Saqqez, Iran
Region: Kurdistan Province
Geographic Coordinates: 36.246400, 46.266400
Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 30.0°C (14°F to 86°F)
Climate: Cold and snowy winters, mild springs, hot and dry summers, and cool autumns.
Population: 165258
Language: Kurdish
Saqqez is a stunning city located in Iran’s Kurdistan province. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times and was once known as Sagis during the Achaemenid era. Saqqez is situated at an altitude of 1, 476 meters above sea level and has a population of approximately 100, 000 people. One of the most striking features of Saqqez is its picturesque mountainous landscape. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. The mountains also offer plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, Trekking, And mountaineering.
The vibrant bazaar in Saqqez is another popular attraction featuring traditional handicrafts to fresh produce. It’s a bustling market that attracts both locals and tourists alike who can sample delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants or street vendors located throughout the bazaar. For history buffs, There are several historical sites like Quri Qaleh Castle which dates back to the Sassanid era and played an important role during various battles throughout history. Additionally, There are several museums showcasing artifacts from different periods including pre-Islamic times.
Saqqez also celebrates unique festivals like Newroz which marks Kurdish new year on March 21st each year with music performances, Traditional dances called Halparke or Kurdish Circle Dance, Poetry readings among other activities. but not least important thing about Saqqez is its friendly people who are known for their hospitality towards guests visiting their city from all over Iran or abroad. Saqqez offers something for everyone whether you’re interested in outdoor activities or want to experience the warmth of Kurdish hospitality while exploring its rich history and culture.
- Saqqez Bazaar: This traditional marketplace has various shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Sheikh Ali Khan Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located near Saqqez that attracts many tourists.
- Jameh Mosque of Saqqez: This historic mosque dates back to the Seljuk era.
- Quri Qaleh Castle: An ancient castle located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Saqqez.
- Mount Zardkuh: A popular destination for hiking and trekking enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Sarab Garmeh Hot Spring: This natural hot spring is located near Saqqez and is believed to have therapeutic properties.
- Shaho Mountain Park: A scenic park with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for children.
- Sorkheh Hesar National Park: One of Iran’s largest national parks, home to diverse wildlife and plant species as well as historical sites such as ancient petroglyphs.
- Kani Barazan Cave: A beautiful cave complex believed to be millions years old, located 25 kilometers from Saqqez city.
- Saqqez, Iran is a city that is primarily known for its agricultural and industrial industries. The city boasts a number of different businesses that contribute to its economy.
- One of the main industries in Saqqez is agriculture. The region is particularly famous for producing apples, but also grows other crops such as wheat, barley, and vegetables.
- Another important industry in Saqqez is textiles. The city has a thriving textile industry that produces carpets, rugs, and fabrics.
- Woodworking is another significant industry in Saqqez. The woodworking industry produces furniture and wooden handicrafts.
- Saqqez also has several factories that produce construction materials such as cement blocks and bricks.
- The city also has several food processing plants that specialize in dairy products like cheese and yogurt.
- The region around Saqqez also has significant mineral deposits like iron ore, limestone, and gypsum which contributes to the mining industry’s growth.
- Tourism plays an important role in the economy of Saqqez due to its scenic natural beauty including mountains, forests, waterfalls etc., which attracts visitors from all over the world.
- In recent years services sector has emerged with growth of small businesses like restaurants, cafes, car rentals etc.
- Saqqez played a crucial role as a center of Kurdish resistance during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s.
- The city boasts many historical sites, such as the Quri Qaleh Castle and Jameh Mosque.
- Several prominent Kurdish politicians and activists hail from Saqqez, including Jalal Talabani who founded the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) and Mahmoud Othman who served as a member of Iraqi parliament.
- The city has also been a hub for Kurdish literature and culture with many renowned poets and writers originating from Saqqez.
- Unfortunately, in recent years, earthquakes have caused significant damage to infrastructure and buildings in the area affecting Saqqez adversely.
- Saqqez Bazaar
- Jameh Mosque of Saqqez
- Imamzadeh Hossein Shrine
- Saqqez Castle
- Qal’eh Dokhtar (Maiden Castle)
- Sheikh Ali Khan Waterfall Park
- Kani Barazan Park
- Sardasht Lake
- Zeynabieh Bathhouse Museum
- Kabab-e Jigar: A traditional liver kebab dish served with bread and herbs.
- Dizi: A hearty stew made with lamb, chickpeas, beans, tomatoes, and potatoes.
- Baghali Polo: A rice dish cooked with dill and broad beans.
- Sholezard: A sweet saffron rice pudding dessert.
- Haji Baba Restaurant: One of the most famous restaurants in Saqqez serving traditional Iranian dishes such as kebabs and stews.
- Sefidbar Restaurant: Another popular restaurant known for its delicious Iranian cuisine including grilled meats and seafood dishes.
- Kebab-e-Khanevadeh: A family-owned restaurant that specializes in Persian kebabs served with freshly baked bread and homemade yogurt sauce.
- Cafe Naderi Saqqez Branch: A cozy cafe that serves a variety of hot drinks along with Iranian sweets such as baklava and halva.
- Saqqez Park: It is a large park located in the heart of the city with walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas and a lake.
- Quri Qaleh Waterfall: A beautiful waterfall located near Saqqez with hiking trails and camping sites.
- Kani Barazan Ski Resort: A popular ski resort located 20 km from Saqqez with skiing slopes for all levels.
- Gorgin Village: A picturesque village located near Saqqez with traditional architecture, local food and handicrafts.
- Mount Oshtoran Kooh: A scenic mountain peak near Saqqez with hiking trails and camping sites.
Please note that due to COVID-19 restrictions or other reasons these places may have limited access or may be closed temporarily or permanently.
