Wonder in Qazvin

There is a lot to see in the city of Qazvin so, hop, get out there. First to the Chehel Sotun Palace, which is somewhat disappointing. The palace must have been huge but was largely demolished in 1945 to make two schools and a sports building. What remained is now a museum with a lot of calligraphy art. I also learned to calligraphy during my graphic education and I think it's nice to see, but it would be even better if I could read the characters too. Although, maybe not. The outside of the building could use some maintenance and I actually got bored pretty quickly. 

Another nice conversation with an Iranian who studied in Germany in the past, is now retired, but still speaks a good bit of German. As soon as people here hear 1 word of English, they become curious and want to start a chat. Of course many conversations are the same: where are you from, where are you going, what do you think of Iran, welcome to Iran, can I help you with something, can I offer you something. When I'm on the motorcycle, the questions usually start with: what does that motorcycle cost in the Netherlands, what do you earn, what kind of profession do you have, do you have a wife, do you have children and the conversation usually ends with a photo. I still find it heartwarming and always make time for a conversation and answer all questions honestly.

Anyway, a few blocks away is the Anthropology Musume or Qajar Bathhouse, which is also converted into a museum. A bit of an odd combination if you ask me. Anyway, the building is very beautiful and luckily the entrance fees are never more than a few euros.

A little disappointed, I leisurely walk back to the hotel when I come across Saraye Sa’do-Saltaneh. What an incredibly beautiful complex that is! Beautifully restored and a quiet oasis in the busy city center with nice galleries, shops and coffee shops. The whole exudes enormous creativity, something I rarely encounter here. 

On the way back to the hotel I try to take out insurance for the motorcycle in two local insurance offices, but we can't figure it out because of the language. Just at that moment, the internet is also down and the translation app cannot come to the rescue. Then no insurance.