Hamadān, Iran
Region: Hamadān
Geographic Coordinates: 34.806400, 48.516100
Temperature Range: -15.0°C to 35.0°C (5°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal climate and weather patterns in Hamadān, Iran are influenced by its location in a semi-arid region with hot summers and cold winters.
Population: 554406
Language: Persian
Hamadān, Also known as Hamedan, Is a city located in western Iran. It is the capital of Hamadan Province and has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The city was once the capital of the Medes, One of the first Iranian empires, And played an important role in Persian history. Today, Hamadān is known for its historical sites and natural beauty. One of the most famous attractions in Hamadān is Ganjnameh Inscriptions. These inscriptions are carved into two large rocks near Mount Alvand and date back to the Achaemenid Empire (550-330 BC).
They contain messages from King Darius I and Xerxes I in three different languages: Old Persian, Elamite, And Babylonian. Another must-see site in Hamadān is Hegmataneh Hill. This hill contains ruins from ancient times including a palace complex from the Median period (728-550 BC) that was later used by other empires such as Achaemenids and Parthians. For those interested in Islamic architecture, There are several notable mosques to visit such as Jameh Mosque which dates back to Seljuk period (1037–1194 AD) with beautiful tile work on its minarets while Alavian Dome mosque has stunning stucco decorations on its dome.
Nature lovers will enjoy visiting Lalejin village which is famous for its pottery industry or Ali Sadr Cave which is one of the largest water caves in Asia with amazing stalactites hanging down from above. Foodies will love trying local dishes like Kufteh Tabrizi or Abgoosht which are traditional Iranian dishes made with meatballs or lamb stew respectively. Another local specialty that should not be missed out on while visiting Hamadān province are sweets like Sohan Asali made with honeycomb candy coated with saffron and pistachios.
In addition to its rich history and cultural attractions, Hamadān is also known for its beautiful parks such as Baba Taher Park which has a large lake surrounded by trees. The city also has several museums including the Hamadān Museum of Natural History which showcases the region’s flora and fauna. Overall, Hamadān is a fascinating city that offers something for everyone. Its historical sites, Natural beauty, Delicious food, And welcoming people make it an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience Iran’s rich culture and history.
- Ganjnameh Inscriptions: An ancient rock art site dating back to the Achaemenid Empire.
- Tomb of Esther and Mordechai: A shrine believed to be the burial place of Queen Esther and her cousin Mordechai.
- Ali Sadr Cave: A large cave system with underground rivers and lakes that can be explored by boat.
- Hegmataneh Hill: The ruins of an ancient city dating back to the 6th century BC, including a palace, temple, and fortifications.
- Alavian Dome: A mausoleum built in the 12th century for a local ruler featuring intricate tile work and calligraphy.
- Baba Taher Mausoleum: The tomb of a famous Persian poet from the 11th century known for his mystical poetry.
- Hamadan Bazaar: An old marketplace with traditional shops selling handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
- Imamzadeh Abdollah Shrine: A beautiful shrine dedicated to a descendant of Prophet Muhammad.
- Stone Lion Statue: A large statue of a lion carved into a rock face near Ganjnameh Inscriptions.
- Ecbatana Palace Museum: A museum showcasing artifacts from the ancient city of Hegmataneh Hill and other historical sites in Hamadān province.
- Agriculture
- Carpet weaving
- Leather goods production
- Handicrafts manufacturing
- Tourism
- Production of traditional Iranian sweets such as gaz and pashmak
- Pharmaceutical industry with several pharmaceutical companies operating in the region
- The Battle of Hamadan occurred in 521 BCE between Persian King Darius I and Median King Phraortes, making it one of the earliest recorded battles in Iranian history.
- Avicenna, also known as Abu Ali al-Husayn ibn Abd Allah ibn Sina, was a renowned philosopher and physician who lived in Hamadan during the 11th century CE. He is considered a significant figure in Islamic philosophy and medicine.
- Al-Muqaddasi, an Arab geographer, visited Hamadan during the 10th century CE and wrote extensively about its history, culture, and geography.
- In 1220 CE, Genghis Khan’s Mongol army invaded Iran and destroyed much of Hamadan’s infrastructure.
- During the Safavid dynasty in the 16th century CE, Hamadan became an important center for trade and commerce.
- Baba Taher Oryan was a famous Persian poet who lived in Hamadan during the late 11th century CE.
- During Iran’s constitutional revolution against Qajar rule in the early 20th century CE, Hamadan played a crucial role.
- Ibn Rustah was an Arab historian who visited Hamadan during the late 9th century CE and wrote extensively about its history and culture.
