Tehran, a metropolis where every corner holds new secrets and wonders to discover, this time invites you to a different world—a world where the boundary between reality and imagination fades away and the laws of physics are playfully defied. Roya Park Tehran, the first and largest museum of optical illusions in Iran, has created a unique experience of art, science, and entertainment within the heart of the Darabad Nature and Wildlife Museum complex. This astonishing collection, designed with over 100 captivating artworks and six diverse sections, offers an unparalleled opportunity to capture memorable moments and create photographs beyond imagination.
Introduction and History
Roya Park Tehran is one of the newest and most unique recreational attractions in the capital, which opened in April 2019 within the Darabad Nature and Wildlife Museum complex. This collection, which holds the title of Iran’s first optical illusion museum and one of the largest of its kind in the Middle East, was designed and built by Iranian specialists under the supervision of “Saleh Sokhandan,” an artist known as “Mr. Optical Illusion of Iran.” With over 100 exciting artworks and six different sections, Roya Park offers a unique combination of art, science, and entertainment for all age groups.
What sets Roya Park apart from other theme parks is its engagement of all five human senses and the integration of Iranian culture and tradition into its design. In this collection, visitors become the main actors in each section, and as they move through different spaces, the line between reality and imagination blurs. Roya Park is located alongside the stunning Darabad Nature and Wildlife Museum and Human Park, making a visit to all three complexes a complete and multi-dimensional experience.
Different Sections of Roya Park
The 3D Section
The 3D Section is the first space you encounter upon entering Roya Park. This section, which begins with the slogan “I am happiness itself,” includes two parts: Iran and International. In the Iranian section, scenes from mythological stories such as Arash the Archer, Khayyam, and the Lion and the Sun are depicted, while the International section features forest landscapes and the city of Venice. By positioning yourself at the right angle, you can create 3D-effect photographs and imagine yourself in situations beyond reality.
The Infinity Section
The Infinity Section (Mirror Room) offers a magical experience of endless image reflections in mirrors. Two quadrilateral and hexagonal rooms covered in mirrors create a space where you lose your real image and experience the feeling of being immersed in an endless world. The slogan “Today happiness is my choice” is inscribed on the walls of this section, conveying a positive atmosphere to visitors.
The Perspective Section
The Perspective Section is where the logic of dimensions is challenged. In this space, objects appear larger or smaller than reality depending on your viewing angle. One of the most notable works in this section is the Iranian cheetah painting, designed with hundreds of colored pencils suspended in the air, which transforms into the shape of Iran’s map as your viewing angle changes. The Ames Room is also located in this section, which with its unique design, displays height differences in a way that separates reality from perception.
The Gravity Section
The Gravity Section (Upside Down Room) is one of the most popular and challenging sections of Roya Park. A kitchen and a living room have been designed upside down, as if people are hanging from the ceiling and the world has been turned upside down. You might feel a bit dizzy at first, but it will undoubtedly be a very exciting experience, and photography in these spaces will yield extraordinary results.
The Trick Section
The Trick Section features optical illusion artworks that create a unique experience by playing with your mind. One of the most fascinating works in this section is the “Fakir’s Staff,” where by standing in front of it, your photo is captured in a way that makes you appear suspended between the ground and the air.
The Dark Section
The Dark Section is the final stop on this amazing journey. The wall paintings in this section are only visible under UV light, taking visitors on a journey through galaxies and the solar system, forests and ocean waves, and finally into the underwater world. In this section, you can also see the famous submarine from “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” up close.
Welfare and Service Facilities
Considering visitors’ needs, Roya Park provides a variety of welfare amenities. The complex includes a café, restaurant, and a professional photography studio. In the photography studio, visitors can have professional photos taken of their experience and even have images printed on mugs or T-shirts. A gift shop is also available in the complex. Additionally, green spaces and benches for visitors to rest have been placed throughout the park grounds.
One of the important features of Roya Park is the ability to use your personal camera in all spaces. However, for higher quality photos, you can seek help from the complex’s professional photographers, which comes with an additional cost. The park has a dedicated parking lot for the convenience of visitors arriving by personal vehicle. A prayer room has also been built in the complex to meet the spiritual needs of visitors.
Address and Access
North Entrance: Tehran, Bahonar Street, Darabad Street, end of Museum Street, Darabad Wildlife Museum Complex, Human Park, south side of the brick spherical building
South Entrance: Tehran, Sabari Street (Ajodanieh), Ebrar Alley
Access by Private Car:
To use the north entrance, head north from one of the streets of Ajodanieh, Bahonar (Niavaran), or Oshan and enter Darabad Street. At the end of Museum Street, you will see the directional signs for Roya Park.
To use the south entrance, go to the northern end of Ajodanieh Street and enter the Darabad Museum complex through Ebrar Alley.
Access by Public Transportation:
Metro: The nearest station is Nobonyad Station (Tehran Metro Line 3). After exiting, take taxis heading to Darabad or Ajodanieh to reach the complex. Tajrish Metro Station is another option, accessible via line taxis or Tajrish-Darabad buses.
Bus: Take the BRT line from Rah-Ahan to Tajrish Square, and from there take the Tajrish-Darabad buses to the beginning of Museum Street.
