Iran opens the 435-meter Milad Tower, world's fourth-tallest telecommunications tower, that serves as a symbol of the nation's modernization.

Constructed by Iranian engineering companies in the northwest of the capital, Milad Tower was inspired by Iran's Islamic architecture. The complex housing the tower is officially known as the International Communication Center of Tehran.

It has taken 11 years to complete the tower, measuring 435 meters (1,427 feet) from the base to the tip of the antenna at a cost cost of about $194 million (142 million euros).

Tehran Mayor Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf inaugurated the Milad Tower during a ceremony held on Tuesday. The tower accommodates a rotating restaurant, television and telecommunication area, an art gallery and an open terrace which is expected to attract visitors.

Milad Tower is overshadowed by the CN Tower in Toronto, Ostankino Tower in Moscow and the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai.

... Payvand News - 10/08/08 ... --