One of the first places and promenades which were built at the beginning of the 17th century was a wonderfully planned boulevard called Chahar Bagh Ave. (The four orchards).
The original Chahar Bagh Ave. was about six kilometers long. A very wide street, with a canal of flowing water in the center, and two rows of beautiful tall plane trees.
The Chahar Bagh was surrounded by beautiful orchards (fruit gardens). It was a very pleasant promenade street.
Chahar Bagh consisted of three parts; Central Chahar Bagh started from present Municipality, stretched to the Allah Verdi Khan Bridge. The upper Chahar Bagh began from the Allah Verdi Khan Bridge to the South Mountain and the lower Chahar Bagh, from present Municipality to Shohada Square.
During the Safavid dynasty, beautiful orchards were built on the west side of Chahar Bagh Ave. Royal palaces were constructed from Chahar Bagh Ave to the Naghshe Jahan (Imam) square.
Residential areas have begun from the eastern part of Imam square. Not only Chahar Bagh Ave. but also orchards and beautiful palaces that were built in centers of gardens were beautifully designed. Travelers who visited Isfahan have explained the Chahar Bagh Ave. as one of the most beautiful streets in the world.
One day per week was allocated to women. Only women were permitted to promenade in Chahar Bagh and could spend their time shopping.
During the Qajar dynasty, even trees of this street were cut and sold and replanted. Chahar Bagh lost its beauty and glory during the Qajar dynasty. Isfahan was highly and carelessly expanded during the 20th century. Historic gardens were destroyed and converted into shops and houses. Only some parts of the two gardens have remained. The Chehel Sotoun garden and the Hasht Behesht garden (Bolbol).
Beauties of Isfahan Safavid gardens names have remained in traveler’s books. Today Chahar Bagh is used as one of the shopping centers. The importance and glory of this avenue are vanishing.