For the past few decades, travel restrictions have meant the Middle Eastern country has been largely shut off from Western visitors, but as visa sanctions are lifted following a landmark nuclear deal, the local tourism industry is hoping for bumper visitor numbers.
And with its rich culture and history, it's not hard to see why Iran is listed as one of the top traveldestinations of 2016.
Among the standout aspects of the nation is its beautiful ancient architecture, with the cities and towns crammed with ornate and eye-catching mosques, public baths and markets.
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The elaborate ceiling in Abbasian Historical House (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
The famous acoustic ceiling in the music room of Ali Qapu palace in Iran's Isfahan Province (Photo: eric lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
The Muslim Shiite People Hall Of The Shah-e-cheragh Mausoleum in Shiraz (Photo: eric lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption]And unlike in many other countries, the roof is far from an afterthought, with many ceilings built to be the centrepiece of the building.
Many of the tile designs showcase intricate geometric patterns that date back several centuries.
French photographer Eric Lafforgue has travelled the country to share the incredible ceilings of indoor markets, mosques and bath houses with the world.
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Three domes moshtaghie includes intricate patterns[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
The ceiling in Hamman-e Vakil Bath Isfahan was constructed in the mid-1700s (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
The Boroujerdi House (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
An elevator chair is used to clean the mosaic glasses in the Shah-e-cheragh Mausoleum (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption]These include the ceiling of Hamman-e Vakil Bath Isfahan, an old public bath in Shiraz which was constructed in the mid-1700s.
Other must-sees include the intricate and elaborate patterns and show-stopping stainless glass dome in the Boroujerdi House.
And you'll want your camera handy to capture the mesmerizing ceiling of the Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse roof and terrace.
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The ceiling in The Old Bazaar in Tabriz is a maze of roofed brick buildings and enclosed areas (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
Sultan Amir Ahmad Bathhouse Roof And Terrace (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
The ganjali khan hammam (Photo: eric lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption][caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="615"]
Behesht Palace boasts this incredible ceiling (Photo: Eric Lafforgue/Exclusivepix Media)[/caption]Ganjali khan hammam's elaborately patterned ceiling is another sight that you won't want to miss, and it's sure to rack up Instagram likes.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises that British nationals do face greater risks than others, particularly when travelling alone, and recommends travelling as part of an organised tour and keeping a low profile.
So if you're heading to Iran make sure your smartphone is fully charged - and remember to look up.
