A former Persian capital and one of the most famous cities in the production of Persian rugs. Isphahan is located in western Iran and was the capital city during the golden age of Persian rug production in the 16th and 17th centuries while the Safavid dynasty was in power. After a decline in culture and prosperity from the early 18th century, Isphahan began regaining its status in the 1920's when fine rugs based on classical Persian themes began being woven once again. Many Isfahan carpets from the postwar period are very finely woven with knot densities up to 750 per square " and frequently the use of silk is added. Popular designs include intricate floral medallions or animal pictorial rugs.