Shiraz'

Shiraz', a city of Persia and capital of the province of Fars, much celebrated in Persian poetry for its climate, its wine and roses, and its beautiful gardens, is situated in a broad plain, 115 miles ENE. of Bushire and 35 miles SW. of the ancient Persepolis (q.v.). It is enclosed by ruined walls, and previous to the earthquakes contained many splendid mosques, bazaars, caravanserais, and other public buildings. The place has now a mean and ruined appearance, and is greatly neglected. The wine of Shiraz, which is very strong and resembles Tokay, is, however, still famous throughout the East. Rose-water is prepared in large quantities. Inlaid articles in wood and metal, glass, and woollens are made here. The city was founded in the 8th century, and from its beautiful situation and charming climate became a favourite resort of the Persian princes. In 1812 a destructive earthquake laid a large portion of it in ruins, and another in 1824, which cost the lives of 4000 of the inhabitants, completed the wreck of its prosperity. It was, however, rebuilt, and numbered 40,000 people, when a third and more terrible visitation, in April 1853, laid almost the whole town again in ruins, and caused the death of 10,000 people. It has since been partially rebuilt in a somewhat inferior style, and its pop. is now estimated at 30,000. The tombs of the poets Hafiz and Sádi, both natives of the town, exist in the vicinity.