Hour 12:43 17 Jul 25

Niavaran Royal Palace-Museum

Located in the northeastern part of Niavaran Garden, the Niavaran Royal Palace occupies an area of approximately 9,000 square meters with a height of 14 meters, distributed over two and a half floors.
Construction of the palace began in 1958, with a design inspired by traditional Iranian architecture by Mohsen Foroughi. The supervising consultants were Abdolaziz Farmanfarmaian and Associates, and the construction was carried out by MOP Company.
Originally intended as a venue for royal receptions and to host distinguished guests, the palace's purpose changed during construction, eventually becoming the primary residence of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran, and his family. Despite several delays, the building was completed in 1967 and remained the royal family’s main residence until they departed from Iran.
The palace’s quadrangular structure and its interior layout are rooted in Iranian architectural traditions, combined with modern engineering techniques. Decorative elements reflect a blend of pre-Islamic and post-Islamic Iranian art. The stucco work was executed by Master Abdollahi, mirror work by Master Ali Asghar, and tilework on the exterior façade by Master Ebrahim Kazempour and Ilya.

One of the most unique features of the palace is its retractable aluminium roof, operated by an electromechanical system, allowing natural light to illuminate the central hall. The fusion of modern and classical Iranian architecture, particularly elements inspired by Achaemenid design, can be seen in the use of chiselled stones reminiscent of Pasargad and Persepolis, the layout of the portico, and the combination of tilework, mirror work, and intricate stucco inside the palace.
The interior decoration features a refined mix of modern and classical styles. Furniture was designed and produced by the French company Mercier and the American company Knoll. Elegant wall fabrics further enhance the aesthetic atmosphere of the rooms.
The ground floor comprises a large central hall, surrounded by reception rooms, a dining room, a cinema, and a sitting area. The second floor includes the bedrooms of Mohammad Reza and Farah Pahlavi, Farah’s dressing and makeup rooms, and bedrooms for their children and attendants. The mezzanine level contains Farah Pahlavi’s private office and the room of their youngest daughter, Leila.
The palace interior is enriched with a valuable collection of artworks, including paintings by Iranian and international artists, tapestries, exquisite Persian carpets, and fine porcelain and crystalware from prestigious manufacturers such as Sèvres (France) and Rosenthal (Germany).
Following the Islamic Revolution, the palace was opened to the public for the first time as a museum in 1986, offering a unique glimpse into the modern history, culture, and art of Iran.

In January 2004, the palace was closed for a comprehensive six-year restoration project. This included repainting, restoration of stucco and mirror work, installation of a new HVAC system, electrical upgrades, roof and insulation repair, reactivation of the retractable roof and elevator, flooring renovations, and the installation of a modern electronic surveillance system (CCTV). Furniture, curtains, and fabric wall coverings were meticulously restored, and many historical objects underwent conservation and expert research-based treatment.
The palace was reopened in March 2010, once again welcoming visitors to experience the elegance and cultural richness of modern Iranian art heritage.