Kermānshāh, Iran
Region: Kermānshāh
Geographic Coordinates: 34.314200, 47.065000
Climate: Dry and hot summers, mild and rainy winters.
Population: 952285
Language: Persian
Kermānshāh, Located approximately 525 kilometers southwest of Tehran, Is a city in western Iran and the capital of Kermanshah Province. The city has a population of around 850, 000 people and enjoys a mild climate throughout most of the year. Situated on the slopes of the Zagros Mountains, Kermānshāh has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Formerly known as Hecatompylos or City of Hundred Gates, Kermānshāh served as an important center for trade between Mesopotamia and Central Asia.
During the Parthian Empire (247 BC-224 AD), It was an important cultural center before becoming part of the Sassanian Empire (224-651 AD). Kermānshāh’s historical sites are among its main attractions. Taq-e Bostan features rock reliefs from the Sassanian era depicting kings and nobles hunting or in battle scenes while Bisotun contains inscriptions from Darius I in three different scripts: Old Persian cuneiform, Elamite script, And Babylonian cuneiform.
The city also boasts several museums that showcase its rich history and culture such as Kermanshah Museum which houses artifacts from prehistoric times to Islamic period while Moaven al-Molk Tekyeh Museum displays traditional Iranian arts including painting, Calligraphy, And music instruments among others. Furthermore, Kermanishah offers visitors beautiful parks such as Shariati Park with artificial lakes surrounded by trees that provide shade for families who come here for picnics or relaxation. Agriculture is one of Kermanishah’s major industries due to its fertile soil; it produces wheat, Sugar beet, Pistachios among other crops.
Apart from agriculture, Kermanishah also has industries such as textiles, Cement, And food processing. The city is also a transportation hub connecting major cities in Iran to the border with Iraq. The people of Kermānshāh are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors. They take pride in their city’s rich history and culture, Always eager to share it with others. In conclusion, Kermanshah is a beautiful city that offers visitors a glimpse into Iran’s rich history and culture. From its ancient historical sites to its museums, Parks, Agriculture, And industries, There is something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis.
With its friendly people and mild climate, Kermanshah is definitely worth visiting when traveling through Iran.
- Taq-e Bostan
- Bisotun Inscription
- Anahita Temple
- Moaven al-Molk Tekyeh
- Jameh Mosque of Kermanshah
- Ghoori Ghaleh Cave
- Tagh-e-Shirin Caravanserai
- Tekyeh Biglar Beigi
- Shafei Mosque and School Complex
- Emad al-Dowleh Mosque
Major Industries and Businesses in Kermānshāh, Iran
The major industries and businesses in Kermānshāh, Iran are diverse and contribute significantly to the local economy. Some of the prominent industries include:
- Agriculture
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Services
- Healthcare
- Education
Agriculture
Agriculture is one of the most important industries in Kermānshāh due to its fertile soil and favorable climate. The region grows various crops like:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Medicinal plants
Mining
Kermānshāh has rich mineral deposits like:
- Iron ore
- Coal
- Copper ore
- Lead-zinc ore
These minerals are extensively mined in the region.
Manufacturing
The region also houses several manufacturing industries like:
- Textiles (carpets)
- Food processing (dairy products)
- Cement production
- Construction materials
Services
The service sector is growing rapidly with many hotels and restaurants catering to tourists visiting historical sites like Taq-e Bostan.
Healthcare
The healthcare industry is also a significant contributor to the local economy with numerous hospitals providing medical services not only to residents of Kermanshah but also neighboring regions.
Education
Education services are another major contributor to the economy with several universities located in or around Kermanshah such as Razi University.
- The Battle of Kangavar: This battle took place in 48 BC between the Parthian Empire and the Roman Republic. It is considered one of the most significant battles in Iranian history.
- The Sassanian Empire: Kermānshāh was an important city during the Sassanian Empire (224-651 AD). Many notable buildings and monuments were constructed during this time, such as Taq-e Bostan.
- Shah Abbas I: This Safavid dynasty ruler (1588-1629) visited Kermānshāh several times during his reign and ordered many architectural projects to be completed there.
- The Constitutional Revolution: In 1906, a constitutional revolution broke out in Iran against absolute monarchy rule. Kermānshāh played a significant role in this revolution, which led to the establishment of a parliament and a constitution.
- Ayatollah Khomeini: The founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini (1902-1989), spent some time studying at a religious school in Kermanshah before becoming involved in politics.
- Earthquakes: Over the centuries, several devastating earthquakes have struck Kermanshah province causing widespread destruction and loss of life including an earthquake that hit on November 12th ,2017 killing over 500 people.
