Tomb of Khwaju Kermani
Nestled within a garden in Shiraz, the tomb of Khwaju Kermani honours one of the great Persian poets of the 14th century. A place of literary remembrance, serene and authentic, to combine with the mausoleums of Hafez and Saadi.
In the heart of gardens bordering the Khoshk River in Shiraz rests Khwaju Kermani, a 14th-century Persian poet celebrated for his ghazals and masnavis. His tomb, unassuming and shaded, draws lovers of classical Persian literature and wanderers seeking a moment of peace away from the city's grand monuments.
What to see
The mausoleum presents itself as a modest structure, typical of tombs dedicated to Iranian poets: a burial chamber topped by a small dome, surrounded by a garden planted with ancient trees. The stone grave bears verses engraved by the poet himself. The atmosphere is contemplative, often frequented by Iranians who come to recite poetry.
History and context
Khwaju Kermani (circa 1290–1352) was born in Kerman but lived and worked in Shiraz, at the court of the Injuyids. A contemporary of Hafez, he influenced Persian lyric poetry through the richness of his imagery and the musicality of his verse. His most renowned work, the Haft Awrang, belongs to the tradition of romantic epics. Shiraz, a city of poets, has preserved this memorial to his legacy.
Highlights of the visit
The tombstone and its inscriptions
The verses engraved on the grave allow for direct engagement with Khwaju's poetry. Iranian visitors often pause here to recite softly, continuing a living tradition of connection to classical literature.
The surrounding garden
Mature trees and the shade they provide make this site a pleasant place to pause. The verdant setting contrasts with the mineral quality of Shiraz's grand monuments.
Photography tips
Morning light filtered through the trees offers the best conditions for photographing the tomb and its inscriptions. Avoid midday in summer, when light is harsh and shadows unflattering. Respect visitors in prayer or contemplation before raising your camera.
Location and access
The tomb is located in the north-western quarter of Shiraz, near the Khoshk River. It is accessible by taxi from the city centre. The site has minimal English-language signage; provide the Persian name (آرامگاه خواجوی کرمانی) to your driver. A visit here pairs naturally with other poetic tombs in Shiraz.
Nearby
- Tomb of Hafez (Hafezieh) — the most-visited mausoleum in Shiraz, dedicated to the great lyric poet of the 14th century.
- Tomb of Saadi — mausoleum of the poet Saadi, set in a garden with a basin, north of the city.
- Nasir ol-Molk Mosque — renowned for its colourful stained glass, in the historic centre of Shiraz.
- Citadel of Karim Khan — 18th-century fortress at the heart of Shiraz's bazaar.
Frequently asked questions
As with all sites in Iran, women must wear a headscarf and covering clothes. Men should avoid shorts. While not an active place of worship, observance of Islamic dress codes remains mandatory.
Yes. Both sites are in the same northern zone of Shiraz and are easily visited on the same day, on foot or by taxi. The tomb of Hafez is notably larger and more frequented.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant temperatures in Shiraz. Summer is very hot; if visiting in July–August, prioritise the early morning.
The site is modest: allow 20 to 30 minutes for a leisurely visit, longer if you wish to read the inscriptions or sit in the garden.
Signage is primarily in Persian. Note the name in Persian script to show your taxi driver or ask passers-by.
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