The storming of the USA Embassy on the 4th November 1979 remains a pivotal memory for Americans and, along with the ongoing hostage crisis, led to a distrust of Iran which continues to the present day. For the Iranians, the 'Conquest of the American Spy Den', was equally an important part of their revolutionary history. The CIA had meddled in Iran's affairs before, and there were fears that they would do so again to try an overthrow the newly installed revolutionary government.

The walls of the Embassy were painted with bright anti-American murals, which still look in good shape today. Although locals may not even glance at them, they are quite a tourist attraction. The Lonely Planet helpfully warns that photography is not allowed, and you may be apprehended by Police if you get your camera out. This concerned me slightly, particularly when I started taking these photos and I was approached by a man in dark glasses and suit. Plain clothes Policeman I immediately thought. No, he was an local asking me what time the bank across the road opened at.




The Great Seal of the USA still is visible by the main gate, although it has been somewhat defaced. Inside the offices and accommodation are still surrounded by well kept gardens. You get the feeling it would not take too much effort for the building to resume its earlier usage, and with the continued rapprochement between Iran and the USA it will be interesting to see what happens. Undoubtedly the murals would be painted over, and a little bit of recent history would be lost, so get there before this happens!