Ali Minaret

The Ali Minaret is one of the most valuable and distinctive historic minarets in Iran. It stands in Isfahan, in Imam Ali Square, opposite the Mausoleum of Harun-e Velayat and close to the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan. Dating from the first half of the 6th century AH, during the Seljuk era, it is among the oldest surviving structures from that period. The minaret originally stood beside the Sultan Sanjar Mosque. After the mosque was rebuilt in the Safavid period, it became part of the Ali Mosque, and it has been known as the "Ali Minaret" ever since. This valuable monument was added to the National Heritage List of Iran on 15 Dey 1310 under registration number 96, and today it is regarded as one of the most important historic attractions of Isfahan.

The Ali Minaret is considered a masterpiece of Iranian architecture and brickwork, and is renowned for its precisely balanced proportions, structural strength and eye-catching decoration. In the past the minaret was more than 50 metres tall, but after its upper section collapsed, its height is now about 47.85 metres. The base is about 6 metres in diameter, and inside, a spiral staircase of 164 steps winds around a central column and continues to the upper levels. The façade is decorated with skilful brickwork and five fine inscription bands in Kufic and banna'i script, which display Quranic verses and religious phrases against a background of brick, plaster and turquoise tilework. These features make the Ali Minaret one of the finest examples of Seljuk architectural art in Iran.

The Ali Minaret is easy to reach via Imam Ali Square, Haruniyeh Street and the historic quarter of Isfahan. It lies a short distance from the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan and the Mausoleum of Harun-e Velayat, so a visit to all three historic sites can easily be included in a single sightseeing itinerary. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when Isfahan's weather is very pleasant for exploring the historic district. While visiting this valuable monument, practising responsible tourism, such as not touching or damaging the brickwork and historic inscriptions, and keeping the site clean and peaceful, will play an important part in protecting this precious heritage.