Isfahan contains some of the world’s most beautiful Islamic monuments, and has a history dating back over 2,700 years. The city’s moment of glory came in the 17th century when the town was made the capital of the Safavid empire by Shah Abbas the Great. At this time some of the most stunning Islamic architecture in the world was created – buildings that, amongst other things, served as the inspiration for the Taj Mahal. Few people are not astonished by what they see. A tour of Isfahan should start with Maidan-e-Naghsh-e-Jahan which Shah Abbas planned to be the centre of the city. The square is framed by a wall of blind arcades and surrounded by the Masjid-e-Imam (Shah Mosque) on one side, noted as the epitome of Islamic architecture, and the Mosque of Sheikh Lotfollah with its colourful intricate work ranking among the world’s best tile-work. The Safavid kings sat in the Ali Qapu Palace, which was built as a residential and ceremonial palace overlooking the Maidan. Isfahan’s Qaisarrieh Bazaar, on the southern side of the Maidan, is considered one of the most exotic in the Middle East, and offers a rich variety of goods including carpets, tiles and miniature paintings. The Chehel Sotun (Forty Column) Palace was constructed as a pleasure pavilion and audience hall for the Safavid kings, who received and entertained foreign dignitaries there. Another palace is the Hesht-Behesht (Eight Paradise). Isfahan also boasts some of the most beautiful bridges in the world, among them the Khajou, the Sio-se-Pol and Shahrestan, the oldest of the Isfahan bridges. Shah Abbas moved the Armenians, a Christian minority, from the northern border of Iran and settled them in a quarter named New Julfa. The many churches that he allowed them to build, including the Vank Cathedral, are also a testament to that period. Two full days are recommended to see Isfahan.