This is an unofficial web site of town of Astaneh, formerly known as Karaj, located at the southwest corner of the Markazi province of Iran.
The above rare and historical Picture of Emamazadeh of Astaneh was taken by Nasserodin Shah's photographer, in Shah’s trip to Astaneh in 1309 Ghamari (1888 or 1889 AD) (1267 or 1268 Shamsi). This is most probably the oldest photo of Astaneh and it is currently kept in the "Mirase Farhangi Ostan Markazi" archive in Arak . I would like to appreciate Saeid Sharifi for sending this picture to us and we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Hosein Sadeghi for making it possible.
Nothern view of Astaneh from Karanjil Hill, photo by Hossein Abolhasany (habolhasany@astaneh.com), 6/7/2004 (83/3/17)
This site contains information about Astaneh, its history, people, and culture. Also you can find pictures from the past and present. Pictures will constantly be added, and new articles are also added to this site regularly.
This site is being operated by owners' private fund; and does not belong to, and has no affiliation with any political or religious group or organization. Opinions expressed in articles and the way pictures are presented are solely the responsibility of the authors.
The purpose of this site is to promote Astaneh, its history, culture and people. It is only a first step of a long journey. Hopefully someday it will reflect the heart and soul of this beautiful, historic and romantic oasis, tucked in between beautiful valleys, mountains and hills.
Over 200 years ago a local mystic poet, Fadaei (Haj Molla Esmaeil) compared it to Eram (paradise). He said: "although paradise is an imaginary (majazi) place, Astaneh is a real (beh haghighat) paradise."
We will dedicate this site to the people of Astanhe who have endured, Arab, Mongol, and Afghan invasions over the centuries, and are the soul of this wonderful land, we call home.
 | This is a part of a "ghasideh" by Haj Molla Esameil Fadaei (1184-1262 Hejri Ghamari) a poet from Astenh. This beautiful calligraphy has been done by Colonel Karim Saberi (ksaberi@astaneh.com) in 1382 Shamsi. The entire "ghasideh" can be seen below. |
