Chehel Sotun Palace

Chehel Sotoun of Qazvin - A Safavid Jewel of Art, Architecture, and Reflection

• Introduction of the palace
• Architectural features and surroundings
• What to expect when visiting the palace

Introduction of the palace

Right in the heart of Qazvin, surrounded by gardens and echoes of royal history, stands the elegant Chehel Sotoun — a Safavid-era pavilion that once formed part of a grand palace complex. Built in the mid-16th century by Shah Tahmasp I, who briefly made Qazvin the capital of Persia, this building was originally known as the Kolah Farangi Mansion (meaning “European Hat Pavilion”) due to its distinctive octagonal shape and domed roof. Though smaller than its more famous namesake in Isfahan, Qazvin’s Chehel Sotoun is just as rich in charm. The name “Chehel Sotoun,” meaning “Forty Columns”, is more poetic than literal, evoking the grandeur of Persian architecture where reflections and symmetry play a key role.

Architectural Features

The Chehel Sotoun of Qazvin features an octagonal layout with two stories, covering approximately 500 square meters. It is surrounded by eight massive columns and eight corner piers, which help form a distinctive gallery on the upper level. Originally, the mansion was part of a larger Safavid palace complex, complete with underground tunnels designed for emergency escape routes.

One of its standout features is the orosi windows, showcasing colorful glass imported from Germany that artistically represents the four seasons. The structure also boasts a marble fountain and traces of its former lush garden.

What to expect when visiting the palace

Today, the pavilion houses the Qazvin Museum of Calligraphy, and stepping inside feels like entering a quiet sanctuary of art and history. The building itself is beautifully restored, with delicate stucco work, wooden ceilings, and a layout that invites you to wander slowly and take it all in. The museum showcases exquisite examples of Persian calligraphy — some centuries old — highlighting Qazvin’s long-standing reputation as a center of art and culture. Whether you’re an architecture lover, a history enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys peaceful, beautiful spaces, Chehel Sotoun is a must-see stop that captures the refined spirit of Qazvin’s past.