Shiraz Week celebrates springtime jewel of Iran’s civilization

SHIRAZ, 8 May (BelTA - IRNA) - Shiraz, long hailed as the poetic and cultural heart of Iran, is marking its annual Shiraz Week from May 5 to 12, transforming the historic city into a vibrant stage of art, heritage, and collective memory.

The celebrations opened with the traditional hidden-treasure ceremony and the ritual replacement of the Quran at the iconic Quran Gate, underscoring more than 11 centuries of Islamic history in the city.

The handwritten Quran previously housed there will be transferred to the City Museum, whose second phase is being inaugurated this week, accompanied by the unveiling of several historical books.

Throughout the city, the scent of orange blossoms and spring flowers fills streets and markets, while musicians and performers echo Shiraz’s deep artistic legacy. A diverse program of cultural and artistic events has been scheduled, though some large gatherings will be postponed depending on conditions.

Key highlights include the unveiling of the symphony of Shiraz urban sculpture, equipped with a visual barcode enabling citizens to listen to the piece, guided city tours through gardens and the historic fabric, Shirazology lecture series recorded for TV programs, and the installation of 18 busts of leading scientific figures in Eram Garden, creating a path of elites.

Shiraz Week will also feature poetry nights, the opening of Naqqareh Khaneh Square, international events, and new cultural agreements between the municipality and major academic institutions, reaffirming Shiraz’s role as Iran’s cultural forefront.

The unveiling of five social and cultural impact‑assessment proposals for major urban projects will be another key part of Shiraz Week.