Yazd, a historically Zoroastrian town and a sort of desert outpost that took in people fleeing persecution and wars in other parts of the country, is one of our favorite cities in Iran. Its old city is almost entirely built in brown-red adobe clay, helping to blend it into the surrounding desert landscape and to keep its building interiors cool.
Ones eyes adapt to this mono-color, after which the bright turquoise and intricate Persian Islamic design in the Jameh Mosque will make you feel like you've put on 3-D glasses. Gaze at the mosque's designs long enough and they'll dizzy you, pull you in and play tricks on your eyes as you try to discern the calligraphy, symmetry and symbolism buried within.
Take a look around the almost 900-year old mosque, focusing your attention on the patterns of the mihrab, a semi-circle niche that indicates the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca. From 1365, it's considered one of the finest mihrabs in all of Iran.
Finally, look up and check out the rooftop and lose yourself in the stars of the dome. Enjoy!
