Why it matters:
New Julfa, founded in 1606 by decree of Shah Abbas I, is one of the most enduring examples of cultural coexistence and global commerce in early modern Iran. This Armenian quarter in Isfahan became a hub where Christian faith, Persian artistry, and international trade flourished side by side.
Historical context:
Shah Abbas relocated thousands of Armenian families from Old Julfa to Isfahan to protect them from Ottoman threats and harness their commercial expertise.
Armenian merchants connected Iran to global markets, exporting silk and importing silver, spices, and luxury goods from Europe and Asia.
Within decades, New Julfa emerged as one of Asia’s most prosperous trading centers.
Cultural legacy:
Vank Cathedral, completed in the 17th century, blends Armenian Christian design with Safavid architecture. Its frescoes combine biblical scenes with Persian miniature motifs.
The cathedral’s museum houses rare manuscripts, vestments, and one of Iran’s oldest printing presses, brought in 1636.
Over a dozen churches, including St. Mary’s, St. George’s, and Bethlehem, preserve centuries of Armenian artistry and religious devotion.
Religious coexistence:
Armenians practiced Christianity openly in Muslim-majority Isfahan, enjoying religious freedom rare for the time.
The peaceful coexistence between Muslim and Armenian residents continues today, with shared festivals like Christmas and Easter celebrated publicly.
Modern relevance:
Though many Armenians emigrated in the 20th century, New Julfa remains a vibrant cultural center in West Asia.
Its cobbled lanes now host cafes, galleries, and shops selling Armenian coffee, silver crosses, and miniature paintings.
Schools, libraries, and cultural associations maintain the community’s presence and identity.
The bottom line:
New Julfa is more than a historic district; it’s a living testament to how exile turned into prosperity, and how faith, trade, and tolerance shaped one of Iran’s most remarkable urban stories.
Hossein Amiri - ahmad shirzadian
