Monar Jonban (meaning shaking minarets) is An #ancient building, including a domed roof, plus two minarets that were later added to it, was built on the shrine of a mystic named Sufi Amu Abdollah Soqla in the eighth century AH. The building contains two 17-meter minarets, and its extraordinary feature is that by shaking one of the minarets, not only the other one but also the whole building moves.
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Menar Jonban (Shaking Minarets) Isfahan

4.4
·1k reviews·Isfahan, Iran

Witness the astonishing 'shaking minarets' of Menar Jonban, a medieval marvel where one tower's sway causes the other to vibrate in unison.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Around 12 PM

Demonstration times are key

CrowdMedium
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Monar Jonban (meaning shaking minarets) is An #ancient building, including a domed roof, plus two minarets that were later added to it, was built on the shrine of a mystic named Sufi Amu Abdollah Soqla in the eighth century AH. The building contains two 17-meter minarets, and its extraordinary feature is that by shaking one of the minarets, not only the other one but also the whole building moves.

Menar Jonban (Shaking Minarets) Isfahan

Best Time

Around 12 PM

Demonstration times are key

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the astonishing 'shaking minarets' of Menar Jonban, a medieval marvel where one tower's sway causes the other to vibrate in unison.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"The most notable feature of the building are the minarets, which both shake and sway when one of them is shook."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Demonstration Times

The shaking minarets only move during scheduled demonstrations, often around noon. Don't miss it!

🚗 Plan Your Transport

Located west of the city, factor in travel time. Taxis are common, but confirm prices.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Shaking Minarets

The Shaking Minarets

Main structure

Witness the astonishing phenomenon where one minaret's sway causes the other to vibrate in unison.

Tomb of Amu Abdullah

Tomb of Amu Abdullah

Base of the minarets

Explore the historical mausoleum of the Sufi ascetic, Amu Abdullah, built in the Ilkhanate era.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Shake

The famous 'shaking' demonstration at Menar Jonban doesn't happen constantly. Check the schedule beforehand, as it's often tied to specific times, typically around noon. Missing the demonstration means missing the main spectacle of this unique architectural marvel.

Location & Access

Menar Jonban is located a bit outside Isfahan's city center. Plan your transportation accordingly, whether by taxi or local transport. While it's a must-see, consider combining it with other nearby attractions to make the most of your travel time.

Best Times

When
Around 12 PM
Why
Demonstration times are key
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Not a bare inch #iran #ایران #shiraz #شیراز #isfahan #اصفهان #kashan #کاشان #yazd #یزد #tehran #تهران #travel #traveltok #traveltiktok #mosque #iraniantiktok
@alls_wellthatendswell
96.3K likes • 563.8K views

🎯 Check Demonstration Times

The shaking minarets only move during scheduled demonstrations, often around noon. Don't miss it! Reddit

🚗 Plan Your Transport

Located west of the city, factor in travel time. Taxis are common, but confirm prices. Reddit

Isfahan by Moonlight, Art, Water and Wonder 🌕 #Iran 🇮🇷 #ایران ©️ IG : @MSoltaniX
@iran
42.4K likes • 244.9K views
A kaleidoscope inside a mosque #mosque #muslim #muslimtok #muslimtiktok #iran #ایران #shiraz #شیراز #isfahan #اصفهان #kashan #کاشان #yazd #یزد #nasiralmulkmosque #travel #traveltiktok #traveltok #pinkmosque #pink
@alls_wellthatendswell
40K likes • 296.2K views

⏳ Be Patient for the Show

The caretaker initiates the shake. Sometimes there's a wait, but the spectacle is worth it. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sway

Bring your phone or camera to record the unique vibration. Video is best! TikTok

Isfahan Iran 🇮🇷 is my favorite city I’ve visited so far in the country. There is much life and unique architecture like I’ve never seen before. The Naqsh-e Jahan Square is truly mesmerizing with how massive it is and the amount of things encompassed inside of one area. From music gatherings underneath a bridge when the river dries up, to endless parks, shops and landmarks, this city really surpri...
@worldnomac
33.5K likes • 387.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Demonstration Times

