Tehran opens metro station dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Interior of the new “Holy Virgin Mary” metro station in Tehran. Photo: eghtesadonline

On October 14, 2025, a new metro station named “Holy Virgin Mary” (Maryam-e-Moqaddas) was inaugurated in Tehran. It is located near the Cathedral of St. Sarkis, the main church of the Armenian community in the Iranian capital, reports Eghtesad Online.

The station’s interior features bright colors and Christian symbolism – mosaic icons of the Virgin Mary and architectural elements inspired by Armenian churches. Situated just a two-minute walk from St. Sarkis Cathedral, it is expected to become an important point of access for Tehran’s Armenian and Christian communities, improving connectivity to their cultural and religious centers.

Iranian media have noted that the opening of a station with such a name is seen as a gesture of respect for the country’s religious and cultural diversity. In Shiite tradition, Maryam (Mary) is also revered as a saint and the mother of the prophet Isa (Jesus); therefore, the use of her name in a public space is not controversial and is viewed as a symbol of respect toward followers of other Abrahamic religions.

Social media users described the station’s opening as an example of cultural dialogue and mutual respect between Muslims and Christians.

The official account of the Iranian Embassy in the United Kingdom on X (Twitter) also confirmed the event, writing: “Tehran Municipality has opened a new metro station named Maryam-e Moghaddas (Saint Mary).”

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Iran abolished the mandatory hijab requirement for women.

Read also