Nowshahr history

Foundation and First Mentions

Nowshahr (translated from Persian as "New City") is a relatively young settlement by the standards of Iran's ancient history. Its history as a significant urban centre began in the early 20th century, during the reign of the Pahlavi dynasty. Prior to this, a small village known as Habib-Abad, and later Dehno, was located on the site of the modern city.

The official establishment of the city is linked to large-scale urban planning projects of the 1930s, when active development of the Caspian coast infrastructure began by the order of Reza Shah, and the settlement received its current name.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small coastal village into an important strategic hub was driven by several factors:

• Port Construction: The main driver of growth was the creation of a deep-water port. Design and construction were carried out with the involvement of European engineers (particularly from Belgium and the Netherlands), allowing Nowshahr to become one of the key trade gateways on the Caspian Sea.
• Geographical Location: The city is situated in a unique climatic zone between the Alborz mountain range and the Caspian Sea. Its proximity to the capital (Tehran) made it an ideal point for logistics.
• Transport Accessibility: The city's development proceeded in parallel with the construction of the famous Chalus Road, connecting the coast with the central plateau of Iran, which ensured a constant flow of goods and people.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Since its foundation, Nowshahr has developed as a port city and a resort. The early economy was based on maritime trade with neighbouring countries of the Caspian basin, as well as the agriculture of the Mazandaran province (citrus and rice cultivation).

The cultural character of the city was shaped by its status as a "summer residence". Thanks to its mild climate and picturesque landscapes, Nowshahr quickly became a popular holiday destination for the Iranian elite and residents of the capital, which contributed to the emergence of hotels and recreational zones here as early as the middle of the last century.

Timeline of Nowshahr's Development

• Early 20th Century — A small coastal village called Habib-Abad, later known as Dehno, existed on the site of the future city.
• 1928 — Initial engineering surveys conducted to select a site for the construction of a major port on the southern coast of the Caspian.
• 1930 — Start of the active phase of port construction involving European contractors, including Dutch and Belgian companies.
• 1933 — The settlement of Dehno is officially renamed Nowshahr, marking its new status as a developing city.
• 1939 — Completion of construction and official opening of the Port of Nowshahr, becoming one of the region's key trade hubs.
• 1953 — Commissioning of Nowshahr Airport, significantly simplifying connections with Tehran and other cities.
• 1980 — Foundation of the University of Marine Sciences, turning the city into an important educational centre for the maritime industry.
• 1990s — Intensive development of tourism infrastructure and construction of private villas and hotels along the coast.
• 2011 — Designation of the port and surrounding areas as a Special Economic Zone to attract investment.
• 2020s — Implementation of projects to modernize port terminals and expand trade cooperation with Caspian basin countries.

Development Milestones and Their Impact

The history of Nowshahr is an example of a rapid transformation from a small settlement into a strategic centre on the Caspian Sea coast. Each of the events listed below played a decisive role in shaping the modern economic and cultural appearance of the city.

• Construction of the deep-water port. The creation of the port was the starting point for the city's economy. It turned Nowshahr from a local fishing spot into an international trade hub, ensuring direct trade turnover with Caspian basin countries and creating thousands of jobs.
• Implementation of the Master Plan. Unlike many ancient cities in Iran with chaotic development, Nowshahr developed according to a clear plan. The laying of wide streets and the creation of a grid structure of blocks in the 1930s laid the foundation for a comfortable urban environment and future expansion.
• Opening of Nowshahr Airport. The appearance of an air hub (one of the oldest in the north of the country) radically changed logistics. It not only accelerated business processes but also made the resort accessible to residents of distant regions, giving a powerful impulse to the development of tourism.
• Foundation of the University of Marine Sciences. The opening of a higher education institution (now the Imam Khomeini University of Marine Sciences) gave the city the status of an educational and scientific centre. The influx of students and professors revitalized cultural life and contributed to the development of the service sector.
• Creation of Sisangan Forest Park. The decision to preserve the unique Hyrcanian forests in the immediate vicinity of the city and create a national park based on them formed Nowshahr's image as a centre of eco-tourism, attracting nature lovers from all over the world.
• Assignment of Special Economic Zone (SEZ) status. In 2011, the port and adjacent territories received special status. This decision attracted private investment, simplified customs procedures, and stimulated the construction of new warehousing and industrial facilities.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

Nowshahr is a unique example of a city that did not form spontaneously over centuries but was designed and built according to a clear master plan in the 20th century. The architectural landscape of the city reflects its dual nature: on one hand, it is a strategic port and industrial hub; on the other, a popular seaside resort.

