Tag: UNESCO Tentative Sites

Vali Asr Street: The Beating Heart of Tehran Stretching over 17 kilometers from the foothills of the Alborz Mountains to the heart of the Iranian capital, Vali Asr Street is the longest and most iconic avenue in Tehran. Lined with thousands of towering plane trees, it is not just a road—it is a cultural, historical, and social artery connecting the north and south of the city. Vali Asr Street is on the tentative lists of UNESCO  World Heritage Sites since 2019. A Walk Through Time Originally commissioned during the reign of Reza Shah Pahlavi in the early 20th century, Vali Asr Street was once called Pahlavi Street and later Mossadegh Street before adopting its current name after the Islamic Revolution. It has witnessed decades of transformation, from the royal era to the modern-day hustle and bustle of Tehran.   Avenue of Contrasts One of the most fascinating aspects of Vali Asr Street is the contrast between its northern and southern ends. The northern part, starting from Tajrish Square, is home to upscale boutiques, modern shopping malls, and cozy cafés where Tehran’s youth and intellectuals gather. As you move southward towards Rah Ahan Square, the street transitions into a more traditional and commercial atmosphere, bustling with street vendors, old cinemas, and historic buildings that reflect Tehran’s layered past.   A Green Corridor The avenue is famous for its lush canopy of plane trees, which were planted nearly a century ago. In spring and summer, they provide a refreshing shade, while in autumn, they create a mesmerizing golden tunnel. Winter, too, brings its charm, as snow dusts the branches and adds to the street’s cinematic appeal. Cultural and Historical Landmarks Vali Asr Street is home to several cultural and historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into Tehran’s rich heritage: Tajrish Bazaar &