Traditional Bazaar of Kashan, and the Tabatabai House, are also located nearby, so you can visit them as well.
Address of Fin Garden:
Esfahan Province, Central District of Kashan City, Small Fink Village from Fink Village, Amir Kabir Street
Best Time to Visit the Fin Garden
The best seasons to visit the Fin Garden are spring and summer. During these seasons, the plants and trees surrounding the garden are lush, and you can enjoy the beautiful nature. However, even in the colder seasons when the garden is covered with snow, visiting and having a cup of tea at its teahouse is a delightful experience. The garden is open to the public every day, except for official holidays. During official holidays and weekends, the Fin Garden can get crowded, so if you prefer less crowded visits, it is recommended to go on weekdays.
Working Hours:
First half of the year: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Second half of the year: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entrance Fees:
5,000 IRR for Iranian visitors
50,000 IRR for foreign visitors
The History of Fin Garden of Kashan
Like many other stunning structures and architectural masterpieces remaining in Iran today, the Fin Garden of Kashan was constructed during the Safavid era. However, the original foundation of this garden dates back to the Buyid dynasty and was destroyed in a massive earthquake. During the reign of Shah Abbas I of the Safavid dynasty, the order to rebuild the garden was issued, and its current architecture was implemented over the remnants of the previous structure. By the end of the Safavid rule, the garden suffered significant damage due to attacks by the Afghans on various parts of Iran and repeated earthquakes.
During the era of Nader Shah Afshar, the Afghan attacks were subdued, and victory was achieved in the war. However, by that time, the Fin Garden had been severely damaged and remained unrestored. It wasn’t until the Zand dynasty, under the orders of Karim Khan Zand, that restoration efforts began. Additional sections, such as Karim Khan’s private retreat, were added to the garden.
Many historical events have occurred in the Fin Garden, with one of the most famous and significant being the assassination of Amir Kabir in the Fin Bathhouse.
The origins of the Fin Garden have been the subject of much debate. Some attribute its initial creation to the time of Ardashir I, the founder of the Sasanian Empire. However, the first mention of a garden in this area in historical sources appears during the reign of Ya’qub ibn al-Layth al-Saffar, the founder of the Saffarid dynasty, in connection with Arab armies crossing the central deserts of Iran. This source mentions a spring and a garden in a desert region.
Other experts, based on historical records, attribute the Fin Garden’s origins to the Buyid dynasty, while some believe its development and expansion occurred during the Ilkhanate period. Yaqut al-Hamawi, a renowned geographer and historian of the 7th century AH, also mentioned the leisure activities of Kashan residents around the gardens of Fin.
The History of Fin Garden in Kashan | From the Time of Ardshir Babakan to the Present
There is much debate about the age of Fin Garden. Some attribute its early origins to the time of Ardshir Babakan, the founder of the Sassanian dynasty. However, historical sources first mention a garden in this region during the time of Ya’qub Layth Saffari, the founder of the Saffari dynasty, who, along with his Arab army, passed through the central deserts of Iran. This source refers to a spring and garden in a desert area. Other experts, based on historical sources, date the garden’s origins to the Buyid dynasty (1). Some also link the garden’s existence and development to the Ilkhanid period. Yaqut al-Hamawi, a famous 7th-century geographer and historian, also mentions people from Kashan strolling around the Fin gardens.
1- The Buyids (310 to 433 AH) were an Islamic dynasty that ruled parts of central, western, and southern Iran and Iraq.
Fin Garden in the Past Fin Garden in the Safavid Era
In 951 AH, during the late reign of Shah Tahmasp, the second Safavid king, a massive earthquake struck, causing serious damage to the garden. The remnants of this earthquake can be found several hundred meters away from the present-day Fin Garden, known as the Old Garden. After Shah Tahmasp’s death, two members of the Safavid family, Shah Ismail II and Mohammad Khodabandeh (father of Shah Abbas), ascended to the throne, but their weak reign led to the Turkman occupation of Kashan for several years, causing extensive destruction. Shah Abbas I, the most famous and fifth Safavid king, after eliminating the Turkman threat, issued orders to rebuild Kashan, promote local industries, and improve the overall situation. Aqa Khazr Nehawandi, the ruler of Kashan, was tasked with carrying out these orders.
During this period, the present-day Fin Garden was established and became known as the New Fin Garden. For this new garden, a well-lit plot of land measuring 157 meters in length (east to west) and 142 meters in width (north to south) was chosen and enclosed. In each corner of the land, tall round towers were built, and a wide street and square were created between the old and new gardens, intended for polo games, qapagh (2) throwing, and other competitions. There is no consensus on who designed the garden. The Cultural Heritage organization attributes the design to Ghiath al-Din Jamshid Kashani, a prominent mathematician, while academic sources and some experts attribute the design to Sheikh Baha’i, a famous Iranian historian and astronomer. To prevent flooding, Shah Abbas constructed a solid dam made of stone and mortar about one kilometer south of the garden, which still stands today.
Hassan Naraqi, in his book Historical Monuments of Kashan and Natanz, mentions the construction of a palace in Fin Garden during Shah Abbas I’s reign, noting the construction of tall towers around it. After Shah Abbas I’s death, the construction and development of the new garden continued during the reigns of Shah Safi and Shah Abbas II, the sixth and seventh Safavid kings, reaching its peak glory. The upper floor of the Shatargalu (3) building was constructed during Shah Safi’s time using wood and iron to provide him with the best view of the surroundings from the highest point. Buildings like the entrance gate, the Safavid pavilion, and one of the baths, which we will discuss later, were built during this period. Shah Suleiman, the eighth Safavid king, built a platform (4) around the Fin spring, which is why the spring is now called the “Suleimani Spring.”
