Elizabeth Taylor, one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, traveled to Iran in 1976. This trip marked her only visit to the country. Firooz Zahedi, a young photographer, went with her. Zahedi had recently finished art school. He was still learning the art of photography.
Taylor and Zahedi explored several well-known Iranian locations. One stop was Persepolis, the ancient capital of the Persian Empire. Persepolis is famous for its incredible ruins. These ruins show the grandeur of a powerful civilization from long ago.
They also visited Isfahan, a city known for its beautiful architecture. Isfahan boasts stunning mosques and palaces. These buildings display intricate designs and vibrant colors. The city is a showcase of Islamic art and Persian history.
Shiraz was another city on their itinerary. Shiraz is celebrated for its gardens and poetry. It’s the city of poets like Hafez and Saadi. Their tombs in Shiraz are important cultural sites.
Zahedi took many photographs of Taylor during the trip. These photos show Taylor against the backdrop of Iran’s historical sites. She wore flowing caftans, a type of long, loose-fitting robe. She also chose colorful scarves. The images capture a blend of Hollywood glamour and Persian culture.
The visit happened during a specific time in Iranian history. It was before the 1979 revolution, a major event that changed the country. The photos therefore capture a moment in time. That moment existed right before big changes took place in Iran.
