The Pavilion of Iran

The Iranian participation at Expo 67 consisted of an exotic pavilion located on Île Sainte-Hélène.

The architectual style of the pavilion was inspired by ancient Iran, with beautiful tile columns serving as an example of Iranian decorative art.

Inside, the pavilion's colors and lighting sought to create an atmosphere that represented the spirit of Iran. Rich persian carpets formed a constant backdrop throughout the pavilion.

The pavilion's theme, "A Thousand and One Faces of Iran", presented the nation's past, present and future, on two floors of exhibits.

A section devoted to "Tradition" displayed archaeological treasures such as 3000-year old golden vases, 12th and 13th century bronzes, and hand painted ceramics.

In another section of the pavilion, the ancient Persian empire could be discovered through sumptuous displays of gold and silver objects, dishes, mirrors, chandeliers and jewels.

The oil industry was the key element in the exhibit devoted to modern Iran. Photographs and models of oil wells and refineries, as well as gas pipelines and chemical plants, illustrated this.

An extensive exhibit of photographs in the central hall of the pavilion showed the progress that Iran had made in such fields as health care, education, the (gradual) emancipation of women, and electoral reform.

Iranian craftsmen could be observed, working at looms creating the world-renowned Persian carpets. Iranian vodka, caviar and other specialties could be sampled on the patio's bar.

I can't help but imagine the wide-eyed awe of the typical small-town, church-going Québecois visitor of Expo, upon seeing this pavilion!

imagess: (1) naid.sppsr.ucla.edu/expo67/

(2-3-4) library and archives Canada
(5) DC Hillier
(6) Bill Dutfield