1- Qapagh was a tall wooden post erected in large city squares during the Safavid period, with a golden ball or a container filled with coins placed on it when the king was present. 2- Shatargalu is a traditional water structure designed to transfer water from one location to another, functioning similarly to modern inverted siphons. 3- Saffeh is an open platform that is typically located at the front of a building or courtyard and is elevated above the surrounding area.
Fin Garden in the Zand Era
From the late Safavid period through the Zand era, coinciding with the Afghan invasion and the military campaigns of Nader Shah Afshar, the garden fell into disrepair and was largely forgotten. Karim Khan Zand, the founder of the Zand dynasty, after several earthquakes that had damaged the buildings, instructed Abd al-Razzaq Khan, the governor of Kashan, to restore the garden and its structures. During these restorations, a new building was added to the garden, which became known as the Karamkhani Retreat.
Fin Garden in the Qajar Era
During the reign of Fath Ali Shah, the second Qajar king, due to his affection for the tranquility of the garden and the beauty of the Fin spring, significant additions were made to the garden. Nearly all the present-day buildings in the garden were constructed during his reign. Fath Ali Shah ordered Haji Hossein Khan Sadr Azam Isfahani, the head of the Kashan administration, to renovate and restore the garden and give it a regal appearance. He constructed a building called the Shatargalu Pavilion next to the Karamkhani Retreat and a small bath next to the Safavid bath. The renovations were completed in 1189 AH. The core structure of the Shatargalu built during Fath Ali Shah’s time still stands in the southeastern part of the garden and is known by this name. Other changes during this period included adding paintings to the Shatargalu building, constructing a large or royal bath, and the Nizam al-Dawlah Pavilion (harem). In 1256 AH, Mohammad Shah issued orders for the restoration and maintenance of the garden, and in 1258, the Shah’s sitting room and the water-springing pool (1) in front of it were built. Other notable achievements during the Qajar period include the wall cladding and beautification of the building surroundings and the construction of the windcatcher building (the current library).
1- A pool from which water springs outward.
From the Pahlavi Era to the Present
After the Qajar period, parts of the garden were completely destroyed. However, with its registration as a national monument in 1935, during the Pahlavi period, the central pool was first restored, and in 1957, the construction of the National Museum of Kashan was initiated on the ruins of the Nizam al-Dawlah Retreat. Additional buildings were constructed between the library and baths, and other architectural elements, including pavilions (2), were renovated in 1978. After the revolution, the garden received little attention until 2008, when further work was carried out. Then, after the UNESCO World Heritage registration file was submitted in 2010, UNESCO requested changes to the paving and sidewalks of the garden. Following these modifications, Fin Garden was added to the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites as one of the 9 Iranian gardens.
1- Koushk or Kolah Farangi is a type of pavilion typically located in open spaces among trees, with open or partially open sides.
The Murder of Amir Kabir in the Fin Bathhouse | A Stain of Infamy on the Garden’s Reputation
Mirza Mohammad Taqi Khan Farahani (Amir Kabir), one of Nasser al-Din Shah’s prime ministers during the Qajar period, made significant contributions to the country, including founding Dar al-Fonun, sending students abroad, organizing the military, and other reforms. One of his actions was determining salaries for courtiers, which displeased those who had previously had easy access to the treasury. This led to conspiracies against him, involving Mahd-e-Olya, the Shah’s mother, and Haji Ali Khan Maraghei, the head of the harem. Despite the Shah’s affection for Amir Kabir, the combination of the Shah’s incompetence and the conspiracies led to Amir’s dismissal and exile to Kashan. Kashan was chosen for his exile because it was a remote, desert city, and its proximity to the capital allowed the courtiers to keep him under control.
Amir Kabir, along with his wife, lived in the garden for 40 days until Nasser al-Din Shah regretted his decision and sent a gift to signal his forgiveness. Once the courtiers learned of this, they took advantage of the Shah’s drunkenness to get him to sign Amir’s death warrant. They made their way to Kashan, passing through the marshes of Qom, and when they arrived, they learned that Amir was in the bathhouse preparing to wear the royal gift. Since the bathhouse servants had access to the street, the assassins entered through the street, locked the bathhouse door, and ensured no one could intervene. Haji Ali Akbar Khan Chaparchi, the messenger between Shiraz and Kashan, realized what was happening and tried to warn Amir’s wife, but they bound him with rope to stop him.
When Amir Kabir saw the assassins and heard the order, he couldn’t believe that Nasser al-Din Shah had given such an order. He asked to see the order with his own eyes. After reading the order, he said: “I thought Iran needed a capable prime minister, but now I realize it needs a capable king.”
He then made three requests: to write a brief will, to see his wife and children one last time, and to pray two rakats of prayer. The assassins refused all of these requests.
Conclusion
In this article, we introduced one of the most famous and significant attractions of Kashan, which is listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Although the original construction of the Fin Garden dates back to the Buyid period, most of the buildings and the design of the garden as seen today are from the Safavid, Zand, and Qajar periods. Many historical events have taken place in this garden, the most significant being the murder of Amir Kabir in the Fin Bath.
After visiting the Fin Garden, you can explore other nearby attractions mentioned in this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Fin Garden in Kashan?
The Fin Garden is located in Esfahan Province, Kashan, on Amir Kabir Street.
What is the best season to visit the Fin Garden?
The best seasons to visit the Fin Garden are spring and summer, when the garden’s nature is fresh and lush.
Which period does the Fin Garden belong to?
The Fin Garden originally belongs to the Buyid period, but after being damaged by an earthquake, most of the architecture and design we see today were created by artists during the Safavid era.
