Masouleh on the path of global registration
By Sadeq Dehqan
Staff writer
The dossier for the global registration of the historical city of Masouleh in Gillan Province has been prepared and will be submitted at future sessions of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, announced a Parliament representative from Furman and Shaft.
In an interview with Iran Daily, Khalil Behrouzifar highlighted that the global recognition of Masouleh is expected to boost tourism in this historic city and province.
Situated in the southern part of Gilan province, Masouleh is located 36 kilometers from Fuman and 60 kilometers from the provincial capital of Rasht. Known for its unique stepped architecture, where houses are built on the mountain slope, the area has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the northern region of the country. Masouleh’s distinct architectural style features lower buildings with courtyards that serve as the roofs of upper buildings, while both front yards and rooftops are utilized as pedestrian paths.
The Member of Parliament further emphasized that Masouleh, the historic town, stands as a pivotal tourist destination in Gilan Province. Over the recent years, substantial endeavors have been dedicated to overcoming the hurdles obstructing its inclusion on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.
Up to now, representatives from UNESCO and their accompanying delegations have conducted two comprehensive visits to Masouleh and its surrounding areas to compile detailed reports essential for the global registration process. Highlighting Masouleh’s rich history spanning 800-1000 years, he noted its initial registration on Iran’s National Heritage List in the 1970s, with endeavors towards global recognition commencing in 2010.
From 2020 onwards, provincial authorities have persistently navigated the intricate pathway towards Masouleh’s global registration. Each visit by international assessors and UNESCO experts has propelled this town closer to the coveted global acknowledgment, marking significant progress in this ongoing journey.
He expressed, “Undoubtedly, the global recognition of Masouleh will draw an influx of tourists and travelers from both Iran and across the globe to Gilan Province. This surge in visitors will not only bolster the tourism sector but also positively impact the livelihoods of the local community.”
Additionally, he highlighted the historical significance of Rudkhan Castle as another prominent tourist attraction in Gilan Province. Spanning over two hectares and situated atop the highest peak in the region, the castle served military purposes in the past. Accessing the castle necessitates ascending a minimum of 800 steps meticulously constructed to reach its summit.
Gilan Province consistently leads the nation in hosting travelers during Nowruz (Iranian New Year), attracting seven to eight million visitors annually from various parts of the country. Touching upon the attractions of Shaft, he noted that Shaft stands out as a forested and elevated town in Gilan Province, housing the revered tombs of two Imamzadehs named Imamzadeh Es’haq and Imamzadeh Ebrahim. These sites hold significant religious and touristic value in Gilan Province.
The mausoleum of Imamzadeh Es’haq is perched atop Siahkuh’s summit, soaring over 1,000 meters above sea level. Regarded as an emblem of Gilan Province, it provides a breathtaking vantage point showcasing the entirety of the province and the city of Rasht. This picturesque setting offers travelers and tourists a stunning panorama, immersing them in the natural beauty of the region.
In contrast, Imamzadeh Ebrahim rests within the verdant and elevated landscapes of Shaft, boasting a distinctive architectural style. The site features multi-story wooden houses intricately arranged side by side, forming a striking historical architectural ensemble nestled within the heart of nature.