Urban Development

Unlike the ancient cities of central Iran with their winding narrow streets, Nowshahr is distinguished by a regular layout established in the 1930s.

• Grid Structure: The city is designed on a "chessboard" principle with wide avenues and boulevards oriented either parallel to the coastline or perpendicular to it, descending from the mountains to the sea.
• Green Framework: An important part of the urban plan was landscaping. The city streets often resemble alleys planted with plane trees and palms, creating a comfortable microclimate.
• Connection to the Sea: The city centre and main administrative buildings are oriented towards the port and the embankment, emphasizing the status of the "maritime gateway" of the province.

Architectural Styles and Eras

Since Nowshahr is a young city, medieval styles such as Gothic or classical Persian architecture of the Safavid era are absent here. The main architectural stock was formed in the 20th and 21st centuries.

1. Modernism and Functionalism (Pahlavi Era, 1930–1970s)

The period of the city's founding coincided with Iran's course towards Westernization and modernization. Buildings from this period are characterized by:

• Strict geometric forms and minimal decoration.
• Use of concrete and brick.
• Emphasis on function: port buildings, administrative institutions, and early public structures are executed in a restrained, utilitarian style reminiscent of European functionalism of that time.

2. Vernacular Architecture of Mazandaran (Traditional Style)

Despite modern development, the region's climate (high humidity and frequent rain) dictates its own rules, forming a recognizable local style that is integrated into modern buildings:

• Sloped Roofs: The city's calling card is gable or hipped roofs ("shirvani"), covered with coloured tiles or metal. Flat roofs, typical for dry central Iran, are practically never found here.
• Open Balconies and Verandas: Elements that allow residents to enjoy the mild climate and provide ventilation.

3. Modern Resort Architecture (Postmodernism and Eclecticism, since the 1990s)

In recent decades, with the development of tourism, the coast has been built up with private villas, hotels, and residential complexes.

• The style varies from neoclassical palaces to high-tech designs with full glazing.
• Active use of panoramic windows for views of the sea and forest.

Iconic Buildings and Districts

The appearance of Nowshahr is shaped by several key objects reflecting its history:

• Municipality Building: An example of administrative architecture from the mid-20th century, located in the city centre.
• Imam Khomeini University of Marine Sciences: A large educational complex occupying a significant territory. Its architecture combines the strictness of an educational institution with elements of maritime themes.
• Old Pier and Port Structures: The industrial heart of the city, where structures from the time of the port's founding, built by European engineers, have been preserved.

Historical Figures and Founders

As Nowshahr is a relatively young city that emerged as a result of large-scale infrastructure projects of the 20th century, its history is inextricably linked with the figures who defined its urban planning appearance.

• Reza Shah Pahlavi
  Role: Shah of Iran, initiator of the city's foundation
  It was by his personal decree in the 1930s that the construction of the deep-water port and the redevelopment of the small village of Dehno into the modern city of Nowshahr began. His decision to create a strategic transport hub on the Caspian became the starting point in the city's history.

Prominent Athletes

Mazandaran province, and Nowshahr in particular, is famous for its sporting traditions. The city has given Iran a whole galaxy of talented athletes who have achieved success on the international stage, especially in football and wrestling.

• Hasan Rangraz
  Role: Greco-Roman wrestler, sports official
  A native of Nowshahr who became the World Champion in Greco-Roman wrestling in 2001. He is one of the most respected figures in Iranian sports and later held posts as the technical director of national teams.
• Rahman Ahmadi
  Role: Football goalkeeper
  A well-known goalkeeper who played for leading Iranian clubs (such as Persepolis and Sepahan). He was part of the Iranian national team at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
• Mohsen Bengar
  Role: Footballer, defender
  A legend of Iranian club football, who was captain of the capital's giant Persepolis for many years. Known for his reliable defensive play and leadership qualities, he was an AFC Champions League finalist.
• Kianoush Rahmati
  Role: Footballer and coach
  A midfielder who had a successful career at clubs Esteghlal and Saipa, with whom he became the champion of Iran. After retiring as a player, he continued working as a coach.
• Meysam Baou
  Role: Footballer
  A talented attacking midfielder born in Nowshahr. During his career, he managed to play for both of the country's main clubs — Esteghlal and Persepolis — and also appeared for the national team.