Sultanabad

Sultanabad (Arak): The Legacy of Oversized Elegance

Arak, formerly known as Sultanabad, is the capital of Iran’s Markazi Province and one of the most important historic centers of Persian rug production. During the Qajar dynasty (1800s onward), Sultanabad gained international fame for its high-quality, oversize carpets that were exported to Europe and the United States. The region became a hub for foreign carpet companies who established weaving workshops here, capitalizing on the area’s highly skilled artisans.

The Sultanabad region includes several celebrated weaving villages such as Farahan, Sarouk, Moshkabad, Saraband, Moshtagh, Ghiassabad, and Lilian—each known for its distinct patterns and weaving techniques. Carpets from this area are often characterized by their oversized medallions, room-sized dimensions, and refined floral or curvilinear motifs. These rugs were designed to suit Western tastes while maintaining the integrity of Persian craftsmanship, making Sultanabad carpets some of the most sought-after antique Persian rugs in the global market.