- The Esther & Mordechai Tomb Complex (Shrine) is located on top of Mount Alvand where Esther & Mordechai are buried according to Jewish tradition.
- The Nizamiyyeh School is situated at Imam Khomeini square that dates back to Seljuk era (12-13th Century) which was founded by Khwaja Nizam al-Mulk.
- Ganjnameh Inscriptions: These are ancient inscriptions on rocks from the Achaemenid era.
- Hegmataneh Hill: This is an archaeological site that contains remains of the ancient city of Ecbatana.
- Baba Taher Mausoleum: This is the tomb of Baba Taher, a Persian poet and mystic.
- Alavian Dome: This is a 12th-century mausoleum that features intricate brickwork and tile decorations.
- Hamadan Museum of Natural History: This museum showcases the natural history of the region, including fossils and minerals.
- Avicenna Mausoleum: This is the tomb of Avicenna, an influential philosopher and physician in Islamic history.
- Alisadr Cave: Located about 70 km from Hamadan, this cave is one of the largest water caves in the world.
- Tomb of Esther and Mordechai: This burial site is for two biblical figures revered by Jews and Muslims alike.
- Imamzadeh Hossein Shrine: A popular pilgrimage site for Shia Muslims, this shrine is believed to contain relics from Imam Hossein’s life.
- Bu Ali Sina Park (formerly known as Pahlavi Park): Located in central Hamadan city center, this public park features gardens, fountains, and a small zoo.
- Bu Ali Sina Festival: This festival is held in honor of the famous Iranian philosopher and physician, Avicenna.
- Hamadān Rose Water Festival: This festival celebrates the production of rose water, which is a popular product in Hamadān.
- Ganjnameh Festival: This festival celebrates the ancient Persian inscriptions found on rocks near Hamadān.
- Alisadr Cave Festival: This festival is held to celebrate one of the largest water caves in the world, located near Hamadān.
- Buali Carpet Festival: This festival showcases traditional Persian carpets and their intricate designs.
- Hamedan International Film Festival: A yearly film event that showcases films from around Iran and other countries as well as workshops for filmmakers.
- Jashne Tirgan (Tirgan Festival): A summer solstice celebration with feasting, music and games.
- Ashura Mourning Ceremonies: A religious ceremony commemorating Imam Hussein’s martyrdom with processions and mourning rituals.
- Norouz (Persian New Year): The biggest cultural celebration in Iran which marks the beginning of spring.
Traditional Iranian Dishes:
- Kalleh Pacheh: a traditional Iranian dish made from sheep’s head and feet.
- Qeimeh: a stew made from beef or lamb with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
- Ash Reshteh: a thick soup made with beans, noodles, herbs, and sometimes meat.
- Baghlava: a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and honey syrup.
- Abgoosht: a hearty soup made from lamb or beef with chickpeas and potatoes.
Popular Restaurants in Hamadān:
- Shahr-e-Aftab Restaurant: known for its traditional Iranian dishes like Kalleh Pacheh and Qeimeh.
- Alborz Restaurant: specializes in Persian cuisine including kebabs and stews.
- Hafez Restaurant: serves traditional Iranian dishes as well as international cuisine like pizza and pasta.
- Ghasr-e-Shirin Restaurant: offers both indoor and outdoor seating options along with an extensive menu of Persian dishes.
- Mahdiyeh Traditional House Restaurant: located in an old mansion, this restaurant serves authentic Iranian food in a historic setting.
- Bu Ali Sina Park is located in the heart of Hamadan and offers a variety of recreational activities such as walking paths, playgrounds, and sports fields.
- Alisadr Cave is a natural attraction that is popular among tourists who want to explore the underground caves and lakes.
- Ganjnameh Inscriptions are ancient inscriptions located on the side of Mount Alvand that provide a glimpse into Iran’s rich history.
- Baba Taher Park is named after the famous poet Baba Taher and features beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues.
- Hamadan Ski Resort is located just outside of the city and offers skiing and snowboarding during the winter months.
- Laleh Park is known for its beautiful flowers and scenic views of Mount Alvand.
- Hegmataneh Hill Archaeological Park dates back to 700 BC and showcases ruins from ancient Persia.
- Abshar-e-Bu Ali Recreation Center offers swimming pools, water slides, tennis courts, and other outdoor activities for families to enjoy together.
- Tomb Of Esther And Mordechai is an important Jewish pilgrimage site in Iran that attracts many visitors every year.
- Alvand Mountain Cable Car is one of Iran’s longest cable cars that takes tourists up to 3 kilometers above sea level where they can enjoy stunning views over Hamedan city from above.
