We said good-bye to our host in Shiraz and headed towards Yazd. But first, we visited the ancient town of Persepolis.

Previously I wrote several times about the incredible hospitality if the Iranian people. It’s not a legend, it’s not an exaggeration: they are the most hospitable people I’ve ever met. Just take this example: in Yazd, Ali offered us his entire home even though he was not even in town. I’m on CouchSurfing since 2006 and on Hospitality Club since 2005, but didn’t ever have this experience.

Please click on the first picture (and the following ones) for the story:

Bianka guarded the spices she received from Soroush’s family in Padena like it would be a gem. I wonder when will she cook something and use them…

The ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire (ca. 550–330 BC) is situated 60 km Northeast of the city of Shiraz. Persepolis is magnificent. Just look at those massive stone blocks. How on Earth did they carry them there, and put them on top of each other?

I just wanted to feel the history in Persepolis. Some thought I’m Jewish. A young man asked me why was I doing this? He thought I’m Jewish and imitate what people do at the Western Wall

Some people were uncivilized even then…

After invading Achaemenid Persia in 330 BC, Alexander the Great sent the main force of his army to Persepolis by the Royal Road. He burned the place down. Considered savage and barbaric nowadays, business as usual then…

In the souring heat of Persepolis…

A bas-relief from centuries ago and a hand of today…

Ali offered us his spacious apartment in Yazd. We were greeted by a nice lady and his daughter. Meeting them was adventurous: we massaged Ali, our host, he notified the lady, the lady told him she cannot find us, and this was relayed to us by him. Finally we managed to meet and drove to the apartment building. They handed over the keys, they made a selfie, sent it to Ali and went away… 🙂 Unfortunately they didn’t speak English at all…

Ducks overlooking the gas stove… 🙂 Hungry, girls and boys?

The apartment (1)

The apartment (2)

The apartment (3)

Huge living room

Do they still use it?