Arg-e Tabriz


This huge brick edifice off Imam Khomeini St is a chunky remnant of Tabriz’ early-14th-century citadel (known as ‘the Ark’). Criminals were once executed by being hurled from the top of the citadel walls. The Russians used it as a command post during their 1911 invasion. Unfortunately, it's being dwarfed by the even more humongous Imam Khomeini Mosalla being built next door and the whole area is presently closed off.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Imam Khomeini Mosalla

0.07 MILES

This stadium-sized mosalla (prayer hall) has been under construction forever and the sporadic works have been blamed for undermining the foundations of…

2. Anglican Church

0.17 MILES

Behind high gates, the curious Anglican Church has a tower of four diminishing cylinders.

3. Museum of Measurement

0.31 MILES

The measurement museum is hidden down a small, walled alley in a beautifully restored 160-year-old Qajar mansion. Skip it if you're not into rococo German…

5. Sarkis Church

0.35 MILES

The relatively central Sarkis Church serves the Armenian community. It’s hidden in a basketball court behind high white gates.

6. Municipal Hall

0.38 MILES

The iconic 1930s German-designed Municipal Hall, still the bastion of city power, dominates Sa'at Sq. There's a museum in the basement with various city…

7. Shahriyar House Museum

0.4 MILES

Enter a time warp to late-'70s Tabriz in the preserved house of much-loved poet Ostad Shahriyar (1906–88). Surrounded by his everyday belongings, you…

8. St Mary's Church

0.45 MILES

Dating from the 12th century, St Mary’s is a still-functioning Armenian church that was mentioned by Marco Polo. It was once the seat of the regional…