Mollabashi House

Mollabashi House, also known as Mo'tamedi House, is one of the most distinctive historic buildings in Isfahan, located in the old quarter of Pa-Qaleh. This valuable house is registered on Iran's National Heritage List under number 5883 and is an outstanding example of Iranian residential architecture from three periods: the Safavid, Zand and Qajar eras. Its original owner was the Mollabashi, an astronomer and a trusted aide of Naser al-Din Shah. After arriving in Isfahan and carrying out political and social missions, he chose this house as his residence and as the place where he attended to the affairs of the people.

Architecturally, Mollabashi House is one of the most complete examples of a traditional Iranian house, and the combination of three historical styles is clearly visible in it. Parts of the building date to the Safavid period, the winter living quarters and some of the five-door rooms belong to the Zand period, and later additions such as the shahneshin (the raised principal reception alcove) and the nine-door rooms were added during the Qajar era. The interior decoration includes colored stained glass, delicate mirror work, artistic stucco carvings and wall paintings, offering a feast for the eyes in Iranian architectural art. Over time the house went through many changes and restorations, and in the early 2000s (the 1380s in the Solar Hijri calendar) it was thoroughly rebuilt by its new owner to prevent its complete destruction. After the restoration, various parts of the building, including the outer courtyard, the andaruni (inner quarters), the hoz-khaneh (pool room) and the shahneshin, were revived, and the house was opened to the public. Today Mollabashi House is one of Isfahan's important cultural and tourist attractions; besides showcasing historic architecture, it also tells the story of the lifestyle of the aristocrats and elites of past eras.

In terms of access, Mollabashi House is in central Isfahan on West Hasht Behesht Street in the Pa-Qaleh neighborhood, and it is easy to reach via the city's main streets. Its proximity to other historic houses and to the old fabric of the city means visitors can see several historic sites on a single walking route. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when Isfahan's weather is more suitable for strolling through the historic district. Responsible tourism is essential: keep quiet, avoid damaging the building's decorations and respect the historic atmosphere.