Tehran unveils subway station that blends Christian and Persian design

New Virgin Mary station sparks debate on religion, symbolism, and Iran’s image

Last updated: October 16, 2025 | 11:14

2 MIN READ

Tehran’s mayor, Alireza Zakani, described the project as a symbol of “the coexistence of divine religions” in the Iranian capital

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Dubai: Iran has unveiled a new subway metro station in Tehran named after the Virgin Mary, marking a rare gesture of interfaith recognition that has drawn both domestic and international attention.

Located near one of the capital’s main Armenian churches, the “Maryam Moghaddas” (Saint Mary) station features architecture inspired by both Christian and Persian traditions. Its ceiling mirrors the dome of the nearby Holy Virgin Church, using stainless steel structures and softly lit oval recesses, while the entrance bears inscriptions in Armenian and Persian reading, “In the name of God”.

Tehran’s mayor, Alireza Zakani, described the project as a symbol of “the coexistence of divine religions” in the Iranian capital. Writing on X, he said: “The design, featuring light, arches, and silence underground, combines the delicacy of church architecture with the calming geometry of Iranian design.”

Situated 25 metres below ground, the station lies within the western section of Maryam Park and is accessible via three escalators.

Officials say the decision reflects the Virgin Mary’s revered status in both Islam and Christianity. The move, which comes amid broader government efforts to showcase religious tolerance and cultural diversity, has sparked discussion about faith, symbolism, and Iran’s evolving public image.

While Christians form a small minority in Iran, the naming of the station marks an unprecedented step in the country’s public transport system, one that has resonated far beyond Tehran.

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Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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