Ardabil to host Iran’s first handicrafts city
The head of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department of Ardabil has announced the construction of the country’s first and largest city dedicated to handicrafts and traditional arts at the Aali-Sara Tourism Complex, also known as Dehkadeh Sangi.
Mohammad Reza Shayeghi said the project is being developed entirely through private-sector investment and is expected to be ready for operation by the end of autumn this year, according to chtn.ir.
The Ardabil Carpet and Handicrafts City is being developed with the aim of creating a specialized hub for introducing, showcasing, promoting and expanding the market for the province’s handicrafts and traditional arts.
The complex covers an area of more than 6,000 square meters. One of its key features is a dedicated exhibition hall with a floor area of approximately 1,000 square meters and a height of more than 10 meters. Designed specifically for exhibitions, the hall will provide suitable space for specialized exhibitions, the presentation of handicrafts and carpets, traditional arts events and related programs.
Shayeghi emphasized the important role of private investment in the development of the project, noting that all funding for its construction has been provided by the private sector. He described the project as an example of the significant potential for non-governmental investment in developing cultural, tourism and handicraft infrastructure in Ardabil Province.
The official added that the launch of the handicrafts city could provide a platform for bringing together artists, craftspeople, producers, retailers and other professionals in the handicrafts sector. It could also create a dedicated destination for tourists and make the introduction and sale of locally produced handicrafts more organized and targeted.
He further said that one of the main objectives of the project is to establish a direct connection between tourists and the local handicraft-producing community. This would allow visitors, in addition to exploring the province’s historical and natural attractions, to become familiar firsthand with the art, culture and productive capabilities of the people of Ardabil and purchase locally made handicrafts.