History
Presented as a gift from the mayor of Dushanbe to the city of Boulder in 1987, the Dushanbe Teahouse was handmade by 40 artisans from Tajikistan over a period of two years. The Teahouse was built using craft methods that were passed down from generation to generation, such as intricate detailing, the repetition of traditional Persian patterns, and the use of nature. Once complete, the Teahouse was deconstructed, packed into crates, and shipped to Boulder, erected as a symbol of friendship and cultural exploration, and opened to the public in 1998. Today, the magnificent Teahouse stands as a reminder to everyone to value cultural diversity, international friendship, and global cooperation.
The Teahouse
In keeping with the tradition that teahouses are usually alongside or close to bodies of water, the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse rests on the banks of Boulder Creek and is surrounded by elaborate rose gardens – another Tajik tradition - that were donated and planted by the Boulder Valley Rose Society.
Design elements on the exterior of the teahouse include eight exquisitely painted ceramic tiles made by Victor Zabolotnikov, displaying the intricate patterns of the ‘Tree of Life’ enclosed by a mihrab motif (the specialized niche in a mosque which indicates the direction of Mecca).
The interiors of the Teahouse boast intricately designed hand-carved cedar pillars and white panels designed and executed by Kodir Rakhimov, which frame contemporary oil paintings, traditional geometric plaster carvings and handmade Tajikistan furniture. Originally built, hand carved using century-old methods, and painted in Tajikistan, the ceiling of the Teahouse is one of its best features with an array of intricate hand painted patterns that are typical of traditional of Persian Art.
A central pool and fountain known as the ‘Fountain of the Seven Beauties’ is surrounded by seven bronze sculptures by Ivan Milashevich that reflect the seven women from the 12th-century poem, ‘The Seven Beauties.’ Completed in 1197 A.D., the ‘Seven Beauties’ is the fourth poem from Nizami Ganjavi’s ‘Khamsa,’ which relay the stories and adventures of Shah Bahram Goirr, the son of Yargourd the First who hailed from the Sasanids Dynasty. The poet uses these experiences to explore the themes of morality, social justice, cultural values and appreciation of nature.
Traditional Afternoon Tea
The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse serves a traditional afternoon tea every day, complete with beautifully dressed tables with English-style white linens, china, and silverware. A mouth-watering three-tier tower of decadent sweet and savory treats is offered, including freshly baked homemade scones with jam and cream, cucumber finger sandwiches, delicious cakes and muffins, various filled pastry pockets and more. A range of imported teas and coffee is served, along with different accompaniments such as lemon and sugar.
Catering and Events
The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse can be rented for private parties and other functions, as well as the intimate Tea Garden and peaceful Creekside Patio. The Teahouse offers a variety of specialty menus, including custom ethnic cuisine, vegetarian and vegan fare and can cater for parties large and small.
Other special events held at the Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse include the Annual Rocky Mountain Tea Festival, which has been running for 18 years and offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about premium, loose leaf teas from around the world. The Festival features seminars, workshops, a small bazaar a Tea Dinner and Children’s Tea Parties.
Another fantastic event is the Dim Sum and Oolong Tea Afternoon Service, which involves a seven-course small plate dinner of delicious Dim Sum accompanied by high quality imported loose leaf oolong teas.
Visitor Information
The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse is located at 1770 13th Street in Boulder and is open to the public for breakfast, lunch, high tea and dinner from Monday through Friday, and brunch, high tea, and dinner on Saturdays and Sundays.
Back to: Things to Do in Boulder, CO
1770 13th Street Boulder, CO 80302, website, Phone: 303-442-4993, Map
Conclusion
The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse is a beautiful handcrafted Persian teahouse from Dushanbe in Tajikistan. Resting on the banks of Boulder Creek with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountain Foothills, the handmade building was a gift from the mayor of Dushanbe, Maksud Ikramov to the city of Boulder and is considered one of Boulder’s most popular tourist attractions. The elegant and authentic Persian teahouse serves a menu of international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, as well as a traditional afternoon tea that features over 80 imported teas. The Teahouse also features a lovely creek-side patio and a full-service bar.
