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Exploring Haftad Molla Cemetery’s legends, architecture
This ancient cemetery dates back approximately 800 years and is located atop the sandstone cliffs of the volcanic Mount Taftan, near the popular tourist village of Tamin, which is known for its cool climate. From Tamin, visitors can enjoy one of the most spectacular views of the peak of Mount Taftan, visitiran.ir wrote.
Like many other historical monuments in Tamin, Haftad Molla Cemetery has been carved directly into the rocks. Historically, the design of the tombs was inspired by the architecture of the tomb of Cyrus; the ancient people carved large openings into solid rocks to serve as graves. Covering an area of about 500 square meters, the burial site has an arch shape extending over the eastern part of Rups village. The graves are always shaded by natural overhangs, which helps protect them from erosion caused by wind and rain. A century ago, two large stone pillars stood in front of the main opening of the cemetery, but these have been destroyed over time.
The graves are rectangular in shape. Bricks were arranged along their sides, and the bodies were buried within these structures. These graves were constructed flat, with eight small holes embedded on each side to provide ventilation. The walls of the cemetery were painted in red, a pigment made from local soil. Additionally, families decorated the graves using the same soil, adding a personal and cultural touch to each site.
The exact date and historical records regarding the foundation of the cemetery remain unknown, which has led to a variety of legends and stories about its origins. There are some popular tales associated with Haftad Molla Cemetery; one story claims that local inhabitants buried their dead on the mountain to keep them safe from flooding, a theory supported by the proximity of the cemetery to a nearby river.
Recognized as a national heritage site in Iran, Haftad Molla Cemetery is accessible via a route that starts from Zahedan, goes through Mirjaveh, and then proceeds to Tamin village. The road leading to Tamin village is paved and easy to traverse. However, the road from the village to the cemetery is more rugged and can only be navigated using local vehicles suited for off-road travel.
Sistan and Baluchestan Province is one of Iran’s most ancient regions, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Historically, it was part of the larger region of Greater Baluchistan and has served as a crossroads of civilizations, trade routes, and cultural exchanges. The province is known for its diverse ethnic groups, including Baluch, Persians, and others, each contributing to its unique cultural landscape. Its historical sites, like Haftad Molla and others, reflect the deep-rooted traditions and the importance of this region through centuries of history, from ancient Persia to the modern era. Despite facing some socio-economic challenges today, Sistan and Baluchestan remains a vital cultural and historical hub, preserving its heritage amid its natural beauty and rugged landscapes.