Hakim Ferdowsi of Tus is the most renowned and wise epic poet of Iran and the world. Through his unparalleled masterpiece, the Shahnameh, he has served as a guardian of the Persian language and Iranian culture for eleven centuries after his death. One of his most important goals was to draw the attention of Iranians to wisdom, peace, friendship, and the avoidance of hatred and war. With his righteous thoughts, words, and actions throughout his life, Ferdowsi can be seen as the true representative of the innate goodness of the Iranian people.

At the request of the Mashhad City Council and the Mayor, a cultural complex named “Ferdowsi Cultural Park” has been designed and approved in close proximity and deep connection with the mausoleum of this great man, in full compliance with cultural heritage regulations (including the ban on construction within the walls and protected area of the ancient city of Tus).

This complex is being developed as a 21-hectare campus made up of seven interconnected gardens:

1. Garden of Cultural Halls — comprising four halls, situated below the elevation of Ferdowsi’s tomb:

• • • Hall of Ferdowsi’s Life: The process and purpose behind composing the Shahnameh.

    • Hall of Three Cities: Exploring the historical and cultural roles of Tus, Nishapur, and Mashhad, and their prominent figures in Iranian and Asian history.

    • Hall of Shahnameh and Children: Highlighting the role of children and youth in the Shahnameh and their impact on future generations.

    • Hall of Friendship Among Nations: A space for introducing the cultures of neighboring and Asian countries, with opportunities to host national friendship days or weeks.

    • On the rooftop of these halls, at the same level as Ferdowsi’s tomb, a garden of flowers mentioned in the Shahnameh will be planted. (For more information, see project 2-66)

2. Garden of Legends (Iranian Mythology) — An immersive experience of the Shahnameh’s heroes, warriors, and battles brought to life through advanced audiovisual and holographic technologies.

3. Garden of Persian Poets (The Eminent Ones) — Introducing Persian poets from each century to the present day, displayed on terraced platforms (each level representing one century).

4. Garden of Gatherings — For public events, theatrical performances, storytelling (naghali), and demonstrations of traditional sports and martial arts.

5. Garden of Vehicles — A designated area for visitor parking and special ceremonies.

6. Garden of Rest — A tranquil resting area for visitors beside their parked cars.

7. Entrance Garden — Includes security, visitor information, and route orientation.

It is hoped that with the implementation of this plan, part of the nation’s debt to this great figure in Iranian history will be repaid.