The ancient city of Qazvin held prominence over the ages due to its strategic location on the Silk Road, and even reigned supreme as the capital of the Persian Empire for much of the 16^th century. That glorious past gave the town its fair share of cultural monuments, not least of all, the sprawling renovated caravanserai that's now packed with beautiful shops and cafes. The town’s splendour might seem a bit subdued compared to some of Iran's other historical cities, but that's because Qazvin's heart remains lived-in. Between the colored motifs of the Jameh Mosque and the blue-tiled facades of handsome Al-Nabi Mosque, vibrant bazaars still occupy the cobbles. Add to that, the wooden pillars of the Chehel Sotun, the mysterious tombs of Saljuki royals and many such little treasures around, and it's easy to see why Qazvin tour guides are of use here. They will tell you though, that the real draws of visiting Qazvin lie outside of town, at the soaring Castle of the Assassins on the rugged tops of the Alborz and the beautiful landscapes of the Alamut Valley.