Monar Jonban

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Description

There’s something almost mystical about the Monar Jonban, known in English as the “Shaking Minarets.” It’s one of those places that sounds like a legend until you see it with your own eyes. Located on the quiet western edge of Isfahan, this centuries-old shrine and mosque has a trick up its sleeve — when one of its twin minarets shakes, the other moves too, in perfect harmony. I remember the first time I saw it; I half expected the whole structure to crumble, but it stood firm, swaying gracefully as if alive. It’s an architectural puzzle that has fascinated engineers, mystics, and travelers for generations.

The Monar Jonban dates back to the 14th century, during the Mongol era, built as a shrine over the tomb of a Sufi mystic known as Amu Abdollah. The design looks simple at first glance — a small brick building topped with two slender minarets — but its secret lies in the physics of resonance. The structure is made of interconnected brick and wood, allowing vibrations to travel through the entire building. So when a person climbs up and gently pushes one minaret, the other begins to sway too, even though no one touches it. It’s one of those rare architectural phenomena that make you question what’s real and what’s just clever design.

Now, to be honest, not everyone walks away equally impressed. Some visitors find it smaller than expected, or they’re surprised that shaking the minarets is no longer allowed for safety reasons. But most people, myself included, find it mesmerizing. There’s a quiet charm in watching the ancient structure move ever so slightly, a reminder of how advanced Persian architecture was centuries ago. And when you stand there, surrounded by the crisp desert air and the faint hum of the city beyond, you can’t help but feel a connection to something timeless.

Key Features

• Two identical minarets that sway in unison when one is shaken — a rare architectural phenomenon.
• The shrine of Amu Abdollah, a revered 14th-century Sufi mystic, lies beneath the structure.
• Built with brick and wood, showcasing a unique resonance-based engineering design.
• Located within a peaceful garden area, offering a serene break from Isfahan’s bustling city center.
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, making it convenient for travelers of all abilities.
• Family-friendly site — children often find the shaking effect fascinating to learn about.
• Guided tours available that explain the science and history behind the shaking minarets.
• Beautiful examples of Persian tilework and brick patterns typical of the Ilkhanid era.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me, spring is hands down the best time to visit Monar Jonban. The weather in Isfahan around March to May is warm but not scorching, and the gardens around the shrine are full of life. The light hits the bricks just right in the late afternoon — it’s perfect for photography. Autumn is another great choice, especially if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler air. Summer, though, can be a bit harsh; the heat in Isfahan can make walking around less enjoyable unless you’re an early riser. Winter has its own quiet charm, but the chill can be surprising if you’re not used to desert climates.

Try visiting on a weekday morning if you want to avoid the tour groups. The site tends to get busy in the late afternoon when local families come by. And if you’re into capturing that golden-hour glow, aim for just before sunset — the way the sun hits those twin towers is nothing short of spectacular.

How to Get There

Reaching Monar Jonban is pretty straightforward. It’s located a short drive west of central Isfahan, along the road that leads toward the ancient Fire Temple (Atashgah). You can easily get there by taxi or ride-hailing apps, which are quite affordable in Iran. If you’re the adventurous type, you could rent a bicycle — the route isn’t too long, and the road is scenic, passing through residential areas and open stretches.

Public buses also run toward this part of the city, though schedules can be a bit unpredictable. Personally, I’d go for a taxi; it’s faster, and the drivers often share interesting local stories along the way. Parking is available near the entrance, and for those with accessibility needs, there’s wheelchair-friendly access right up to the main gate.

It’s worth noting that Monar Jonban sits near other historical sites, so you can easily make a half-day trip out of it. Combine your visit with the Fire Temple or a stroll along the Zayandeh River for a perfect mix of history and relaxation.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s the thing — Monar Jonban isn’t just about seeing something move; it’s about feeling the centuries of craftsmanship and curiosity that went into it. To make the most of your visit, here are a few tips I’ve picked up (some from experience, some from chatting with locals):

• Go early: The site opens in the morning, and that’s when you’ll get the best photos without crowds.
• Bring cash: Entry tickets are inexpensive but usually cash-only, and foreign cards rarely work in Iran.
• Respect the rules: Visitors are no longer allowed to climb and shake the minarets due to safety concerns, but you can still see the motion demonstrated by staff during certain hours.
• Ask questions: The guides here are passionate and often bilingual. They’ll happily explain the physics behind the motion and the history of Amu Abdollah’s shrine.
• Stay hydrated: Especially in summer — there’s limited shade, and the sun can be intense.
• Combine it with nearby sites: The Fire Temple and the countryside views west of Isfahan make for a great extended outing.
• Photography tip: Use a tripod or steady hand to capture the subtle movement of the minarets if you’re lucky enough to catch a demonstration.
• Be patient: Sometimes you’ll need to wait for the right moment to see the shaking in action, but trust me, it’s worth it.

One more personal note — take a moment to just stand quietly inside the courtyard. You’ll feel the soft echo of footsteps, the faint creak of old wood, and maybe even the whisper of the wind through the bricks. It’s in those moments that the Monar Jonban reveals its real magic. It’s not just about motion; it’s about balance — between science and spirituality, between stillness and movement. And maybe that’s why people keep coming back century after century.

In the end, Monar Jonban isn’t just another stop on an Isfahan itinerary. It’s a small, humble reminder that even in architecture, there’s a heartbeat — a rhythm that connects the past to the present. Whether you’re an engineer, a history buff, or just a curious traveler like me, this place has a way of shaking more than just its minarets. It shakes a little piece of your imagination too.

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