Ansari House

Ansari House is one of the most valuable historic buildings in the city of Urmia, located in Imam Hussein Square (commonly known as Gol-Usti Square). The house was built during the Qajar period, between 1330 and 1334 (Solar Hijri), and is considered a prominent example of the residential architecture of that era. The original owner of the building was Babak Jafari. After his death, the house passed to his daughter Badr al-Moluk and her husband, Seyfollah Khan Ansari, and from then until today it has been known as "Ansari House." Because of its historical and architectural value, the building is registered on Iran's National Heritage List and is regarded as a notable cultural landmark in West Azerbaijan Province.

Architecturally, Ansari House is a two-story building with a rectangular plan on its northern side, with a large courtyard at its center. The materials used in its construction include stone, brick, adobe, rammed earth, a wooden roof, gypsum plaster and wooden boards, and the roof is insulated with straw-clay (kahgel). Its facade is decorated with framed panels of turquoise glazed brick and haft-rangi tilework (seven-color tiles), which give the building an attractive appearance. During the restoration, efforts were made to dedicate parts of the building to cultural activities; since 1383 (Solar Hijri) there has also been talk of turning the grounds into a Persian garden. One of the house's notable features is that it served as the first girls' school in Urmia; part of the house was allocated to the school, and many women of old Urmia studied there.

To get there, visitors can head to Imam Hussein Square (Gol-Usti) on Madani 2 Street, Ansari Alley. The best time to visit is usually spring and autumn, when the weather is milder and more pleasant. Given the building's current condition, responsible visiting is very important: protecting the structure, avoiding damage to the facade and tiles, and keeping the grounds clean are all key points. The present condition of Ansari House is somewhat concerning, and some sources have warned of its neglect and deterioration.