Lotfalian Museum

The Lotfalian House Museum is one of the most valuable historical and cultural monuments in Malayer County, in Hamadan Province. It dates from the Qajar era and is now open to visitors as a historical and cultural museum. This traditional building stands on Shahid Mostafa Khomeini Street. It has two floors and a floor area of about 1,200 square metres. The main part of the house belonged to the late Mohsen Mosaddeqi (Mosaddeq al-Mamalek). It was built during the reign of Fath-Ali Shah Qajar, then purchased by Morteza Khan Lotfalian, who used it as his residence. On 19 Esfand 1380 (Solar Hijri), the Lotfalian House was inscribed on Iran's National Heritage list under a national registration number. After restoration and renovation, it began operating as an active museum.

Visitors can see several sections here, including the inner quarters (andaruni), the husseiniyeh, the stable, and the inner and outer courtyards, all of which showcase the beauty and authenticity of Qajar architecture. Besides its Qajar architectural features, such as brick vaults, wooden panelling, a pool room (hoz-khaneh), and a royal alcove (shahneshin) with colourful sash windows and doors (orosi), the Lotfalian House Museum has sections on the customs, history and culture of the people of Malayer. Objects from the historical period through to modern times are on display. The museum is also known as a centre for introducing local culture and traditions, and it gives visitors a valuable chance to learn about the lifestyle and architecture of the Qajar period. The ground-floor ceiling is covered with beautiful brick vaults, while the upper floor has a flat wooden roof.

To reach the Lotfalian House Museum, head from the centre of Malayer towards Shahid Mostafa Khomeini Street until you arrive at the historic building. It is accessible within the city and is open to tourists throughout the year. The best time to visit is spring or autumn, when the weather is pleasant and it is easier to explore the complex and its surroundings. While visiting, it is important to practise responsible nature tourism and to protect the historic site: avoid touching the structures unnecessarily, respect the building and its surroundings, and keep quiet and orderly in the exhibition spaces.