Inside Iran: Oasis of Kashan

Nan Pang

The city was once known among merchants as a prosperous oasis along the Silk Road. Nowadays, Kashan is better known for its production of fine rose water. Located between Tehran and Esfahan, the city is often overlooked by most travelers, but the magnificent architecture of Timche-ye Amin od-Dowleh in the bazaar itself is worth a trip. It is also fascinating to get a flavor of affluent carpet merchants lifestyles through the opulent Tabātabāei House and Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse.