Iran, located in the Middle East, is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and significant geopolitical importance. With a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern developments, Iran offers a fascinating study of contrasts and continuities. Read more about Iran.
Iran Trivia Quiz Questions
- What is a traditional form of Persian wrestling called?
Sumo
Varzesh-e Bastani
Judo - What is the dominant religion in Iran?
Christianity
Islam
Hinduism - What is the ancient Persian religion called?
Zoroastrianism
Buddhism
Christianity - Which mountain range spans across Iran?
Himalayas
Andes
Alborz - Iran is known for which type of caviar?
Salmon
Beluga
Trout - What is the capital city of Iran?
Tehran
Istanbul
Kabul - Which famous poet and philosopher was from Iran?
Rumi
Shakespeare
Confucius - Which mountain is the highest peak in Iran?
Mount Ararat
Mount Damavand
Mount Everest - Which Iranian island is known for its unique wind-catchers?
Kish
Qeshm
Hormuz - Which sea lies to the north of Iran?
Black Sea
Caspian Sea
Red Sea - What is Iran’s national currency?
Rial
Dinar
Lira - What is the dominant sect of Islam in Iran?
Sunni
Shia
Sufi - Which empire was based in Iran?
Ottoman Empire
Persian Empire
Roman Empire - What is the official language of Iran?
Arabic
Persian
Turkish - What is the ancient Persian board game similar to chess?
Shatranj
Go
Checkers - What was Iran formerly known as?
Mesopotamia
Persia
Babylon - Which desert covers much of Iran?
Sahara
Gobi
Dasht-e Kavir - Which Iranian city is famous for its Persian gardens?
Isfahan
Shiraz
Tabriz - What is the famous Iranian rice dish called?
Biryani
Sushi
Chelow Kabab - What is the traditional Persian New Year called?
Nowruz
Diwali
Songkran - In which city is the Golestan Palace located?
Tehran
Mashhad
Yazd - In which year did the Islamic Revolution occur in Iran?
1979
1989
1999 - Which body of water forms Iran’s southern border?
Indian Ocean
Persian Gulf
Mediterranean Sea - Which ancient site in Iran was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire?
Persepolis
Machu Picchu
Angkor Wat - Iran is one of the world’s largest producers of which fruit?
Bananas
Saffron
Pistachios
The Iran trivia quiz answers are at the end of the page.
More About Iran
Geography
Iran is in Western Asia, bordered by Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, and Turkey. It also has coastlines along the Caspian Sea to the north and the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman to the south. The country’s terrain includes mountains such as the Zagros and Alborz ranges, vast deserts like the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut, and fertile plains along the coastlines. Iran experiences a diverse climate, from arid and semi-arid in most areas to subtropical along the Caspian coast.
Demographics
Iran has a population of approximately 85 million people. The population is ethnically diverse, with Persians making up the majority, followed by Azeris, Kurds, Lurs, Balochs, Arabs, etc. The official language is Persian (Farsi); other languages such as Azeri, Kurdish, and Arabic are also spoken. Islam is the predominant religion, with the majority being Shia Muslims and a minority of Sunni Muslims, Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians.
History
Iran boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was home to several powerful empires, including the Achaemenid, Parthian, and Sassanian Empires. In the 7th century, the region was conquered by Arab Muslims, leading to the spread of Islam. Iran later saw the rise of the Safavid Dynasty in the 16th century, which established Shia Islam as the state religion. In the 20th century, Iran experienced significant political changes, including the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which transformed it into an Islamic Republic.
Government and Politics
Iran is an Islamic Republic with a unique political system that combines elements of democracy and theocracy. The Supreme Leader holds significant power over the state. The President is elected by popular vote and handles executive functions. The political landscape features several parties and factions, but all must align with the principles of the Islamic Republic.
Economy
Iran’s economy is a mixed and transition economy with a large public sector. The country relies heavily on its oil and gas exports, making it one of the world’s largest oil producers. Other significant industries include agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Iran has a substantial GDP despite facing international sanctions and has shown resilience through diversification efforts in recent years.
Culture
Iranian culture is a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and arts. The country is known for its Persian literature, poetry, and architecture. Celebrations such as Nowruz (Persian New Year) highlight the cultural calendar and religious festivals like Ramadan and Ashura. Persian cuisine, famous for its diverse flavours and ingredients, includes kebabs, rice pilaf, and stews.
Education and Health
Iran has a well-established education system with high literacy rates. Primary and secondary education is compulsory, and the country boasts numerous universities and research institutions. The healthcare system in Iran is comprehensive, with both public and private sectors providing services. The government has made significant strides in medical research and healthcare delivery, ensuring a relatively high standard of health for its population.
Infrastructure
Iran’s infrastructure includes an extensive network of roads, railways, and airports. Major cities like Tehran, Isfahan, and Mashhad are well-connected. The country also has significant communication networks, with widespread internet and mobile phone coverage, though access to some international services is restricted.
Environmental Issues
Iran faces several environmental challenges, including air pollution, water scarcity, deforestation, and soil degradation. The government has initiated various conservation efforts to address these issues, such as reforestation projects and improving water management systems. Protected areas and national parks also play a role in preserving Iran’s natural heritage.
Tourism
Iran is a country of great historical and cultural significance, offering a wealth of tourist attractions. Visitors can explore ancient cities like Persepolis, the beautiful mosques of Isfahan, and the vibrant bazaars of Tehran. The country also offers natural wonders like the Alborz Mountains and the Caspian Sea coastline. Tourists should be aware of local customs and dress codes to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.
Iran Trivia Quiz Answers
- Varzesh-e Bastani
- Islam
- Zoroastrianism
- Alborz
- Beluga
- Tehran
- Rumi
- Mount Damavand
- Qeshm
- Caspian Sea
- Rial
- Shia
- Persian Empire
- Persian
- Shatranj
- Persia
- Dasht-e Kavir
- Shiraz
- Chelow Kabab
- Nowruz
- Tehran
- 1979
- Persian Gulf
- Persepolis
- Pistachios