Pictures of the Supreme Leaders, past (Ayatollah Khomeini) and present (Ayatollah Ali Khamanei) reign down everywhere.

Azadi Tower, translated to "Freedom Tower" originally built in 1971 to commemorate the 2,500th anniversary of the Persian empire, it is more recently recognized as the center of protests following the June 12th hotly contested Presidential elect

Mt Damavand, not only Iran's highest peak, but at 15,000 feet, it is also the highest in the Middle East. A potentially active volcano. Taken from the window in flight from Tehran to Mashhad.

Highway leads under the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad. The seven courtyards of the complex cover almost 4,000,000 sq ft and still expanding, soon to be the largest religious complex in the world.

Since it is such a devoutly religious site, women are required to cover with the "chador," a thin black veil that covers everything but the face and hands. I must admit, it was somewhat intriguing wandering through the courtyards in the dramat

A few more of our group sporting the curiously fashionable chador. We were hamming it up for the cameras when these three older Iranian ladies showed up (center and rear) and wanted in on the action.

Mashhad is considered the second most holy city in Islam, second only to Mecca. Twenty million Muslims make a pilgrimage to Imam Reza site each year. No photos inside the complex, so this is taken through an archway.

The entrance to Mashhad's Grand Bazaar.

Berberis, or "barberries," which taste like a very tart cranberry. Often sprinkled over rice served with roast chicken.

If one is in the market for a nice silk scarf, Iran certainly has a broad selection.

Apparently, a black chador is not just a black chador, as there are many styles and designs to choose from. Since hair should be covered, you gotta love the daring curls on the foreheads.

A variety of legumes for sale in the Mashhad market.