TEHRAN- Rising above the historical city of Golpayegan in Isfahan province, the Golpayegan Minaret stands as a prominent reminder of Iran’s Seljuk-era architectural achievements and the region’s role in historic travel routes. 

The 18-meter-high structure, typically part of a mosque, with a balcony from which a muezzin calls Muslims to prayer, is built on a hill overlooking the city, where it once served as a guiding landmark for caravans travelling along ancient trade corridors, including the historical Silk Road. 
According to sources, in earlier centuries, fires were lit on the minaret’s summit during nights and foggy weather, helping travelers navigate safely toward the city.

Also known as the Fanous-e Sahra or “Desert Lantern,” the minaret reflects a blend of functional design and artistic craftsmanship. 

The minaret aka Mil-e Golpayegan is supported by an octagonal base featuring two entrance doors on its northern and southern sides. Each doorway leads to a separate spiral staircase consisting of 64 steps. The staircases run parallel without visible connection, a design that likely allowed one route for ascending and another for descending.

The base of the minaret displays intricate brickwork that highlights the decorative traditions of the Seljuk period. Each side is adorned with geometric brick patterns and tall archways framed by half-columns formed from carefully carved bricks. Above the entrance, additional arches feature detailed brick ornamentation. A notable artistic and cultural element is the Kufic inscription located near the base, adding spiritual and historical significance to the monument.

From the polygonal base, the tower rises in a circular form decorated with simple yet striking geometric brick patterns. Near the top, several windows framed in wood offer views of the surrounding landscape and reflect later architectural modifications. Studies suggest that during the Seljuk era, the upper section functioned as an observation and guidance point. In the Safavid period, the windows and upper spaces were sealed and decorated with tilework, illustrating how the monument evolved through successive historical periods.

The construction techniques used in building the minaret demonstrate advanced engineering knowledge. Experts believe builders excavated a deep pit into the firm soil of the hill before beginning construction. The column was then erected from the base of the pit, supported by semi-crescent-shaped foundations designed to stabilize the structure against environmental pressures. This method has helped the minaret withstand earthquakes and storms over centuries. The elevated hilltop location also protects the structure by preventing soil saturation, which could otherwise weaken its foundations.

Today, the Golpayegan Minaret is recognized as a nationally registered heritage monument and remains one of the city’s most distinctive historical landmarks. 
Alongside Golpayegan’s traditional architecture and cultural attractions, the minaret offers visitors insight into Iran’s medieval travel networks, architectural innovation, and artistic heritage, making it a notable destination for cultural tourism in central Iran.

AM