Ancient Persian Calendar

Once upon a time, when Caspian Sea had an extent reaching to Kashan and the city of Shush was on the shore of Persian Gulf, Iranian year had twelve months and 365 days. Every four years one day was in excess and subsequently each 120 years, the surplus would be 30 days.

Thus, after 120 years the Iranian year was 13 months long. Each day of the extra month was a holiday and no one would work. Everything was free for the people. They would only celebrate together, drink and eat freely: a month of fun and entertainment.

That’s why Iranians wish a lifetime of 120 years for their beloved ones. Hope-you-live-for-120-years wish is still common among Iranians.

(By Mehdi & Kami, from Iran Cozy Hostel)