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Tehran

Ray

Ancient city in the shadow of modern Tehran

26°C · ClearBest season: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
Ray
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Ray (Rey), now swallowed by southern Tehran, is one of the most ancient cities of Iran — millennia of history layered beneath the modern sprawl. Its draws are the great pilgrimage shrine of Shah Abdol-Azim, the elegant Seljuk Toghrol Tower, the rock relief and spring of Cheshmeh Ali, and the ruins of cliff-top castles — a deep dose of pre-Islamic and medieval Iran a metro ride from the capital.

Next 5 days

Thu
37°
21°
Fri
35°
21°
Sat
32°
18°
Sun
31°
19°
Mon
31°
17°

Top places to see

  1. 1

    Shah Abdol-Azim Shrine

    Venerated shrine of a 9th-century descendant of Imam Ali. A major pilgrimage site with stunning tilework and a peaceful courtyard.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    1-2 hours
    Opening hours
    Open daily; modest dress required.
  2. 2

    Toghrol Tower

    12th-century Seljuk-era brick tower. One of the few surviving structures from medieval Ray, possibly a tomb or observatory.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    30-45 minutes
    Opening hours
    Verify before travel.
  3. 3

    Cheshmeh Ali

    Historic spring with Qajar-era reliefs. A prehistoric site later adorned with royal Qajar carvings; a rare green space in Ray.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    1 hour
    Opening hours
    Open daily; verify access.
  4. 4

    Rashkan Castle

    Ruins of a Sassanian-era fortress. One of the last remnants of Ray's pre-Islamic defenses, though heavily eroded.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    45 minutes
    Opening hours
    Verify before travel; limited signage.
  5. 5

    Ray Bazaar

    Traditional market near the shrine. A lively bazaar offering spices, textiles, and local snacks.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    1 hour
    Opening hours
    Closes early on Fridays.
  6. 6

    Ibn Babawayh Cemetery

    Historic burial ground with notable tombs. Final resting place of scholars and poets, including the theologian Ibn Babawayh.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    30 minutes
    Opening hours
    Open daily; respectful attire advised.
  7. 7

    Ray Archaeology Museum

    Small museum showcasing local finds. Artifacts from Ray's ancient and Islamic periods, including pottery and coins.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    45 minutes
    Opening hours
    Verify hours before travel.
  8. 8

    Qaleh Gabri

    Ruins of a Zoroastrian fire temple. A rare pre-Islamic religious site, though mostly in ruins.

    Where
    Shahr-e Rey
    Time needed
    30 minutes
    Opening hours
    Unfenced; verify access.
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