Known as Persia until 1935, Iran became an Islamic republic in 1979 after the ruling shah was forced into exile. The landscape is rugged, mountainous rim; high, central basin with deserts, mountains: small, discontinuous plains along both coasts. The highest point is Mount Damavand (5,671 meters). Iranian cuisine is superb. A wide range of influences from Central Asia, the Caucasuses, Russia and the Middle East have created a diverse, relatively healthy range of dishes that focus on fresh produce and aromatic herbs.

Tehran, the capital, is essentially a modern city, but the best of the old has been preserved. The Shahid Motahari Mosque has eight minarets, from which the city can be viewed. The Bazaar is one of the world's largest. More traditional towns, such as Rey, Varamin, Qazvin and Shemshak are within easy reach of Tehran. The town of Tabriz is known for its restored blue mosque built in 1465. The covered Qaisariyeh Bazaar dates back to the 15th century. The Golden Triangle is the name popularly given to the region enclosed by the ancient cities of Hamadan, Kermanshahan and Khorrambabad. For many centuries the Silk Road passed through the pleasant rolling countryside.