For more than three millennia Iran, or Persia as it was formerly called, was a melting pot of civilizations. Under Cyrus the Great, Persia was the center of the world's first empire, which stretched from the Mediterranean to Pakistan. Subsequent invasions by the Greeks, Arabs, Mongols and Turks have fed the nation with an amazingly rich cultural and historical diversity. The Islamic Revolution in 1979, and the subsequent Iran-Iraq war, reduced tourism to a trickle. Since 1990, however, travelers are rediscovering the attractions of a country that has played - and still plays - a significant role in the history of the world. Helen Loveday's Iran provides a fascinating illumination of both ancient Persia and modern Iran.

* Insight into what has made Iran into one of the region's major powers

* Fascinating account of an early center of civilization

* Written by authoritative Farsi-speaking archaeologist

* Detailed account of the country's history, geography and culture

* Introduction to Islamic art and architecture

* Special account of pre-Islamic and Islamic religion essential to full understanding of the country

* Extensive bibliography of recommended background reading