Pearl Palace, also known as Shams Palace, is one of the distinctive historical buildings in Karaj, located in the Mehrshahr district. The palace was built during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, between 1966 and 1968, for Shams Pahlavi, the Shah’s sister. In terms of design and architecture, it is considered one of Iran’s most remarkable and unique buildings of the 20th century. Shams Palace was built on a large plot of land, with the main building covering approximately 2,500 square meters. The monument was officially listed as a National Heritage Site of Iran on February 1, 2003, under registration number 7067.
History of Shams Palace
Shams Pahlavi, the eldest daughter of Reza Shah and sister of Mohammad Reza Shah, chose Mehrshahr as her place of residence due to her asthma. As a result, the construction of a private residence for her in the area was commissioned. The palace was designed by William Wesley Peters, an architect associated with the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, and its design incorporated modern architectural concepts and forms inspired by nature.
Shams Palace was originally a private residence, where Shams Pahlavi and her family lived until 1979. Following the Iranian Revolution, the palace complex was used for various purposes, and over the following years, some of its furnishings and interior equipment were lost or damaged. Neglect and inadequate maintenance have also caused considerable damage to the main structure.
The Distinctive Architecture of Shams Palace
One of the most important features of Shams Palace is its distinctive architecture. The main building was inspired by natural forms and combines curved lines, domes, open spaces, and concrete structures. The overall form of the building has been compared to a manta ray enclosed by a shell, an idea that is also associated with the name “Morvarid Palace.”
Curved and spiral-shaped roofs, numerous skylights, and extensive glass surfaces play an important role in the design of the palace. Natural light entered the interior through these skylights and was reflected across different parts of the building. These features distinguish Shams Palace from many of Iran’s traditional historical palaces and place it firmly within the context of 20th-century modern architecture.
Different Sections of Shams Palace
At the time of its construction, Shams Palace was far more than a simple residential building. The complex included a variety of spaces and facilities, including a reception hall, Golden Hall, cinema and theater, billiards room, swimming pool, fountains, bedrooms, dining room, and administrative areas. The complex also featured an artificial lake surrounding the building, where boating was possible.
The Lake and Green Grounds of the Palace
One of the most attractive features of the Shams Palace complex is its extensive grounds and surrounding greenery. The artificial lake was located in the central area around the building, with its form complementing the palace’s curved architectural design. The spacious grounds were an important element of the original design, emphasizing the connection between architecture and nature.
In recent years, part of the complex’s green space has been placed under the management of the Municipality of Karaj, and improvement and restoration work has been carried out in the area.
Current Condition of Shams Palace
Over the years, Shams Palace has faced serious problems caused by deterioration, water infiltration, and insufficient maintenance, resulting in significant damage to the main building. Despite its status as a nationally registered heritage site, the complete preservation and restoration of the palace remains one of the major challenges facing this historic monument.
According to the latest report published in September 2026, private-sector investors have expressed their willingness to restore and renovate Shams Palace, and the legal procedures related to its transfer are currently being pursued. The report also states that most of the complex’s green space is under the management of the Municipality of Karaj and that the lake has been restored. However, the main structure of the palace still requires extensive restoration.
Address of Shams Palace in Karaj
Pearl Palace, or Shams Palace, is located in Mehrshahr, Karaj, on Eram Boulevard. The entrance to the complex is situated near the end of Eram Boulevard. The palace is considered one of the best-known historical landmarks in the Mehrshahr district.
How to Get to Shams Palace
By Private Car
If you are traveling from Tehran to Karaj, you can take the Tehran–Karaj Freeway and then continue toward Mehrshahr via the Karaj–Qazvin Freeway. Once you reach Mehrshahr, follow Eram Boulevard. Shams Palace is located along this boulevard, which is one of the main routes through Mehrshahr and provides convenient access to different parts of the district.
By Metro and Public Transportation
If you are traveling by metro, you can use Golshahr or Mohammadshahr Metro Stations in Karaj and then continue your journey by taxi or local buses toward Mehrshahr and Eram Boulevard.
Note: Access to the main building of Shams Palace may change due to its conservation status and ongoing restoration work. It is therefore recommended to check the latest visitor information before planning your visit.
Shams Palace can be considered one of the most distinctive historical buildings in Karaj. It brings together modern architecture, forms inspired by nature, extensive green spaces, and an important part of Iran’s contemporary history. Preserving and restoring this remarkable monument could play an important role in introducing the modern architectural heritage of Karaj and Alborz Province.
