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Enchantment of Vali Castle in Ilam
After the castle’s completion, Gholamreza Khan commissioned an inscription, 180cm long and written in Nastaliq script, to be engraved and placed above the eastern entrance. Unfortunately, this inscription fell during the Iran-Iraq war and is now housed in another part of the castle.
The castle features a large alcove on the north side, which is significantly bigger than the other rooms. At its center lies a small spring, originally adorned with marble but later renovated with colorful tiles. The ceiling showcases exquisite mirror work, with some sections remaining intact on the western side, adding to the building’s allure.
Among the architectural highlights are lattice windows with colored glass, turquoise blue lattice brick fences, round columns, painted capitals, and decorative bow arches. The primary materials used in the castle’s construction are interconnected bricks and stones.
Vali Castle comprises five small and 20 large rooms, four porches, and two small terraces on the south side. Water is supplied through a spring using a traditional method, where spring water is channeled to the central courtyard via a water pipe.
Vali Castle was registered as a national historical site in June 1997. It has since been converted into the Anthropology Museum, overseen by the Cultural Heritage Organization.
The museum showcases Ilam’s customs, culture, tribes, and notable political and cultural figures through various sculptures. Today, the Anthropology Museum of Ilam is considered one of the richest specialized museums in the world. It is located in front of the Cultural Heritage Organization on Pasdaran Street and is open to the public daily, except Fridays.
Ilam, the capital of Ilam Province in western Iran, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled in the Zagros Mountains, the region is characterized by its diverse ethnic communities, primarily comprising Kurds, Lors, and Persians. The cultural mosaic is reflected in the local traditions, music, and festivals.
Ilam is also famous for its historical sites, including ancient ruins and traditional villages, which attract visitors interested in exploring the region’s history and culture. The area’s breathtaking scenery, with lush forests, rolling hills, and vibrant flora, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.