Evaz leads new wave of literary tourism
In the heart of a dry yet intellectually and socially rich region, the city of Evaz in southern Fars Province has earned the title of “Book Capital of Iran,” attracting nationwide cultural attention. The distinction, officially marked during the opening ceremony of the 33rd Iran Book Week, marks a new chapter in the city’s cultural development and literary tourism.
Evaz, with its long-standing history in culture, commerce, and charitable initiatives, now stands at the forefront of Iran’s cultural spotlight. The city not only boasts deep-rooted cultural traditions but also benefits from remarkable public participation, earning it the prestigious title of Iran’s Book Capital. Its selection in May and the hosting of the Book Week opening ceremony represent a milestone in Evaz’s journey toward becoming a national destination for cultural tourism, chtn.ir wrote.
The city’s recognition did not happen by chance. For years, Evaz has leveraged a unique model of community engagement and locally driven cultural management to establish a prominent place on Iran’s cultural map.
Hosseinali Amiri, governor of Fars Province, described Evaz as a “symbol of knowledge, scholarship, and love for learning.” Historically, the city has been known for its religious schools, active libraries, and the presence of prominent scholars and intellectuals, establishing a deeply rooted culture of written knowledge.
According to Seyyed Abbas Salehi, Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, Evaz serves as “a national model of social participation in culture.” The city’s longstanding tradition of philanthropy extends beyond schools and hospitals to include supporting libraries, cultural projects, and social investment in literacy initiatives.
High-traffic libraries, active literary associations, and the engagement of younger generations in cultural activities created an environment in which Evaz naturally earned its place in the competition for Iran’s Book Capital.
The title now acts as a powerful driver for cultural tourism in the city. While tourism in Fars Province has traditionally centered on Shiraz and its historic landmarks, Evaz is emerging as a cultural brand: an authentic, people-centered, and book-oriented destination in southern Fars.
This recognition has drawn the attention of national and provincial authorities to developing tourism infrastructure in Evaz. Key initiatives include:
Developing literary-themed eco-lodges in historic homes
Promoting handicrafts and cultural products inspired by the region’s literary heritage
Designing literary-historical tourism routes, including visits to libraries, cultural centers, and landmark institutions
Attracting specialized, high-quality tourists
Evaz today attracts cultural tourists, writers, poets, researchers, and book enthusiasts. These visitors travel with clear objectives, stay longer, and contribute significantly to the local economy.
The title has also fostered a sense of social pride and belonging among Evaz residents, providing an opportunity to showcase the city’s lesser-known capacities on a national stage.
Evaz not only holds cultural significance but also possesses notable social and architectural potential. Its history, vernacular architecture, local traditions, and lifestyle provide a strong foundation for literary and cultural experiences. Initiatives such as establishing an anthropology museum, launching book cafés, and revitalizing historic houses for cultural use can deepen this connection.
High civic engagement — including an 83.4% voter turnout in the presidential election — reflects Evaz’s socially and culturally active community. This social capital offers a strong foundation for developing cultural tourism. Moreover, Evaz’s large and influential diaspora in the Persian Gulf countries presents a strategic opportunity to boost inbound tourism and strengthen regional cultural diplomacy.
Despite this golden opportunity, Evaz still faces challenges in reaching its full potential. Since becoming a county in 2019, several key offices have yet to be fully established, creating difficulties for tourists, investors, and residents. Local authorities also cite gaps in water supply, the need for dual-lane roads, and the establishment of fully equipped healthcare centers — all crucial for sustainable tourism development.
Being named Iran’s Book Capital is not a ceremonial accolade for Evaz; it is a cultural and economic investment that can drive sustainable regional development. The title provides a platform for Evaz to showcase its rich cultural heritage, hospitality, and tourism potential to the nation and the world.
If infrastructural challenges are addressed through national and local cooperation, Evaz could serve as a model for small cities in Iran, demonstrating how culture can become the axis of urban development.
For Evaz, the Book Capital designation is not a temporary title but a new identity — one that should be reinforced through lasting cultural experiences for tourists. A new era in the story of Evaz and its literary heritage has now begun.