The Life of Shah Abbas

This book examines the life of Shah Abbas. Shah Abbas I, known as Shah Abbas the Great, is the most famous king of the Safavid dynasty. He was the son of Shah Mohammad Khodabandeh and ruled Iran with authority for more than 42 years from 996 AH until his death. Shah Abbas ascended the throne when western and northwestern parts of Iran were occupied by the Ottoman Empire, and northeastern Iran’s Khorasan was raided by the Uzbeks. Within the country, the shah’s power had declined, and government officials sought their own interests, causing chaos. Shah Abbas prioritized these multiple problems and during his reign, elevated the Safavid dynasty to the peak of power, splendor, and greatness. He had an interest in architecture, music, painting, and poetry. Notable remnants of his era include Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Ali Qapu Palace, parts of Chehel Sotoun, Chaharbagh, and Si-o-Se Pol.