With a long-standing and proud civilization, Persian culture is among
the richest in the world. Two and a half millennia of inspiring
literature, thousands of poets and writers, magnificent and impressive
architecture, live customs dating back to Zoroastrians over 3000 years
ago, and other unique characteristics of the nation are rivaled by only a
few countries.
Throughout the history, this grand treasure of Persia was gradually
transferred to eastern and western nations. Iran's significant
contribution into the world civilization in many respects is
indispensable. Many ceremonies of the ancient Persians are the basis of
western celebrations.
Among the ceremonies still being held are Norouz, Charshanbeh Suri,
Sizdah Bedar, Yalda Night and Haft Sin. Sitting around Haft Sin and
reciting Hafez, visiting family and friends during Norouz celebration,
night of Charshanbeh Suri and jumping over the bonfire in the hope of
getting rid of all illnesses and misfortunes, spending Sizdah Bedar, the
13th day of the New Year, in nature, are old interesting traditions
coming from the Achaemenid Empire.
Another eminent feature of Persian culture is art. In fact culture and
art are two closely interwoven concepts forming the soul of human
civilizations. Persian exquisite carpets, subtle soulful classic music,
outstanding tile work of unique blue mosques, old influential
architectural style and countless brilliant literary works are famous in
the world.
Persian or Farsi, is one of the world's oldest languages still in use
today, and is known to have one of the most powerful literary traditions
and potentials. Persian poetry with masterpieces of Saadi, Hafiz, Rumi
and Omar Khayyam is well known around the world.
As all Persians are quick to point out, Farsi is not related to Arabic, it is a member of the Indo-European family of languages.
One more art intertwined with Persian culture, worth mentioning, is the
art of cooking. Persian foods, accompanied by herbs and spices are
product of the creativity, skill and patience of many generations of
cooks.