
19/08/2025
The photograph of Pal-e Tajrish in Tehran, taken circa 1307 in the Iranian calendar (1928 Gregorian), offers a rare glimpse into the urban and cultural landscape of early 20th-century Tehran. At that time, Tajrish was a prominent northern district of the city, known for its picturesque gardens, bustling bazaars, and traditional Qajar-era architecture. The area served as a key social and commercial hub, linking Tehran’s northern neighborhoods with the central city, while also providing a seasonal retreat for residents seeking cooler climates during the hot summer months. This image captures the charm and simplicity of daily life in Tehran before the rapid urbanization and modernization projects of the mid-20th century transformed its streets and skyline.
By the late 1920s, Tehran was experiencing significant infrastructural and cultural changes under the Pahlavi dynasty, which aimed to modernize Iran while preserving its unique heritage. Streets like Pal-e Tajrish were central to the city’s evolving identity, where traditional commerce and communal spaces thrived alongside emerging cafes, teahouses, and small-scale industries. The photograph reflects not only architectural details such as brickwork, wooden balconies, and narrow alleys but also the vibrant social interactions of the period—locals walking, vendors selling goods, and families navigating the daily rhythm of the city. Tajrish’s elevated location provided panoramic views and a cooler microclimate, making it a preferred destination for artists, intellectuals, and merchants alike.
This historic image of Pal-e Tajrish remains a valuable artifact for understanding Tehran’s cultural and urban evolution. The streets, marketplaces, and public spaces captured in 1307 reflect the city’s resilience, its blend of tradition and modernity, and the lived experiences of residents navigating daily life in a period of transformation. Today, while modern developments have reshaped much of Tehran, photographs like this preserve the memory of its early 20th-century character, offering scholars, urban historians, and enthusiasts a detailed window into the city’s architectural, social, and commercial history. Pal-e Tajrish continues to be celebrated for its heritage, charm, and historical significance in the tapestry of Tehran’s urban narrative.