Negarestan Garden and Muesum, University of Tehran

Negarestan Garden and Museum

Negarestan Garden is one of the significant historical and cultural sites of Tehran. Being located in the city center, the garden is a must-see place for tourists, who find interest in the history of Iran cultural development. The history of the garden interacts with the history of University of Tehran and famous Iranian artist Kamal-ol Molk. After all, it is a beautiful place to have a walk and get familiar with Iranian architecture of 19th-20th century.

One of the halls hosts museum, devoted to the famous Iranian artist Mohammad Qaffari. Known as Kamal-ol Molk, he started the school of fine arts on the territory of the garden. Consequently, the exposition includes his works and works of two generations of his students.

History of Negarestan Garden

The garden was built in 1802 by order of Fath-Ali Shah, the second Shah of Iran, as a summer residence. There were lots of painting with kings’ portraits and signatures of famous painters: Johnny Mirza, Mirza Baba, and Abdullah Khan. Hence the name “Negarestan”, which in Farsi language means “a place, full of pictures”. The inauguration ceremony of the third Shah of Iran, Mohammad Qajar, happened in Negarestan Garden in 1834. The “Peacock” throne, which participated in the ceremony, is now available in the National Jewelry Museum. During the reign of Mozaffar ad-Din the garden hosted agriculture school, school of fine arts and religious school. In 1928 an educational center for teachers started in one of the garden buildings. In 1936 one of the halls became a library. When  University of Tehran started its work in 1934, some of the faculties held courses on the territory of Negarestan Garden. After all, in 1958 the garden became property of Social and Cooperation Research Institute of Iran. Some of the buildings were destroyed after the fall of Qajar Dynasty in 1925, and the garden became much smaller. There were plans on destroying the garden in 1971 and 1986 since the huge part of it hadn’t survived through the years. The collective of the University of Tehran announced the rest of the garden as a museum of the university glory and history, which helped to preserve the site till our days.

Location of Negarestan Garden

Negarestan Garden is located in the central part of Tehran, in 5 minutes walking from Baharestan metro station of dark blue metro line. There are several museums around Negarestan Garden, so you can plan your route based on your preferences. Under Glass Painting Museum, Masoudieh Palace, National Jewelry Museum are located within walking distance. Also if you go 2 stations on the south to Imam Khomeini station, you will find yourself among lots of touristic sites: National Museum of Iran, Ebrat Museum, City Park, Bagh-e Melli Garden, Golestan Palace and Grand Bazaar.

When to visit Negarestan Garden            

Negarestan Garden is opened for visitors every day except Mondays, from 9.00 till 18.00.  This is one of the important cultural attractions of Tehran, filled with the spirit of culture and education, and just a beautiful place to spend some time. The decoration of the halls consists of mirrors, golden works, and chandeliers. The garden itself is full of open pavilions, canals, and pools, trees and flowers. In addition, in the corner of the garden, you will find an open-air cafe, where you can have a refreshing drink after a rich excursion.  Courtesy of APOCHI