- The Kurdish Uprising: In August 1979 after Iranian Revolution, Kurdish groups launched an uprising against Iranian government. The rebellion lasted for over two years until it was suppressed by Iranian forces. Kurdish areas suffered heavy damage from air raids by military helicopters.
- Taq-e Bostan is a historical site that boasts rock reliefs from the Sassanid era.
- The Bisotun Inscription is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an ancient inscription carved into a mountain.
- The Kermanshah Museum of Anthropology is a museum that showcases the cultural and historical heritage of Kermanshah province.
- Shafei Mosque, dating back to the 12th century, is one of the oldest mosques in Kermanshah.
- Moavenol-Molk Tekyeh is a traditional Shia religious complex with beautiful tilework and architecture.
- Ghoori Ghaleh Cave, located near Kermanshah, features stunning stalactites and stalagmites in an ancient cave system.
- Behistun Palace are ruins of an ancient palace built during the Parthian era located near Bisotun Inscription.
- Jameh Mosque of Kangavar is an impressive mosque known for its intricate brickwork and architecture dating back to 11th century AD.
- Taghbostan Park provides scenic views perfect for picnicking or relaxing after sightseeing located near Taq-e Bostan.
- Baba Taher Mausoleum serves as the final resting place for Baba Taher, a famous Persian poet from the 11th century AD.
- Kermānshāh doesn’t have any notable professional sports teams or major sporting events.
- Nevertheless, there are amateur teams and local clubs that engage in various sports including:
- Football
- Basketball
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
- These teams mainly compete at the local level and don’t have noteworthy histories or accomplishments to mention.
- The Kermanshah International Film Festival is an annual event that features a diverse selection of Iranian and international films.
- Nowruz, the Persian New Year, is celebrated in Kermanshah with traditional food, music, dancing, and other festivities.
- The Sardasht Martyrs Commemoration takes place every year to honor the victims of chemical bombing in Sardasht during the Iran-Iraq war.
- The Kurdish Music Festival celebrates the rich musical heritage of the Kurdish people who reside in Kermanshah province.
- Muharram Mourning Ceremonies are held throughout Iran to pay tribute to Imam Hussein’s martyrdom, who was Prophet Muhammad’s grandson.
- The Ghasr-e Shirin Pomegranate Festival celebrates pomegranates that thrive abundantly in this region.
- Shah Abbasi Caravanserai Ceremony commemorates a historic caravanserai built during Safavid era for travelers on Silk Road route passing through Kermanshah province.
- Ta’zieh Drama Performances are religious plays depicting events from Shia Islam’s history and culture usually performed during Muharram mourning ceremonies.
- Kebab: There are many kebab restaurants in Kermānshāh, as kebabs are a popular dish in Iran.
- Dizi: This is a traditional Iranian stew made with lamb or beef, chickpeas, tomatoes, potatoes, onions and spices.
- Ash Reshteh: A thick soup made with beans, noodles, herbs and spices.
- Kabab-e Jigar: This is a skewered liver kebab that is marinated in lemon juice and spices before being grilled.
- Shandiz Restaurant: Serves traditional Iranian dishes like kebabs and stews.
- Café Naderi: A famous café since the 1920s that serves tea, coffee and pastries.
- Shahriar Restaurant: Serves traditional Iranian dishes like kababs and stews as well as international cuisine.
- Zeytoon Cafe & Restaurant: Offers Mediterranean cuisine along with traditional Iranian dishes like kababs and stews.
- Golha Traditional House Hotel & Restaurant: Serves authentic Persian food in an old-style house setting.
- Homa Hotel’s Gardenia restaurant : Offers international cuisine along with local specialties such as kebabs and stews.
- Taq-e Bostan Park is a popular destination in Kermanshah due to its historical rock reliefs and picturesque gardens.
- Shariati Park, situated in the heart of Kermanshah, offers various recreational activities like cycling, jogging, walking and picnicking.
- Pardis Park is located on the outskirts of Kermanshah and provides a serene atmosphere with a lake, gardens, playgrounds and picnic areas.
- Bisotun National Park is approximately 25 km away from Kermanshah and boasts hiking trails, camping facilities, wildlife viewing opportunities and breathtaking views of the Bisotun mountain range.
- Azadi Sports Complex features multiple sports facilities including swimming pools, tennis courts, football fields and basketball/volleyball courts making it an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts.
- Mosalla Park is located centrally with vast green spaces for relaxation or playing games such as football or volleyball etc., along with a small amusement area equipped with rides for children.
- Shahid Beheshti Recreational Complex can be found near Taq-e Bostan complex providing recreational activities such as horseback riding , cycling , paintballing etc., accompanied by restaurants serving traditional Iranian food.
