Maragheh Observatory was constructed during the Hulaku Khan Dynasty (1217-1265) under the supervision of Khaje Nasir al-Din Tusi, an Iranian scientist, and astronomer. It was once considered as one of the most dignified observatories in the world which was located in the west part of Maragheh. The Observatory was the largest in its time and was composed of a series of structures occupying an area of 150 meters width and 350 meters length. One of these buildings was a dome that allowed the sun’s rays to pass through. Astronomers from across Persia, Anatolia, Syria and even China were gathered at the observatory and studied stars and trained students. During 1970s, many studies were carried out on the remnants of the observatory and eventually a spherical shield was built around it and now has become a symbol of Maragheh. Not only was Maraghe Observatory for the observation of the stars, but also it was a world-famous scientific organization that a wide range of studies were taught there, and the most famous scientists of that era were gathered there. Currently, Maragheh observatory has only a historical and symbolic aspect and it is accessible for visitors, and of course, there is no astronomical use of it. Finally, you should know that this monument was registered as a national heritage in 1985.
