Preserving heritage of East Azarbaijan Province’s, a path to prominence
East Azarbaijan Province is a cold region located in the northwest of Iran. This land has a history intertwined with revolutionary figures like Sattar Khan and Baqer Khan, who are revered by the local community. The cuisine in East Azarbaijan is known for its robust, intricate, and vibrant flavors. The province gets its name from “Azar,” which means fire, symbolizing the necessity of warmth to survive the harsh winters in this rugged terrain.
It is an ancient region, centered around the historic and picturesque city of Tabriz, which has proudly served as Iran’s capital for an extended period, renowned for its cultural heritage and the plethora of historical buildings and houses within the province.
Ahmad Hamzehzadeh, the director general of East Azarbaijan Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization, noted that there are over 4,000 historical monuments dating back to Tabriz’s 500-year history. However, due to budget constraints within the Cultural Heritage Ministry, the provincial administration alone cannot adequately protect and restore these structures. The involvement of the private sector in the reconstruction, restoration, and transformation of historical sites into diverse tourist attractions plays a crucial role in establishing this ancient province as a prominent tourism destination in the region.
He said that utilizing the beauty and historical significance of the houses of East Azarbaijan Province, which enjoy a well-established global reputation, is crucial for promoting all aspects of tourism in the region, including handicrafts, intangible cultural heritage, and diverse tourism sectors.
“We are committed to effectively showcasing East Azarbaijan Province and contributing to the transformation of this historic area of our beloved Iran into a prominent tourism destination in the region.”