Dating back to distant antiquity Tabriz is the largest city in north-west Iran and was once the Persian capital. It’s proximity to the Azerbaijani border has affected its history – it was occupied several times by the Russians in the first half of the 20th century, including during both World Wars.

The ruined Ark (citadel) is a huge brick building from which criminals were hurled to their death and the Blue Mosque, built in 1465, although badly damaged by earthquakes still has some fantastic tile work. A good place to spend some time is El-Goli Park, it is popular with locals and on holidays families often go there on outings.