Kolah Farangi Mansion, Rasht

The Kolah Farangi Mansion is one of the historic buildings of Rasht, in Gilan Province. It stands on the southern side of Mohtasham Garden (Rasht City Park), beside the Goharrud River. The mansion dates from the Qajar era and was added to Iran's National Heritage list in 1375 (Solar Hijri; 1996 CE) under registration number 1764. The garden and building were originally owned by a man named Akbar Khan Biglarbigi. After his death, the garden passed to his heirs and eventually to the Mohtasham al-Molk family, and from then on it became known as "Mohtasham Garden".

The mansion's architecture combines wood, brick and plaster. Although the building appears to have three floors from the outside, it actually has four. The first and second floors each have two rooms, which get plenty of light and ventilation from numerous windows. On the top floor is an octagonal room with windows on every side, offering a 360-degree view of the garden and its surroundings. Wooden verandas and railings run around the whole building and add to the beauty of its facade. Over the years, the mansion has served as a summer residence for officials, a local arts centre and even a restaurant.

To reach the Kolah Farangi Mansion, enter the city of Rasht and follow Hafez Street. Mohtasham Garden, also known as the City Park, lies along this route, and the mansion is on its southern side. The building is easy to reach from many parts of the city, and most visitors can get there by taxi or on foot. Because the mansion and Mohtasham Garden are within the city, you can visit in any season. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when Rasht's weather is milder and the garden is full of colour and freshness. To visit responsibly, please avoid putting pressure on the structure, touching delicate parts, or writing on or damaging the wood and decorations. Keep the site clean and stay on the designated paths.