Behbahān, Iran

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Behbahān, Iran

Region: Behbahān is located in the Khuzestan province


Geographic Coordinates: 30.595800, 50.241700
Temperature Range: 25.0°C to 35.0°C (77°F to 95°F)
Climate: Dry and hot climate with very little rainfall, especially in the summer months. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C in July and August.
Population: 122604
Language: Persian

Behbahān, Located in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, Iran, Is a city with a rich history dating back to the Sassanian era. It was an important center for trade and commerce and agriculture, Producing crops such as wheat, Barley, And cotton. One of Behbahān’s most notable attractions is the Behbahāni House belonging to Seyed Ali Mohammad-e-Behbahani. The house showcases traditional Iranian architecture with intricate tile work, Stained glass windows, And ornate wooden doors. The Jame Mosque is another must-see attraction in Behbahān.

This mosque dates back to the 14th century and features stunning architectural designs such as intricate tile work on its minarets and domes. Visitors can also enjoy natural attractions like Lake Shadegan which provides habitat for many bird species including flamingos. The nearby Dez Dam offers opportunities for outdoor recreation like fishing or boating on its reservoirs fed by the Dez River. Behbahān is known for producing some of Iran’s finest handicrafts such as carpets, Pottery, Textiles, And woodwork which can be found at local markets throughout the city.

Overall Behbahān offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture, Nature, And artistry making it an ideal destination beyond major cities like Tehran or Isfahan.



Important Landmarks

  1. Behbahān Historical House: A beautiful traditional house that dates back to the Qajar era.
  2. Jameh Mosque of Behbahān: A stunning mosque that is over 700 years old and features intricate tile work.
  3. Shapouri House: A historic mansion built by a wealthy merchant in the early 20th century.
  4. Gerdab Sangi Park: A lovely park with a man-made waterfall and several walking paths.
  5. Kuh-e-Dinar Natural Park: A scenic park with hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  6. Behbahan Bazaar: An old market where visitors can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
  7. Imamzadeh Abdullah Shrine: A beautiful shrine dedicated to a descendant of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
  8. Darvish Baba Mausoleum: The final resting place of a revered Sufi mystic who lived in Behbahān centuries ago.
  9. Khosrow Abad Mansion: Another historic mansion built during the Qajar era, now turned into a museum showcasing local art and culture.
  10. Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat: Although not located within Behbahān itself, this ancient ziggurat is only an hour’s drive away and is one of Iran’s most significant archaeological sites from the Elamite period (around 1250 BCE).

Primary Industries

  1. Agriculture: Behbahān’s fertile land makes it an excellent location for agriculture, producing crops such as wheat, barley, cotton, rice, fruits and vegetables.
  2. Textile industry: The city has a thriving textile industry that produces fabrics like cotton and silk.
  3. Petrochemical industry: Several petrochemical plants in the city produce products such as plastic and rubber.
  4. Construction materials: Behbahān has several factories that manufacture construction materials like cement blocks and bricks.
  5. Food processing: There are numerous food processing plants in the city that process agricultural products into finished goods like canned fruits and vegetables.
  6. Handicrafts: Behbahān is also known for its handicrafts industry which includes pottery making, carpet weaving, embroidery work etc.
  7. Mining Industry : The city also has some mining activities mainly focused on extracting minerals like iron ore from the nearby mountains.

In conclusion, Behbahan’s economy relies heavily on agriculture with small to medium scale industries supporting it effectively.


Noteable History

  1. The Battle of Behbahān occurred in 1857 during the Anglo-Persian War, where the Persian army defeated a British force.
  2. Sheikh Ahmad Ahsa’i, born in Behbahān in 1753, was a prominent Islamic scholar and founder of the Shaykhī school of thought.
  3. Abdolhossein Teymourtash, born in Behbahān in 1883, was a politician and statesman who served as Iran’s Minister of Court under Reza Shah Pahlavi.
  4. Seyyed Hossein Nasr, an Islamic philosopher and professor at George Washington University, spent his childhood years in Behbahān despite being born in Tehran.
  5. Mohammad Ali Jinnah visited Behbahān during his tour of Iran in 1939 as the founder of Pakistan to meet with local officials and dignitaries.
  6. Saeed Emami was an Iranian intelligence officer who played a role in assassinating Iranian dissidents abroad; he was born and raised in Behbahān before joining the intelligence services.
  7. Mirza Taqi Khan Amir Kabir served as prime minister from 1848 to 1851 during the Qajar era before being executed by order of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar; he had ties to Behbahan through his wife who came from there.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list but highlights some notable events/people associated with Behbahan throughout history.