The shaking minarets only move during scheduled demonstrations, often around noon. Don't miss it! Reddit

🚗 Plan Your Transport

Located west of the city, factor in travel time. Taxis are common, but confirm prices. Reddit

⏳ Be Patient for the Show

The caretaker initiates the shake. Sometimes there's a wait, but the spectacle is worth it. Reddit

📸 Capture the Sway

Bring your phone or camera to record the unique vibration. Video is best! TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Menar Jonban is celebrated as a unique architectural marvel, with the synchronized shaking of its minarets being the undeniable highlight. Visitors are captivated by this centuries-old engineering feat. While the demonstration is a must-see, it's crucial to check specific times, and some note a price disparity for foreign visitors.

"Menar Jonban: The Mystery of the Shaking Minarets
Located a bit outside the city center, Menar Jonban is a truly special architectural wonder. Its name, which means "shaking minarets," perfectly describes the unique and mysterious feature that makes this site so famous.
The monument consists of a tomb and two minarets. The real magic happens at specific times when a caretaker climbs up and shakes one of the minarets. As he does, not only does that one sway, but the other minaret and even the entire structure begins to vibrate in sync!
This incredible display of medieval engineering and physics is a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. The structure was built over the tomb of a Sufi ascetic, Amu Abdullah, and has captivated visitors for centuries.
If you want to witness this phenomenon for yourself, be sure to check the specific demonstration times before you go. It’s an unforgettable experience and a great story to tell when you get home!"

Sana Farzaneh

"They charge more than 7 times the price for foreigners and no longer have demonstrations of how the minarets move..."

haRf Riz

"A must to see!!! The Monar Jonban (meaning the shaking minarets), is a monument located in Isfahan, Iran. It was intended as a shrine, built over the grave of the Sufi ascetic Amu Abdullah Suqla. Construction on the building started in the era of the Ilkhanate, but it was finished during the Safavid Empire. The most notable feature of the building are the minarets, which both shake and sway when one of them is shook. If you want to witness this magical shake, make sure to be there at 12 pm. Highly recommended!"

Kia Kalantari

What People Like

Shaking minaret phenomenon
Unique engineering feat
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Demonstration timing
Foreigner pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Menar Jonban is located about 10 kilometers west of Isfahan's city center. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi. You can also inquire about local bus routes, though this might take longer. Confirm your route and fare with your driver beforehand. Reddit

While public transport options exist, they might not be as direct or frequent as taxis. For a more straightforward journey, especially if you're short on time, a taxi is generally recommended. Reddit

Many visitors opt for taxis for their directness and convenience. If you're on a budget, research local bus lines that serve the western part of the city. Reddit

Menar Jonban is located a considerable distance from Naqsh-e Jahan Square, typically a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. It's advisable to allocate sufficient travel time. TikTok

While ride-sharing apps are becoming more prevalent in Iran, their availability and reliability for reaching Menar Jonban might vary. It's best to have a backup plan, like a traditional taxi service. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entrance fee for Menar Jonban. Some reviews mention a significant price difference for foreigners compared to locals. It's advisable to check the current rates upon arrival. Reddit

Tickets are typically purchased on-site at Menar Jonban. There's usually no need to book in advance, but it's always a good idea to arrive a little before the demonstration times. Reddit

Menar Jonban's hours are generally aligned with the demonstration times. The site is usually open during daylight hours, with the main event happening around noon. Reddit

Yes, the shaking demonstration is the main attraction and usually occurs at specific times, often around 12 PM. It's crucial to confirm these times before your visit as they can change. Reddit

Friday is the weekend in Iran, and while many sites are open, hours might be different. It's best to verify the operating schedule for Fridays to avoid disappointment. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The primary attraction is the unique architectural phenomenon of the 'shaking minarets.' When one minaret is manually shaken, the other vibrates in sync, a feat of medieval engineering. Reddit+1

The demonstration itself is relatively short, focusing on the shaking of the minarets. However, the entire experience, including waiting for the caretaker and observing, can take about 30 minutes to an hour. TikTok

