Meydan-e Mashq

Meydan-e Mashq (Mashq Square) is one of the most valuable historic sites in Tehran, located in the central part of the capital in Tehran Province. This historic complex lies around Imam Khomeini, Si-e Tir, Ferdowsi and Shahid Colonel Sakhaei streets, and its origins go back to the Qajar era and the reign of Fath-Ali Shah. Meydan-e Mashq was originally created for military training, combat drills and army parades, and gradually became one of the most important military and historic spaces in Tehran. During the reign of Reza Shah (the first Pahlavi era), the site was for a time known as Bagh-e Melli (the National Garden), and its original layout changed after numerous government and cultural buildings were constructed. On 12 Mehr 1377 (Solar Hijri), Meydan-e Mashq was registered on Iran's National Heritage List under number 2130, and today it is regarded as an important part of the capital's historic and architectural heritage.

One of the most distinctive features of Meydan-e Mashq is the variety of historic and architectural buildings within its grounds. The Sardar-e Bagh-e Melli (the gateway of the National Garden), the main entrance to the complex, is a well-known symbol of Tehran, with its tilework, historic motifs and a blend of Iranian and European architectural elements. Further along the route, the Cossack Brigade building (Qazzaq-khaneh), the historic Police Palace (Kakh-e Shahrbani), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building and the Communications Museum are among the buildings that attract those interested in history and architecture. The Malek National Library and Museum and the National Museum of Iran also stand within and around this historic complex, offering the chance to see historic artefacts, manuscripts and Iran's cultural heritage. The United Nations Pedestrian Street is a pleasant place to stroll among these buildings and admire their architectural details. In the past, Meydan-e Mashq also witnessed a range of historic and social events, and it holds stories of Tehran's military, urban and cultural transformations. Because some buildings house government offices, not all of them can be entered, and visitors can view their exteriors; museum visits are also subject to the opening hours and regulations of each institution.

To reach Meydan-e Mashq, you can enter the historic area from Imam Khomeini Street through the Bagh-e Melli gateway. The metro is a good option, especially Imam Khomeini Station on Lines 1 and 2; after leaving the station, you will need to walk part of the way. Hasan Abad Station is another way to reach the area. Since Meydan-e Mashq lies in the centre of the city within the traffic restriction zone, public transport is usually a better choice than a private car. Spring and autumn, with their milder weather, are good times for walking and visiting the historic buildings of this complex; even so, visits are possible in other seasons too. Before setting out, it is best for travellers to check the opening hours of the museums they plan to visit and any possible restrictions on entering the site. During your visit, respecting the boundaries of government buildings, avoiding damage to the buildings and historic decorations, not littering and following the complex's regulations will help protect this valuable heritage and keep it open to the public.