A Metro Station in Tehran Honors Mary
In the heart of Tehran, a new metro station stands out for its unique design. The Maryam Moghaddas station is not your typical transit hub. It feels more like stepping into a place of worship, with its arched ceilings and religious artwork. The name Maryam Moghaddas translates to "Holy Mary" in Persian. This is a nod to the Virgin Mary, a figure revered in both Christianity and Islam.
A Unifying Figure
The station's artworks depict Mary in prayer, with a white dove above her head, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. Another piece shows Jesus Christ watching over passengers. This station is a reminder that Mary is a unifying figure in Iran, where she is widely respected across different religions. Her name, Maryam, is also one of the most popular female names in the country.
Art and Respect
The artist behind these works, Tina Tarigh Mehr, explained that every detail was designed to show respect for other religions, especially Christianity. The dove represents the Holy Spirit, while the olive tree symbolizes peace and friendship. This station is part of Tehran's effort to showcase the coexistence of different faiths.
A Multicultural Country
Iran is a multicultural country where Shiite Islam is the official religion. However, the constitution recognizes other minority religions like Sunni Islam, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, and Christianity. These religions have their own representatives in the Iranian parliament. Christianity has a long history in this region, predating the rise of Islam.
The Christian Community
The exact number of Christians in Iran is unclear, with estimates ranging from 130,000 to one million. In Tehran, the Saint Sarkis Cathedral of the Armenian Apostolic Church is a prominent symbol of the city's Christian community. The new metro station, which took a decade to build, is located near this historic cathedral.
Expanding Horizons
Tehran's metro system has been expanding since its first line opened in 1999. Today, the capital has around 160 operational stations. Many of these stations are known for their artistic designs, blending modern architecture with traditional Persian elements. The Maryam Moghaddas station is just one example of how art and religion can come together in public spaces.