The visits of European tourists and travellers to Iran and their writings about the ways of life and the traditions of the simple folk as well as the men of court, the princes, and the shahs are valuable sources for us.
Chardin, the French traveller who visited Iran and especially its royal palaces, manors and mansions during the reign of Shah Abbas II, is one of the numerous travellers who have narrated Iran of the past.
He writes the following about the feast held in the Chehel Sotoun Palace in his travelogue:
“These celebrations were held for five days, which five of the things happening in them is quite interesting. First, the presence of about 250 to 300 high-ranking and especial personalities, dressed in rich clothes fitting their jobs; second, the guests’ silence, formality and serenity; third, the agility of the servants in setting and clearing the table; fourth, the exceptional discipline of the celebration, in which there is no confusion or chaos; fifth, praise and admiration for the large fortune spent on displaying expensive dishes.”
Name of Manion Chehelsotun
Location Ostandari St, Darvazeh Dowlat
Era Safavid
Founder Shah Abbas I
Current Function Museum-Garden
Name of traveler Jean Chardin
Profession Jeweller, Merchant, and traveler
Year of arrival at Iran 1664
Title given by Shah Abbas II Tajer Bashi
Name of Book The Travels of Sir John Chardin
