Kolah Farangi of Shush Castle sees new life
The restoration and revival of the Kolah Farangi (watchtower) at Shush Castle in Khuzestan Province have begun after 23 years since the fire that destroyed this historic structure, according to the deputy director of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Organization in Khuzestan Province.
He stated, “Unfortunately, about 23 years ago, an electrical short circuit caused the Kolah Farangi to catch fire and be destroyed.”
He added, “The watchtower is one of the most beautiful parts of Shush Castle, and its restoration has been neglected for many years.”
“The materials used in building the Kolah Farangi were primarily wood, which sustained the most damage during the fire,” he explained, according to IRNA.
He also noted, “The French constructed this watchtower during their time in Shush, on the northeastern side of the castle, providing a magnificent view of the historical area and the city of Shush.”
Hosseini emphasized that the more than two decades since the destruction of the Kolah Farangi had led to its being forgotten, stating, “The restoration and revival of the watchtower have commenced with secured funding, aiming to preserve the original style. This part of the castle will be operational before the Nowruz holiday.
In the late Qajar period, a French archaeological team established a presence in Iran to conduct excavations in Shush. They used materials leftover from the Apadana Palace and the Chogha Zanbil Temple, including historical bricks from the nearby acropolis, which is a significant historical site, to construct Shush Castle.
Shush Castle features two central courtyards and three entrance doors, built over two floors. Its design resembles the Bastille Prison in France, and it includes a watchtower that offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Known also as the French Castle, Shush Castle is one of Khuzestan Province’s most famous tourist attractions, located adjacent to the Acropolis Palace and on the Shush hill.
Most of the materials used in its construction are historical bricks from the ancient site of Shush, made from raw clay. The castle’s structure was crafted by a master craftsman from Dezful.
Shush Castle was never intended for military use; from its inception, it has served cultural and research purposes and is now the site of the UNESCO World Heritage base for Shush.
The city of Shush itself is rich in history and culture, boasting several significant attractions. The Apadana Palace, a monumental structure from the Achaemenid era, showcases intricate carvings and architecture that reflect the grandeur of ancient Persia. The Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved ziggurats in the world, offering insights into the Elamite civilization.
Additionally, the Shush Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts that narrate the story of the region’s rich history, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. The city’s vibrant bazaars and local cuisine further enhance the cultural experience for visitors, making Shush not just a historical site but a lively destination for tourists.