How to Call Iran from India | Iran ISD Code | International Roaming in Iran

The flag of Iran is composed of three horizontal stripes of green, white, and red color. Traditionally, the green stands for Islam, white stripe, which is slightly wider, represents hope and peace, and the red stripe should provide courage in battles. These colors were adopted in 1907 already, but the central motif of the flag was until 1979, when Iran became the Islamic Republic, a lion with sword looking at the rising sun. Later, the lion was replaced by a red tulip motif, which is composed of five parts, each of which represents one pillar of Islam. The boundary between the green and white stripe and the red and white stripe is made of eleven inscriptions “God is great” in kufic script.

Things are changing, though. Since the election of a moderate president in 2013 and the gradual thawing of relations with the West, this once out-of-bounds country has started to open up. No one’s pretending that its current leadership can’t be shockingly hard-fisted in matters of civic law. But most foreigners are likely to find their preconceptions shattered. They will find Iranians warm and friendly, keen to practice their English and quick with the tea invites.

Rich Persian heritage dating back 3,000 years is evident throughout the country. Historical sights like the ancient ruins of Persepolis and the still-glorious former capital of Isfahan are abundant. Iran has a distinct cultural identity too, with its predominately Shia-Muslim population, which sets it apart from most nations in the Islamic world.