Kharaqan Towers

The Timeless Majesty of Kharaqan Towers in Qazvin

• A Tale of Two Towers
• Historical Significance

Tucked away in the serene landscape of northern Iran, near the city of Qazvin, the Kharaqan Towers stand as silent sentinels of Seljuk-era architectural brilliance. These twin mausolea, built in 1067 and 1093 CE, are more than just historical relics — they're masterpieces of geometric design and spiritual heritage.

A Tale of Two Towers

Nestled in the quiet village of Hesar-e Valiyeasr in Qazvin Province, Iran, the Kharaqan Towers rise as proud embodiments of Seljuk-era mastery. These octagonal mausolea — each reaching 13 meters in height with four-meter-long sides — are architectural gems, seamlessly fusing mathematical precision with devotional artistry. Built entirely from brick, their exteriors are adorned with mesmerizing geometric motifs and Kufic Quranic inscriptions that speak to the spiritual depth and aesthetic sophistication of 11th-century Islamic design. Walking around the towers, one can’t help but marvel at the balance between symmetry and intricacy — an ancient dialogue between engineering and soul that still echoes through their timeless walls.

Historical Significance

Constructed as mausolea for esteemed Seljuk dignitaries Abu Saeed Bijar and Abu Mansour Iltay, the Kharaqan Towers offer a profound glimpse into the historical and artistic legacy of 11th-century Persia. The eastern tower, completed in 1067, showcases a rare double-domed design complemented by interior frescoes that hint at the sophistication of Seljuk visual culture. In contrast, the western tower — finished in 1093 — commands admiration for its breathtaking brickwork, widely hailed as one of the finest examples of Seljuk decorative art. Together, the towers stand not just as tombs but as enduring monuments to an era where architecture was deeply intertwined with reverence and artistic innovation.