Tabriz

The fourth largest city in Iran, Tabriz was originally the capital of Atropatene, named after Atropates, a general under Alexander the Great. During the early Islamic period the site was known for textile production and trade. From the 16th century to the 18th century, Tabriz changed hands several times between Îran and Turkey. The city became the center of the nationalist movement in 1908, and during World War I, it was occupied by Turkish and Îranian troops. Noted sites within the city are the Ark, a mosque built before 1322, and the Blue Mosque, built 1465-66.