Tabriz has for centuries enjoyed a great reputation as a center of Oriental culture. Over the centuries Tabriz has developed from a naturally favored oasis at the foot of the volcano Sahand, to today's commercial center. Since the 11th century it has been one of the most important rug-weaving centers in the world. Tabriz rugs are among the most beautiful and legendary carpets ever built. One of the finest eras of rug weaving was the Safavid period, which started in 1502 when the Safavids overthrew the Turks who had captured Tabriz. They made the city into an artful and poetic center of Persian culture. And of course this meant producing fine rugs. Today, many rugs produced in Tabriz are attempting to follow the incredible artistry of the Persian Safavid rugs. Tabriz managed to keep these ancient traditions alive, in spite of all the conquering and political restructuring.