Dezful, Kashan cities recognized by WCC
Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism, Ezzatollah Zarghami, announced that the cities of Dezful and Kashan have earned a prestigious accolade from the World Crafts Council (WCC). These cities have been registered by the WCC for their exceptional contributions to the world of traditional craftsmanship.
Dezful earned distinction for its mastery of kapubafi, a unique handicraft prevalent in southern Iran. Kapubafi involves weaving wicker baskets from palm leaves and adorning them with vibrant colored yarns. Kashan, on the other hand, secured its place on the global handicraft map for its expertise in traditional textiles, IRNA reported.
Zarghami highlighted the meticulous evaluation process, thorough documentation, and on-site inspections that supported the registration of these cities.
He underscored that this recognition comes with both a responsibility and an honor, urging a concerted effort to further develop these crafts.
Kapubafi, an art form rooted in palm tree waste, was elaborated by Zarghami as a testament to the beauty, durability, and practicality of these artifacts. This craft avoids excessive spending on imported raw materials, thereby contributing to economic resilience.
The announcement marks an important milestone, as Iran’s tally of world-recognized handicraft cities and villages now stands at 13, including Dezful and Kashan.