Shahmirzad is a scenic city in Semnan Province, Iran, located 24 km from Semnan on the southern slopes of the Alborz Mountains. Known for its lush greenery amidst a desert region, it is often referred to as a “green gem” or the “lost paradise of the desert” due to its unique climate and vegetation[1][4][6].
### Key Features
– *Climate*: Shahmirzad enjoys moderate summers and cold winters, with an average annual temperature of 11°C. Its cool climate attracts tourists, especially in summer[1][4].
– *Agriculture*: It hosts the world’s largest walnut orchard (700–750 hectares), recognized by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization. Other prominent produce includes plums, apples, pears, apricots, and cherries[2][6].
– *Historical Significance*: Shahmirzad’s history dates back 3,000 years to the Sassanid era. It was part of Tabarestan and features historical sites like Shir Ghale Castle and Sheikhi Castle[1][6].
– *Cultural Ties*: The Shahmirzadi language is a Caspian dialect related to Mazandarani. The city has strong cultural links with Mazandaran Province[2].
### Demographics
As of the 2016 census, Shahmirzad had a population of 11,191. During summer, this number swells to around 40,000 due to tourism[2].
### Tourism Highlights
– *Natural Beauty*: Visitors are drawn to its gardens, orchards, and cool climate.
– *Cuisine: Local dishes like *Tah Chin (crispy saffron rice cake) are popular among tourists[4].
– *Souvenirs*: Walnuts are the most sought-after souvenir from Shahmirzad[4].
Shahmirzad offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural depth, making it a unique destination in Iran.
Sources
[1] Shahmirzad | Tourist Attractions|Travel to Iran https://www.alaedin.travel/en/attractions/iran/mehdishahr/shahmirzad
[2] Shahmirzad – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shahmirzad
[3] Shahmirzadi in Iran people group profile – Joshua Project https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/18860
[4] Visit Shahmirzad Village, green gem in desert – iFilm https://en.ifilmtv.ir/News/Content/35228/
[5] Shahmirzad District – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shahmirzad_District
[6] Shahrmirzad, the Lost Paradise of the Desert – GoPersis https://gopersis.com/shahrmirzad/
[7] Shahmirzad, Iran: All You Must Know Before You Go (2025) https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g7908955-Shahmirzad_Semnan_Province-Vacations.html
[8] A Miracle in the Middle of Iran’s Desert: Why Does No … – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TGvJwV3nr4
Some notable individuals from Shahmirzad include:
– *Zabihollah Safa*: A prominent Iranian scholar and professor at the University of Tehran, specializing in Persian literature and history (d. 1999)[1].
– *Hají Ákhúnd*: An Apostle of Baháʼu’lláh and a Hand of the Cause in the Baháʼí Faith, recognized for his contributions to the Baháʼí community[1].
Sources
[1] Shahmirzad – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shahmirzad
[2] List of Iranians – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Iranians
[3] Iranian Actors and Celebrities in Hollywood – IMDb https://www.imdb.com/list/ls561726566/
[4] Shahmirzadi in Iran people group profile – Joshua Project https://joshuaproject.net/people_groups/18860
[5] Shahrmirzad, the Lost Paradise of the Desert – GoPersis https://gopersis.com/shahrmirzad/
[6] List of famous people with ME, CFS, and/or FMS – MEpedia https://me-pedia.org/wiki/List_of_famous_people_with_ME,_CFS,_and/or_FMS
[7] Famous People | Newnan, GA https://www.newnanga.gov/185/Famous-People
[8] Famous People & Places – Town of Huntington, Long Island, New York https://www.huntingtonny.gov/content/13747/99540/16499/default.aspx
