Layout and Structure of Shahr-e-No
The neighborhood covered an area of approximately 135,000 square meters and was divided into main and secondary sections. The main section included Kumail, Istakhr, Qanat, and Qavam Streets, which had 36 alleys, each containing 30 to 50 houses. Several families often lived together in a single house, and sometimes multiple men and women shared a single room.
From another perspective, the neighborhood was divided into two areas: “Qale” and “Najibkhaneh.” The “Qale” served as the main workplace for prostitutes, while the “Najibkhaneh” was a residential area where prostitutes lived but engaged in minimal prostitution. The neighborhood also housed dozens of cafes, cinemas, cabarets, and theaters. Some notable entertainment venues included the Shokofeh-e-No cabaret and two cinemas.
Expansion of Prostitution in Other Cities
The business model of Shahr-e-No was replicated in several cities across Iran. Brothels were established in various locations, including:
- “Dobel” in Abadan
- “Baskul” in Ahvaz
- “Nairabad” in Bandar Abbas
- “Shirin Bayan” in Shiraz
- “Cotton Factory” in Gonbad-e-Kavoos
The women in charge of these establishments, known as “Khanem-e-Rais,” managed the brothels and expanded prostitution networks in other cities.