Mohtasham Garden

Mohtasham Garden, also known as Shahr Park (City Park) of Rasht, is one of the oldest parks in the city of Rasht in Gilan Province. Its history goes back to the reign of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. This historic garden was created through the efforts of Akbar Khan Beyglarbeygi, a landowner and wealthy figure of the Naseri era, and the planting of its trees, the laying out of its avenues and the construction of its summer mansion were all carried out under his supervision. After Akbar Khan's death, the garden passed to his daughter, and following her marriage to Sadeq Khan Akbar Mohtasham al-Molk, the name Mohtasham Garden became permanently attached to the complex. During the Pahlavi era, the garden was seized by the government in lieu of unpaid tax debts, and on 22 Shahrivar 1339 it was opened to the public as a park. Today, besides its historical value and lush greenery, Mohtasham Garden also has cultural importance because it is the resting place of Houshang Ebtehaj, the renowned Iranian poet, who was laid to rest in this garden on 5 Shahrivar 1401.

One of the most distinctive sights of Mohtasham Garden is the Kolah-Farangi Mansion, which was formerly used as the summer residence of Akbar Khan and the governors who came after him. From the outside the mansion appears to have three floors, but it actually has four, and its upper octagonal room, with windows facing the garden, is one of the building's distinguishing features. The Kolah-Farangi Mansion was registered on Iran's National Heritage list on 26 Aban 1375 under number 1764. Ancient trees, walking paths, a pond and fountains, benches and pleasant spots to rest are among the park's other attractions. Mohtasham Garden also offers facilities such as a children's playground, public exercise equipment, a sports field, a table tennis table, a climbing wall, gazebos and restrooms, making it a good place for a family outing, exercise and leisure time. Alongside these attractions, the tomb of Houshang Ebtehaj is also a worthwhile destination for lovers of poetry and Persian literature.

Mohtasham Garden is located in the south of Rasht, on Hafez Street, next to the Goharrud River, and can be reached by private car or public transport. The garden is worth visiting in every season of the year: spring, with budding trees and fresh greenery; summer, with the shade of its ancient trees; and autumn, with its yellow and orange leaves, each show a different side of it. Winter, too, has its own special atmosphere. During your visit, you can set aside time to stroll along the garden's paths, see the Kolah-Farangi Mansion and visit the tomb of Houshang Ebtehaj. Given the historical importance and natural setting of this complex, please avoid damaging the trees and plants, leaving litter and making noise. Also, because of reports of urban and hospital pollution in the Goharrud River, it is not a suitable place for swimming or recreational use of the water.