Overview
In the centre of Tehran, lies the Martyrs Museum. This specialty museum stands as a tribute to over 700 individuals who lost their lives during the Iran-Iraq war. Established in 1979, the museum is a poignant reflection of Iran’s recent history, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in understanding the nation’s cultural heritage.
Museum’s Exhibits
The Martyrs Museum showcases a diverse range of personal items left behind by those who perished in the war. From photographs to glasses, wills, prayer mats, and prayer beads, each object tells a unique and personal story of those who served and sacrificed during the war. Visitors can also view an array of artifacts, including memoir notebooks, educational documents, Quran books, calligraphy pieces, lecture tapes, articles, books, and artworks.
Brief History of the Martyrs Museum
The inception of the Martyrs Museum dates back to 1979 when it began as an exhibition of posters themed around martyrdom and revolution. This initiative was led by a group of students after the onset of the “imposed war“, known to those outside Iran as the “Iran-Iraq War“. By 1980, the exhibition was handed over to the Cultural Unit of the Martyrs Foundation of the Islamic Revolution. In 1983, it officially assumed the name “Martyrs Museum,” before moving to its current location.
In 1986, the museum was moved to a new location, and it was officially reopened in 1987, where it remains today. The museum received an annexation and completion in 2004, and currently, with a collection of 12,473 artifacts (clothing, volumes, and documents) from 1,310 martyrs, it stands as one of Tehran’s notable attractions. The museum has also worked with several gallery and exhibition companies in the country.
Should you go?
Whether you’re a history buff or simply a tourist seeking to understand more about Iran’s cultural heritage, the Martyrs Museum in Tehran provides a profound look into a pivotal moment in Iran’s history.
Opening Hours and Entry Fee
The Martyrs Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Visitors will be pleased to know that entry to the museum is free, allowing everyone the opportunity to pay their respects and learn more about this significant period in Iranian history.
Address and Location of Martyrs Museum
Located at Taleghani Street, next to Forsat Street in downtown Tehran, the Museum is conveniently accessible for locals and tourists alike. Nestled on the corner Taleghani and Iranshahr in Tehran, the museum is at the heart of city activities directly across from the Chamber of Commerce.
Access to Martyrs Museum
The Museum is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. It is situated on Taleghani Street, next to Forsat Street.
By Personal Vehicle:
The museum can be reached directly if you’re driving around downtown Tehran.
By Metro:
The museum is just a short 400 meters walk from the Taleghani Metro Station on Metro Line 1.
By Bus
There is a bus service that runs down a dedicated bus lane connecting over to Sepah Square to Valiasr and onwards to Felestin Street