Markazi Province to utilize caravanserais for tourism development and economic growth
The caravanserais of Markazi Province will be handed over to investors to promote and enhance tourism in the country, said director general of Markazi Province’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization.
Mahmoud Moradi, speaking to reporters, added that the caravanserais of the province are an overlooked opportunity for the development of road tourism, and in order to increase employment and boost the economy in the province, the untapped potential of tourism must be utilized effectively, ISNA wrote.
He noted that five caravanserais and historical buildings in the province have already been assigned to the private sector. In the near future, an additional ten will also be entrusted to private investors for further development.
Moradi highlighted the most significant building handed over in the province as the Dodahek Caravanserai in Delijan, and added that to support investors in this handover, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage will provide loans and engage in long-term contracts of 20 to 25 years.
“These caravanserais are a paradise for investment and attracting tourists, and transforming them into model tourist areas will also boost employment.”
He highlighted the availability of various baths and historical buildings across the province for handover, noting, “these sites are ready to be ceded to private investors. Announcements have been made to facilitate this process through the Ministry’s Revitalization Fund.”
Moradi also referred to the province’s historical tourism potential, mentioning that “more than 10 historical caravanserais from the Safavid and Qajar periods have been identified along the communication routes of Markazi Province, which could be renovated to attract tourists and travelers.”
He added, “caravanserais with private ownership will be restored by their owners using supportive policies, and the provincial cultural heritage department will provide comprehensive assistance to these owners.”
Markazi Province boasts 2,171 identified historical sites, over 900 of which are listed as national heritage, positioning it as a potential focal point for both domestic and international tourists.