The National Jewels Museum: Tehran's Underground Treasury

Located beneath the Central Bank of Iran on Ferdowsi Boulevard in Tehran, the National Jewels Museum houses one of the world's most spectacular collections of precious gems and royal regalia. This unique museum, accessible via a separate entrance from the bank, serves as a secure vault preserving the opulent history of Persian empires. It is easily reachable by metro, with Mellat Station (Line 2) and Ferdowsi Station (Lines 1 & 4) within a 5-10 minute walk.

A Legacy of Dynasties and Riches

The museum's collection is not the result of a single acquisition but a cumulative treasury amassed over centuries by various Persian dynasties, including the Safavid, Afsharid, Qajar, and Pahlavi. These rulers continuously added to the collection, using the jewels to symbolize their power, wealth, and the nation's prosperity. Notably, Nader Shah Afshar's 1739 invasion of India brought immense treasures, including the famous Darya-i-Noor diamond, to Persia.

In 1937, these national treasures were designated as state assets, underpinning the value of Iran's currency. The museum was officially established in 1960 within the Central Bank's vault to allow public access to this unparalleled heritage. The collection, comprising over 35,000 items, includes not only raw gems but also crowns, thrones, ceremonial objects, and everyday items adorned with precious stones, reflecting the artistic and historical depth of Persian craftsmanship.

Strict Security and Key Exhibits

Entry to the National Jewels Museum involves a rigorous multi-stage security process. All personal belongings, including phones, cameras, and bags, must be deposited in secure lockers. Visitors undergo metal detection and thorough body searches, emphasizing the immense value of the exhibits. This strict protocol transforms the entry into a unique part of the museum experience, leading visitors into the heavily fortified underground vault.

Among the highlights is the Darya-i-Noor (Sea of Light) diamond, one of the largest pink diamonds globally, weighing approximately 182 carats. Its mystical pink hue and colossal size make it a central piece of the collection, symbolizing centuries of royal power. Another prominent exhibit is the Naderi Throne, intricately crafted from gold and silver and adorned with over 26,000 jewels, including diamonds, emeralds, and rubies. This throne, inspired by India's Peacock Throne, showcases unique Persian aesthetics and the grandeur of its rulers.

The Jeweled Globe, created in 1869 during the Qajar dynasty, is another masterpiece. This golden globe features continents made of emeralds, oceans of rubies, and Iran itself depicted with diamonds. With over 34,000 jewels and weighing 36 kg, it represents the wealth and global perspective of the Persian Empire at the time. The museum also displays crowns and artifacts from the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties, illustrating the continuity of royal splendor.

Visitor Information

The museum operates from 14:00 to 16:30 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. It is closed on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Due to visitor limits, checking the official website for the latest operating hours before your visit is highly recommended. Admission for foreigners is approximately IRR 200,000, payable in Iranian Rials cash only. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum, and visitors must follow staff instructions carefully. An English-speaking guide is often available to provide explanations.