Museums and Things To See

  1. Behbahani House Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in traditional Iranian architecture and design.
  2. The Behbahān Friday Mosque features stunning tile work and intricate carvings.
  3. The Shapouri House Museum showcases the life of one of Iran’s most prominent architects, Hossein Amanat Shapouri.
  4. Khorshidi Garden is a serene park with beautiful gardens, fountains, and walking paths.
  5. Shahid Motahari Park is another popular park in Behbahān with plenty of green space and recreational facilities.
  6. Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat, located about 40 km from Behbahān, is an ancient site home to the ruins of an impressive ziggurat built by the Elamites over 3000 years ago.
  7. The Abadan Museum of Petroleum Industry is a must-visit for those interested in Iran’s oil industry history; it’s located in nearby Abadan.
  8. The Tomb of Saadi Shirazi honors one of Iran’s most celebrated poets and writers from the medieval period; it’s located about 100 km from Behbahān.
  9. Hafez’s tomb honors another important poet from medieval Persia; it’s located in nearby Shiraz and attracts visitors from all over the world for its stunning architecture and gardens.
  10. Vakil Bazaar isn’t technically a museum or monument but offers visitors a chance to experience traditional Iranian markets filled with spices, textiles, handicrafts, and more!



Cultural Events

  1. Behbahān Rose Festival: This festival is held every year in May and celebrates the beautiful roses that grow in the region.
  2. Ashura: A religious festival commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, which is observed by Shia Muslims.
  3. Nowruz: The Persian New Year celebrated on March 21st.
  4. Eid al-Fitr: A Muslim holiday marking the end of Ramadan.
  5. Muharram: A month-long mourning period for Shia Muslims commemorating the death of Imam Hussein.
  6. Yalda Night: An ancient Persian festival celebrating the winter solstice on December 21st.
  7. Sizdah Bedar: The thirteenth day after Nowruz when people go out for a picnic and spend time with family and friends.
  8. Mehregan Festival: A Persian autumn harvest festival celebrated on October 2nd or 3rd each year to honor Mithra, the god of light.

Note that this list may not be exhaustive and there may be other cultural events or festivals celebrated in Behbahān, Iran as well depending upon various factors such as local customs/traditions etc.


Cuisine

  • Kebab-e Behbahāni – a grilled meat dish made with lamb or beef marinated in a special spice blend.
  • Baghlava – a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and filled with chopped nuts and syrup.
  • Dizi – a traditional Iranian stew made with lamb, chickpeas, potatoes, tomatoes, and spices.
  • Sholeh Zard – a saffron-flavored rice pudding topped with cinnamon and pistachios.
  • Shahi Tandir Restaurant – known for its delicious kebabs and traditional Iranian dishes.
  • Nakhjir Restaurant – offers a variety of Persian dishes including stews, kebabs, and rice dishes.
  • Behbahani Cafe & Restaurant – serves traditional Iranian breakfast items like omelets, breads, jams along with tea or coffee.
  • Javaher Polow Restaurant- specializes in serving different types of biryanis (rice-based dishes) along with kebabs and other Persian delicacies such as ghormeh sabzi (herb stew).

  • Parks and Recreation

    1. Shahr-e Behbahān Park: This is a popular park in the city that offers walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
    2. Kuh-e Cheshmeh Recreation Complex: This complex has a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a fitness center.
    3. Behbahān Cultural Center: This center hosts various cultural events such as music concerts, theater shows, and art exhibitions.
    4. Gahvareh Waterfall: Located just outside of the city limits, this waterfall is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
    5. Sistan River: The Sistan River runs through the city and offers opportunities for fishing and boating.
    6. Shahid Chamran Sports Complex: This sports complex has facilities for basketball, volleyball, soccer, and other sports activities.
    7. Behbahān Zoo: The zoo features various animals such as lions, tigers, bears and monkeys which attract visitors from all over the region.

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