The Iranian government has inaugurated the world's fourth highest telecoms tower in the capital city, Tehran. ­The Milad Tower sits on a hill in northwestern Tehran measures 435 metres (1,427 feet) from the base to the tip of the antenna and took 11 years to build, at a cost of US$194 million.

The top of the tower hosts a 12 story observation deck incorporating a rotating restaurant, television and telecommunication area, an art gallery and an open terrace.

"Milad Tower will be incorporated in the collective memory of Iranians," said Tehran Mayor Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf at the ceremony marking the inauguration.

The tower is the fourth tallest tower in the world after the CN Tower in Toronto, Ostankino Tower in Moscow, and the Oriental Pearl Tower in Shanghai. It is also currently 12th tallest freestanding structure in the world.

Milad Tower has an octagonal base, symbolizing traditional Persian architecture.