Shiraz is a major city located in southwestern Iran. It serves as the capital of Fars province, a region historically identified by the exonym Persia proper. As of 2021, the city's population reached approximately 1,995,500 people, making it the fifth-most populous city in the country.
The city is situated on the rudkhaneye khoshk seasonal river and experiences a moderate climate. For over a thousand years, Shiraz has functioned as an important regional trade center.