Asarkhaneh Shahi of Isfahan: a journey to the heart of Iran’s history and industry
Asarkhaneh Shahi, a relic of the Safavid era, is located in the heart of Naqsh Jahan Square, Isfahan. This historical complex used to be the place of oil extraction from oilseeds and today it is active as a museum.
History of Asarkhaneh Shahi:
Asarkhaneh Shahi was built in 1021 AH (1612 AD) by order of Shah Abbas I.
This collection has had various uses throughout its history. During the Safavid era, it was used to extract oil from oil seeds such as sesame, almond and pistachio.
During the Qajar era, Asarkhaneh Shahi was used as a soap factory.
In 1349 AH (1970 CE), Asarkhaneh Shahi was purchased and restored by the Cultural Heritage Organization.
Today, this complex is open to visitors as an active museum.
Architecture of Asarkhaneh Shahi:
Asarkhaneh Shahi has a main building with two floors.
On the first floor, there was an oil extraction place and on the second floor there was a storage place for oil seeds and extracted oil.
This complex has a central courtyard and several rooms and warehouses.
The architecture of Asarkhaneh Shahi is a combination of Iranian and Islamic style.
The decorations of this collection include tiling, wall painting, plastering and mirroring.
Different parts of Asarkhaneh Shahi:
Central courtyard: This courtyard is where visitors enter and exit.
Main Hall: This hall was the location of oil extraction machines.
King’s room: This room was the resting place of the king and officials.
Warehouses: These warehouses were used to store oilseeds and extracted oil.
