I had the joy of exploring the “Persia: Ancient Iran and the Classical World” exhibit currently on display at the Getty Villa in Malibu — a museum whose gorgeous grounds I haven’t had a chance to explore until now.
According to the Getty Villa’s website, this exciting exhibition “explores the artistic and cultural connections between the rival powers of Iran, Greece, and Rome” through “royal sculpture, spectacular luxury objects, religious images, and historical documents assembled from major museums in the United States, Europe, and the Middle East.”
The exhibition also has an immersive film presentation which explores Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of Achaemenid Persia. However, the first available showing was three hours after the time of our scheduled visit. Since I’ve been to the real Persepolis several times (I try to go every time I’m in the Islamic Republic of Iran), I didn’t mind passing it up.
The exhibit is well-curated, and since Los Angeles has such a significant Persian population it was nice to see the signage offered in English and Persian.
After viewing objects from Persepolis, Susa, and beyond, we headed to Tehrangeles for Persian food to continue the theme of the day.
Feasting on my favorite dishes — fesenjoon and ghormeh sabzi — was the perfect way to end our very fun and full day of adventure. Highly recommend!
