Tomb of Hafez

Tomb of Hafez – A Tribute to Persia’s Beloved Poet

The Tomb of Hafez, located in Shiraz, is a popular destination for those wishing to immerse themselves in Persian poetry and learn about the life and works of Hafez Shirazi, one of Iran's most revered poets. To Iranians, Hafez is regarded as a figure of profound significance - a "prophet" of love, art, and beauty. In modern Iran Hafez has become an essential element of any Persian holiday and ceremony, such as Nowruz and Yalda Night. His poetry, cherished by people of all ages, captivates its audience with wisdom and beauty. Every year on 22nd October, Iranians gather at his tomb in Shiraz to honour him on National Hafez Day.

Hafez was born in 1326. He believed that life was too short to be discouraged, people should enjoy their lives so that they would not regret anything in the future. The marble stone on Hafez's grave is inscribed with two sonnets from Hafez's book starting with:

Hafez's tombstone lies in a beautifully landscaped garden, a site that has been restored numerous times since it was first erected by the order of the ruler of Shiraz in 1452. Its current form was acquired in 1935. The architecture of this monument is truly breathtaking. The mausoleum has eight columns representing the century in which Hafez lived.

There is a common belief in Iran that Hafez's poems predict the future. At the entrance to the tomb visitors can purchase cards with translations of his poems in order to find out what may lie ahead.