Tehran is geographically remote, why did Iran choose it as its capital?

As early as the 9th century, Tehran was still a very ordinary small village, and its popularity was not high. But after the Mongols destroyed Rai, many people chose to flee to Tehran for refuge. In the history of Iran, they moved their capital frequently, and finally settled on Tehran. This is puzzling. How was Tehran chosen?

Long history, 32 capital moves

Like China’s long history, Iran has also experienced a long period of changes. From BC to AD, from modern times to modern times, the territory of Iran has changed many times in the turbulent historical trajectory. One dynasty after another has risen and subverted, and one city after another has been born and annihilated. It was during this changing regime that Iran moved its capital 32 times.

As early as around 3200 BC, human civilization appeared on this rugged land. A country called Elam was founded near the Tigris River. Its capital was also located very close to the water source - Susa. The location's proximity to the river and its relatively flat terrain made it a suitable capital city, but during years of struggle with surrounding nations it was overturned by the city-state of Assyria.

In 1501 AD, the Aries Dynasty was in turmoil, and the Safavid Dynasty was established. This dynasty also had several capitals, namely Tabriz, Qazwin and Isfahan. More than two hundred years later, Turkic tribes from northeastern Iran invaded, and the Afshar Dynasty was established. The Afshar dynasty, with Mashhad as its capital, continued to expand outwards and increase its sphere of influence. But at the same time, there were constant royal struggles within the dynasty, and there was no peace.

So why is the capital located in Tehran? And why has the dynasty changed over the years but the capital has remained the same?

Successfully "reached the top"

Before Tehran became the capital, it had always been a "remote mountain village" with a population of just over 20,000, and its economy could not be said to be very prosperous. So why did the Qajar dynasty set its capital here? Setting up camp in this place was actually the first emperor of the Qajar Dynasty who took a fancy to its geographical location.

This place is very close to the northern part of Iran, the core power circle of the Qajar Dynasty, and at the same time it can radiate to other parts of Iran. It can be attacked, retreated and defended. For the emperor who had just "taken office", this place was uniquely blessed.

Setting the capital here was originally based on political considerations, but after the capital was established, the ruling class and the new people gradually discovered that the climate here was much better than other places in Iran, although it was also hot and arid. , but compared to the drier and hotter surrounding areas, it is simply not that good. This was one of the reasons why the subsequent regime did not move the capital.

New concerns

Although Tehran has certain advantages in terms of climate, it is also not short of extreme weather such as high heat and heavy snowfall. Not only that, the remote Tehran happens to be located in an earthquake zone, and there is a risk of earthquakes breaking out at any time.

However, although the government has plans to move the capital, it does not have enough funds. Moreover, today's Tehran is no longer that small village that can be "abandoned" casually. This is the political center of Iran, where many large enterprises and cultural institutions are located. Moreover, the people also have deep cultural sentiments towards it. It is almost impossible to relocate immediately. Therefore, I had no choice but to "live here temporarily" first, and then make plans slowly. There was also a lot of helplessness behind this plan to move the capital.