Discovery of a mysterious hand-carved structure near Rudkhan Castle
A tunnel or natural cave?
Rudkhan Castle is a brick and stone medieval structure in Gilan Province. It is a military complex constructed during the Sassanid era (224-651 CE), and later rebuilt during the Seljuq era.
Head of Gilan Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Organization Vali Jahani said a mysterious structure has recently been discovered near the castle, potentially serving as a part of a tunnel, or an entrance to the fortress itself, or perhaps a natural or manmade cave, ISNA reported.
However, experts have stated that further, more detailed archaeological investigations are required before reaching a definitive conclusion.
According to Jahani, Rudkhan Castle is one of the remarkable wonders harboring numerous hidden secrets within its core. This astonishing fortress is located on the summit of a mountain, approximately 20 kilometers from the city of Fuman.
Previous exploratory surveys conducted in the eastern and western sides of the mountain summit revealed the presence of guards responsible for protecting this fortress. Although the cemetery of the fortress remains undiscovered, archaeologists strive to unravel the hidden mysteries of this beautiful structure.
Jahani mentioned that during the examination of the surrounding area, researchers stumbled upon an entirely concealed, peculiar structure hidden beneath dense vegetation and trees. This enigmatic structure is not directly related to Rudkhan Castle, and what is evident is that it likely served as a dedicated outpost for the skilled forces under the command of the fortress.
He added that this structure and the guard who was present inside it seems to have had close connections with the fortress, constantly monitoring and relaying information about any potential enemy attacks.
According to Jahani, the features of the structure suggest it may have been larger in size. The floor reveals visible evidence of lime mortar and handcrafted soil, creating a mosaic-like pattern. The mouth of the structure spans around six square meters, with a depth of approximately four meters. These details raise questions about its original function and how it fits into the historical context of the region.
Rudkhan Castle’s strategic location, surrounded by a river and dense forests, has made it an impregnable stronghold throughout history. The use of strong materials such as brick, stone, wood, mortar, and lime in its construction, coupled with its unique architecture, further fortified its defenses against enemy forces. It is no wonder that it has earned a place on Iran’s National Heritage List.
As we delve deeper into the rich history and architectural wonders of Iran, Rudkhan Castle stands as a testament to the country’s vast cultural heritage. Exploring the ancient walls and forts that have withstood the test of time offers a fascinating glimpse into the architectural ingenuity and historical depth present in this remarkable structure.