To Spain! Chapter 01: On the way again

Spain is currently experiencing a boom. Ask any tourism expert. We too set off to Southern Spain for our numismatic journey and saw many an interesting thing. But our first stop is still in France, in Nîmes.

Welcome to Iran! Part 14: Isfahan, or Half the World

The last episode of the numismatic diary brings us to Isfahan, whose beauty and diversity has led poets to say that “Isfahan is half the world.” And we visit this city not on just any day of the year, but on Newroz, the Iranian New Year, of all days…

Welcome to Iran! Part 13: Home at Zarathustra’s

The penultimate episode of the numismatic diary brings us to Yazd, the centre of the fire cult. We visit the towers of silence, the famous fire temple, and of course we can’t get around Nietzsche altogether…

Welcome to Iran! Part 12: At the Tomb of Cyrus the Great

This episode of the numismatic diary brings us to Pasargadae, the first capital of the Persian Empire and the last resting place of Cyrus the Great. Even the Greeks considered Cyrus a model ruler…

Welcome to Iran! Part 11: Persepolis! At last!

If ever there was a reason why I wanted to travel Iran, it was Persepolis, the capital of the Persians with its incredible Apadana. Finally the day has come. We are going to see the city of cities!

Welcome to Iran! Part 10: In the Sassanid capital

Bishapur, City of Shapur, was once the name of the Sassanid capital. It was founded by Shapur I in 266. Roman prisoners of war are said to have helped with the construction. Together with their Emperor Valerian they had been taken captive in the Battle of Edessa.