Safavid era

The Safavid era (1501–1736) was a significant period in Persian history when the Safavid dynasty established a strong, unified empire in Iran. They promoted Twelver Shi'a Islam as the state religion, shaping the nation’s identity. The Safavids fostered a rich cultural and artistic tradition, including exquisite architecture, painting, and textiles, while Turkmen and Persian influences merged. Their rule also involved military expansion and struggles with neighboring empires like the Ottomans and Uzbeks. The era played a crucial role in shaping Iran’s religious, cultural, and political landscape that persists today.