While there might not be formal guided tours, a caretaker is usually present to initiate the shaking demonstration and can offer basic information about the site. Reddit

As a historical and religious site, modest dress is recommended. This typically means covering shoulders and knees. TikTok

Visitors are generally not permitted to climb the minarets themselves. The demonstration involves a caretaker who climbs one of them to initiate the shaking. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed at Menar Jonban. It's a great opportunity to capture the unique swaying motion of the minarets. TikTok

Try capturing the minarets from different perspectives, including wide shots showing both, and closer shots focusing on the sway. The base of the structure also offers interesting architectural details. TikTok

Absolutely! Videos are highly recommended to truly capture the dynamic and unusual movement of the minarets. TikTok

While general photography is permitted, be mindful of any specific signs or requests from staff regarding sensitive areas within the tomb structure. TikTok

Mid-morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting. However, the demonstration itself is the main event, so timing your visit for that is key, regardless of the light. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Menar Jonban can be a fascinating stop for families, especially if children are curious about how things work. The visual spectacle of the shaking minarets is captivating and can spark conversations about physics and engineering. It's a relatively quick visit, making it manageable for younger attention spans. TikTok

Tip for families: Ensure you time your visit for the demonstration, as that's the main draw. The site is located a bit outside the city, so plan your transport to make the journey smooth. Pack some snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. The historical aspect of the tomb can also be a good learning opportunity about different cultures and beliefs. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Menar Jonban offers a unique opportunity to capture dynamic movement. The synchronized swaying of the minarets is best documented through video, so make sure your device is ready. TikTok

Photography tips: Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and the sway. Wide shots can capture both minarets, while closer shots can highlight the subtle vibrations. Consider the time of day for lighting, though the demonstration itself is the primary focus. The architectural details of the mausoleum also provide interesting photographic subjects. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel of the Shaking Minarets

Menar Jonban, meaning 'shaking minarets,' is a testament to ingenious medieval engineering. Built in the 14th century during the Ilkhanate era and completed during the Safavid Empire, this mausoleum houses the tomb of the Sufi ascetic Amu Abdullah. Its fame stems from a unique architectural feature: when one of the two minarets is manually shaken, the other minaret, approximately 10 meters away, begins to sway in perfect, simultaneous oscillation. This phenomenon has baffled and fascinated visitors for centuries, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of physics and structural dynamics. Reddit+1

The exact mechanism behind the synchronized shaking remains a subject of intrigue. Theories suggest it involves the precise weight distribution, the flexibility of the materials used, and the specific way the structure was designed to resonate. Some accounts mention that shaking the left minaret causes the right to sway, but shaking the right does not affect the left as much, adding another layer to the mystery. Reddit This intricate design ensures that the entire structure vibrates, creating a visible and palpable effect. Reddit

While the engineering is the star, the site also holds historical and spiritual significance as the resting place of Amu Abdullah. The experience of witnessing the minarets sway is often described as surreal and unforgettable, making Menar Jonban a must-visit for anyone interested in unique historical sites and architectural wonders. TikTok+1

Visiting Menar Jonban: What Travelers Say

Travelers often describe Menar Jonban as a 'truly special architectural wonder' and a 'must to see.' The highlight for most is witnessing the caretaker initiate the shaking of the minarets, a spectacle that never fails to impress. Many emphasize the importance of checking demonstration times, as the 'shaking' doesn't happen continuously and is often scheduled around noon. Reddit+1

Some visitors have noted that the site is located a bit outside the city center, requiring specific transportation arrangements. While the experience is generally positive, a few reviews mention a significant price difference for foreigners, which is a point to be aware of. Despite this, the unique nature of the shaking minarets makes it a memorable stop on any Isfahan itinerary. TikTokReddit

Photography enthusiasts find Menar Jonban a fantastic spot to capture unique motion. Videos are particularly recommended to showcase the synchronized swaying. The historical context of the tomb of Amu Abdullah adds another layer of interest for those keen on history and Sufi traditions. TikTok+1

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