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Culture of Iran |
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The culture of Iran (Persian: فرهنگ ایران) or culture of Persia[1][2][3] is among the most influential in the world. Iran (Persia) is widely considered to be one of the cradles of civilization.[4][5][6][7] Due to its dominant geopolitical position in the world, it has heavily influenced peoples and cultures situated of Southern Europe Eastern Europe to the west; Central Asia to the north; and South Asia, East Asia, and Southeast Asia to the east.[4][5][8] Iranian history has had a significant influence on the world through art, architecture, poetry, science and technology, medicine, philosophy, and engineering.
An eclectic cultural elasticity has been said to be one of the key defining characteristics of the Iranian identity and a clue to its historical longevity.[9] Furthermore, Iran's culture has manifested itself in several facets throughout the history of the Iranian Plateau as well as of the South Caucasus, West Asia, and Central Asia
Persian cuisine is characterized by the use of lime and saffron, the blend of meats with fruits and nuts, a unique way of cooking rice, and Iranian hospitality. Food is delicate in flavour and appearance, heavy in meat, dairy, and herbs, and not hot or spicy. An emphasis on sour and sweet is found within this cuisine. Many recipes date back to ancient times; Iran's historical contacts have assisted in the exchange of ingredients, flavours, textures, and styles with various cultures ranging from the Mediterranean Sea region to China, some of whom retain these influences today.