The original Iranians were the Persians (Pars or Fars) who settled on Iran' high central plateau around one millennium B.C. They were descendants of Indo-Europeans known as Aryans who migrated from the north. It is after these Aryan ancestors that the modern name of Iran (land of the Aryans) was chosen in 1953 to replace the ancient name of Persia. Thus, Iranians are close relatives of the Germanic or European races and speak a Indo-European based language. Iran is a vast country (630,000 square miles). Located in the Middle East and forming the western part of Asia, Iran covers a large portion of the extensive plateau which has an average height of some 1000 meters. Iran is surrounded by Iraq (Mesopotamia of old) to the west. Pakistan and Afghanistan to the east, the steppes of Russia to the north and the Persian Gulf to the south. Iran forms a great connecting land bridge between Asia and Europe. Its area is roughly equal to the combined areas of France, England, Germany, Italy, Belgium. Iran can be divided roughly into three regions: one third mountains, one third deserts, and one third forests. Over the centuries, Iran has suffered many invasions. Nonetheless, the Iranian people have always retained their unique cultural identity. As a result of their advanced culture, Iranians usually influenced the invaders more than the invaders influenced them. Iran has a great deal of ethnic diversity throughout the country coupled with great tolerance for differences. Iranians are a proud people known for their open-mindedness, intelligence, respect for education, hospitality and friendliness. In addition to ethnic diversity, a variety of religions exists in Iran. The uninitiated tourist may be surprised at the spirit of tolerance

prevailing in an Islamic country where more than 90% of the population are practicing Muslims. Churches and temples belonging to the world’s major religions function freely. Mosques can usually be visited any time except on Fridays and at certain hours of the day devoted to prayers. Only a small number of sanctuaries in the holy cities of Qum, Mashhad, and Rey are out of bounds to non Muslim visitors. Iran is one of the oldest cradles of human civilization. Persepolis, alone, is worth a visit to Iran. The list of significant ancient attractions is endless. Tourism's main focus, however, has always centered on the cities of Iran. The cities are alive with the building of new factories, government buildings, schools, universities, hospitals, hotels, as well as residential housing. Streets are enhanced by trees, shrubbery, flowers, and fountains. Parks and gardens are open to the public for their enjoyment. Shopping in the Bazaars is a unique experience for the tourist. But, perhaps the greatest drawing card to the cities are the beautiful and unique mosques. Come to Iran to see the ancient past and the progressive present of this fascinating country.