Asia: Iran Geography



Iran is a country located in the Middle East, bordering Iraq, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. It has a total area of 1,648,195 square kilometers and is the eighteenth largest country in the world. Iran is a land of great geographic diversity, from the snow-capped mountains of the Alborz range in the north to the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman in the south. The country is divided into five major regions: the Caspian Sea region, the Alborz Mountains, the Central Plateau, the Persian Gulf region, and the Zagros Mountains.

The Caspian Sea region is located in the northern part of Iran and is home to the Caspian Sea, the largest lake in the world. This region is characterized by its lush green forests, wetlands, and rivers. The Alborz Mountains, located in the northern part of the country, form a natural barrier between the Caspian Sea region and the Central Plateau. This area is home to Mount Damavand, the highest peak in Iran and the Middle East.

The Central Plateau is located in the center of the country and is home to the capital, Tehran. This region is characterized by its arid climate and is the most populated area in Iran. The Persian Gulf region is located in the south of the country and is home to the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman. This region is characterized by its coastal climate and its many ports. The Zagros Mountains, located in the western part of the country, is home to the country's mountain ranges and is the source of many of Iran's rivers.

Iran is a land of great cultural and religious diversity, with the majority of the population being Shia Muslims. The country is also home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Kurds, Azeris, Turkmens, Balochs, and Arabs. The official language of Iran is Persian, although many other languages are spoken in the country, including Azerbaijani, Kurdish, and Arabic.

Iran is one of the world's most important oil producing countries, with the majority of the country's oil reserves located in the Persian Gulf region. The country is also home to a variety of mineral resources, including copper, iron ore, and coal. Agriculture is also an important part of the Iranian economy, with the country producing wheat, rice, fruits, vegetables, and livestock. Tourism is an increasingly important part of the Iranian economy, with the country's ancient sites, monuments, and cultural attractions drawing in millions of visitors each year.