Geography
Where is Iran located?
Iran is located in Western Asia, bordered to the northwest by Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Nagorno-Karabakh; to the north by the Caspian Sea; to the northeast by Turkmenistan; to the east by Afghanistan and Pakistan; to the south by the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman; and to the west by Iraq and Turkey.
What is the highest mountain in Iran?
Mount Damavand, with a peak at 5,610 meters (18,438 feet).
What is the longest river flowing through Iran?
The Karun River, stretching over 725 kilometers (450 miles).
Which ancient city of Iran was once the capital of the Achaemenid Empire?
Persepolis, known for its impressive ruins and UNESCO World Heritage status.
What kind of climate does Iran mainly have?
Arid and semi-arid, with hot and dry summers and mild winters.
Which island in the Persian Gulf belongs to Iran?
Kish Island, a popular tourist destination known for its beaches and resorts.
History and Culture
What year did the Iranian Revolution take place?
1979, leading to the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Which ancient civilization flourished in Iran around 3,200 BC?
The Elamites, known for their advanced architecture and complex social structure.
What is the official language of Iran?
Persian (Farsi), a beautiful and ancient language with a rich literary tradition.
What is the main religion practiced in Iran?
Shia Islam, followed by approximately 90% of the population.
What is the traditional New Year's celebration in Iran called?
Nowruz, a spring festival celebrated with colorful decorations, family gatherings, and delicious food.
Arts and Achievements
Which famous Persian poet is known for his romantic epics and influence on literature?
Rumi, whose mystical poems are still widely read and appreciated today.
What is the iconic tilework pattern seen in traditional Iranian architecture and crafts called?
Mosaics, often featuring intricate floral and geometric designs.
What Persian sport is played on horseback and involves hitting a ball with a mallet?
Chogan, an ancient game considered the ancestor of modern polo.
Which Iranian filmmaker won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1997?
Abbas Kiarostami, renowned for his minimalist and poetic cinematic style.
What scientific field did Iranian mathematician Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi make significant contributions to?
Algebra, introducing concepts like algebraization and the systematic solution of quadratic equations.
Modern Iran
What is the capital city of Iran?
Tehran, a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural scene and historical landmarks.
What is the official currency of Iran?
The Iranian rial, though the toman is still commonly used in daily transactions.
What is a unique practice in Iranian social etiquette called?
Taarof, involving polite refusals and insistence before accepting offerings or invitations.
What is the main agricultural product of Iran?
Pistachios, with Iran being the world's largest producer and exporter of this delicious nut.
What is the national sport of Iran?
Wrestling, with a long and proud history, and freestyle wrestling being particularly popular.
Bonus Questions
What iconic landmark in Iran features a tomb and a beautiful garden complex?
The Mausoleum of Hafez, a revered poet, showcasing exquisite Persian gardens and architecture.
What ancient Persian empire was known for its vast territory and impressive administrative system?
The Achaemenid Empire, stretching from Egypt to India and laying the foundation for Persian civilization.
What traditional drink is enjoyed in Iran, often flavored with rosewater and spices?
Doogh, a refreshing yogurt drink perfect for the warm climate.
What Persian instrument is known for its melancholic sound and association with Sufi music?
The ney, a long end-blown flute, featured in many traditional and contemporary pieces.
What unique form of traditional Persian wrestling involves acrobatics and takedowns?
Varzeshi Pahlavani, characterized by agility, strength, and acrobatic maneuvers combined with throws and takedowns.
What is the name of the ancient city in southwestern Iran known for its ziggurats and Elamite civilization?
Chogha Zanbil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing impressive archaeological remains.
What Persian dish is a popular street food, consisting of deep-fried chickpea flour fritters topped with various condiments?
Falafel, enjoyed as a snack or light meal and often accompanied by pickled vegetables and yogurt.
What is the name of the traditional Persian calendar, based on solar calculations and different from the Gregorian calendar?
The Iranian calendar, also known as the Solar Hijri calendar, with its own months and leap years.
What is the Persian term for a place of learning and scholarship, often associated with mosques and religious institutions?
Madrasa, historically serving as centers for Islamic education and contributing to the development of knowledge and science.
What Persian festival celebrates the victory of good over evil and marks the spring equinox?
Sizdah Bedar, a joyous occasion involving picnics in nature, bonfires, and symbolic rituals welcoming spring.