Home » Latest Travel News of Iran » Isfahan, Iran Unveils Film Tourism Map: Discover Iconic Movie Locations and Cultural Landmarks in the Heart of Iran
Published on
September 20, 2025
With the release of its first-ever tourism map devoted to filming locations, Isfahan, one of Iran’s most historically and culturally rich cities, has unveiled a fresh and creative way to discover its legacy. This map, which was unveiled during a special ceremony at the Isfahan House of Artists, connects the city’s architectural wonders to the world of film while also showcasing the city’s cultural significance. The project, which combines history, art, and film, was created by the tourism department of the Isfahan Municipality and invites both movie buffs and casual visitors to discover Isfahan’s hidden gems.
The Map: A Unique Guide to Film Tourism in Isfahan
The newly launched tourism map is a vibrant blend of Isfahan’s architectural beauty and its deep roots in Iranian cinema. For decades, Isfahan’s stunning Islamic architecture, lush gardens, and majestic squares have appeared in various films and TV series. These sites are now being highlighted in the map, offering a unique way to experience the city’s beauty while tracing the footsteps of actors and filmmakers. Visitors can now walk the same paths that were featured in iconic Iranian films and television series.
One of the highlights of the new map is its integration of visual elements, including illustrations, film stills, and infographics. It is designed to be not just a practical guide but also a collectible, with many tourists likely to frame it as a keepsake. This physical map complements digital tools, offering a multi-layered approach to exploring Isfahan’s film tourism scene.
From Cinemas to Filming Locations: The Evolution of the Salam Cinema Program
The idea for this tourism map grew out of the “Salam Cinema” programme, a pioneering initiative that originally documented the history of cinemas in Isfahan, including both demolished and still-active movie theatres. However, the scope of the programme expanded over time, encompassing filming locations throughout the city. These filming sites, including the famous television series The Tales of Majid, showcase Isfahan’s cinematic contribution, preserving a visual record of the city’s role in Iranian cinema.
The Salam Cinema program’s expansion into filming locations was driven by a desire to document Isfahan’s film-related heritage and connect contemporary tourists with the city’s cinematic past. The programme emphasised not only the cinematic use of Isfahan’s architectural wonders but also its cultural significance. By creating this tourism map, the municipality aims to offer visitors a deeper understanding of how the city’s landmarks have contributed to Iranian filmmaking and storytelling.
A Physical Map with Digital Relevance
While the digital age has made maps and guides easily accessible online, there is still a strong appeal for physical maps, especially for those seeking a more immersive and tangible experience. The new printed map offers tourists an opportunity to explore Isfahan through a hands-on approach. It combines images of key film locations with descriptions and historical context, creating a richer experience for those who prefer a traditional method of navigation.
This physical map is not just for casual travellers but also for cinephiles who have a deep appreciation for the intersection of film and history. The inclusion of various film stills from the movies shot in Isfahan adds a cinematic touch, giving visitors a visual preview of the scenes shot in each location. As tourists move from one spot to another, they can reflect on how these places were used in the films, making each stop feel more meaningful.
An Invitation to Invest in Film Tourism
The Isfahan Municipality’s tourism department is encouraging private investors to develop tourism products centred around the city’s cinematic landmarks. The idea is to create experiences that allow tourists to engage with Isfahan’s film heritage, such as guided tours, film screenings, or themed events at significant filming locations. By providing the foundational materials, including the map, the municipality hopes to spark the development of products that complement the city’s growing film tourism sector.
This initiative also opens up new opportunities for businesses to tap into the expanding field of film tourism, where travellers are eager to explore locations made famous in their favourite films. Private investment can help to develop infrastructure and services that make these sites more accessible and enjoyable for tourists.
Looking Ahead: Future Editions of the Film Tourism Map
The first edition of the film tourism map has already created a buzz among tourists and film enthusiasts alike. But this is just the beginning. The Isfahan Municipality plans to release future editions that will further expand on the city’s cinematic heritage. Upcoming maps may cover additional neighbourhoods, landmarks, and lesser-known filming sites, providing a more comprehensive view of Isfahan’s film history.
In addition to film tourism, these future editions will likely focus on Isfahan’s broader cultural and architectural offerings, such as its Persian gardens, bustling bazaars, and vibrant street life. As the city continues to grow as a travel destination, the municipality’s ongoing efforts to document and share Isfahan’s history and culture through film tourism will attract more visitors who want to experience the city’s beauty in a new and exciting way.
Isfahan: A City of Timeless Beauty and Cultural Richness
Isfahan is famous not only for its role in Iranian cinema but also for its spectacular architectural wonders and historical significance. The city’s mosques, palaces, and squares, such as the UNESCO-listed Naqsh-e Jahan Square, continue to captivate visitors from around the world. This square, one of the largest in the world, is surrounded by stunning examples of Islamic architecture, including the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque and the Ali Qapu Palace.
Isfahan’s beauty is further enhanced by its lush Persian gardens, which can be found in places like Chehel Sotoun Palace and Hasht Behesht Palace. These gardens, characterised by their symmetrical layouts, water features, and vibrant flora, are a perfect example of Persian garden design, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Moreover, Isfahan’s rich cultural heritage is not confined to its historical landmarks. Visitors can stroll along tree-lined boulevards, visit bustling bazaars, and experience the city’s lively café culture, all while taking in the stunning backdrop of ancient buildings and lush green spaces.
Conclusion
An important step in Isfahan’s efforts to draw tourists with its cultural and cinematic legacy is the release of its film tourism map. Isfahan is solidifying its position as a premier travel destination by providing a distinctive, interactive guide that combines the world of film with the city’s stunning architecture. Isfahan promises a memorable trip through time and storytelling for those who want to investigate the nexus of culture, history, and film.
