Many ancient sites across Iran hold hidden histories and secrets. Numerous of these historical sites have been neglected, with few knowing of their existence. Today, we want to delve into two ancient and historical sites, whose histories are rich with wonders. The Tower of Pir Shahriar and the Kotoul Shah Castle are two ancient castles nestled in the heart of the forest. While most tourists travel to the northern provinces to enjoy nature, you can also explore ancient and historical sites to learn about their antiquity and history.
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The Tower of Pir Shahriar in Mazandaran Province
Mazandaran is one of Iran’s most beautiful and lush provinces, with its pristine nature and untouched cities always attracting tourists. Throughout history, Mazandaran has been a region of interest for rulers, resulting in many historical structures hidden within its cities. If you’ve passed through the village of Lomerz, you’ve likely heard of the Tower of Pir Shahriar. This historical site is one of the tourist attractions in this beautiful village, located in the Rastupi district along the path to the mountain villages of Pol Sefid and Sari.
When you enter the village of Lomerz and proceed, you will spot the Tower of Pir Shahriar on the left among a multitude of sky-reaching trees. The origins of this tower date back to the 5th century AH. The architecture of the Tower of Pir Shahriar is circular with a roof resembling a sugarloaf, constructed entirely of brick and plaster. Unfortunately, over time, the decorative tiles of the dome have disappeared. The walls of the tower are approximately 2.35 meters thick, with the brick part of the wall having a diameter of 70 centimeters.
Old reports about the Tower of Pir Shahriar mention that in the past, the tower had a door and an old wooden chest, but these are not present today. In archaeological investigations conducted in the 1960s, pieces of a decorative wooden chest were discovered for the first time. After extensive efforts, archaeologists were able to extract information related to this historical artifact. This ancient chest was built during the reign of the mystic hermit Saleh Zahed, during the era of Shahriar. The inscriptions on it were carved by the mystic hermit Ali Khurumeh Zahed. The construction of the wooden chest mausoleum was completed in the month of Muharram in the year 880 AH. With the efforts of Dr. Manouchehr Studeh and Dr. Abdolrahman Emadi, two mystical poems by two hermit poets, inscribed on the chest mausoleum, were restored and recited.
Route to Lomrez Village
If you are looking for nature exploration and forest trekking, you must choose Lomrez Village. As mentioned, this lush and pleasant village is located along the route to Savadkuh and Pol-e Sefid. Enter the side roads to reach Lomrez Village. Head northeast and along this path, you will encounter lush valleys and greenery. After about a kilometer into the forest, you will reach an open valley devoid of forest cover, surrounded by forests. This valley is part of the southern slopes of the Alvand Peak. To ascend Alvand Peak, move to your right towards the east, and at the end of the ridge, turn east again. By decreasing the slope on the eastern ridge of Alvand Peak and changing direction towards the west, you will eventually reach the 1900-meter peak of Alvand.
Kotoul Shah Castle in Gilan Province
Siahkal is one of the most unique and beautiful counties in Gilan Province, known not only for its pristine and verdant nature but also for its numerous historical structures. One of the most fascinating historical structures in Siahkal County is Kotoul Shah Castle, dating back to the Timurid era. Kotoul Shah Castle is situated near the village of Mousha (Mir Shah) and was registered as a national monument of Iran on August 4, 2003. According to historical depictions, the origins of this ancient castle trace back to the Ismaili and Timurid periods, as evidenced by the names of nearby villages like Mousha (Mir Shah), Dimasra (Pir Mir Shah), Marjaneh, and Kotoul Shah, indicating that this entire region was once under the rule of a royal family.
The access route to Kotoul Shah Castle
To reach Siahkal, you need to take the Lahijan-Siahkal road and after reaching a three-way intersection, turn right. After traveling several kilometers on the road, you will reach a crossroad. Turn right and after a few minutes of walking, you will see Kotoul Shah Castle. This ancient castle is built on a 30-meter hill.
There is limited information available about this family and the rulers of that time, but according to some writings, Kotoul Shah was one of the rulers during the Ismaili and Timurid periods, governing over the cities of Roudbar, Singsar, and Lahijan. Historical texts suggest that unfortunately, Kotoul Shah was considered a tyrannical ruler of his time, having constructed Kotoul Shah Castle in Siahkal to exert greater control over his realm.
Structure of Kotoul Shah Castle in Gilan
Kotoul Shah Castle is elliptical in shape, with an additional section attached to the south side. The watchtowers of the castle are located next to this additional section, consisting of two floors with connecting staircases that serve as the entry points and gateways of the castle. The larger sections of the castle have a diameter of 26 meters, while the smaller sections have a diameter of 9.7 meters. The thickness of the castle walls varies, ranging from approximately 1.8 to 4.2 meters.
On the eastern side of Kotoul Shah Castle, there is a water reservoir, and on the western side, there is a platform. According to local residents of Mousha village, in the past, there were numerous underground passages in Kotoul Shah Castle, but over time, most of these passages have disappeared. The small rooms within Kotoul Shah Castle, like other ancient structures, exhibit geometric designs and have vaulted ceilings.
Final words
Kotoul Shah Castle and the Tower of Pir Shahriar are amazing examples of the area’s rich history and stunning architecture. These buildings give us a peek into the past, showcasing the power struggles and cultural influences of their time, while also reminding us of the lasting impact of those who lived there.
Visiting these sites is a fantastic way to connect with history, admire the skills of earlier craftsmen, and think about the stories hidden within these ancient walls. As people stroll through the halls and rooms of Kotoul Shah Castle or look up at the Tower of Pir Shahriar, they embark on a time-traveling adventure, uncovering the mysteries and intricacies of days gone by.
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FAQ
How can I reach the Tower of Pir Shahriar in Mazandaran?
The Tower of Pir Shahriar is located in the Mazandaran Province of Iran. Visitors can reach the tower by driving through scenic routes in the region. It is advisable to use a map or GPS for accurate directions.
What activities can I enjoy at the Tower of Pir Shahriar?
Visitors can explore the ancient structure, enjoy photography opportunities, and take guided tours to learn more about the tower’s history and significance. The site offers a unique blend of historical exploration and natural beauty.
When is the best time to visit the Tower of Pir Shahriar?
The best time to visit the Tower of Pir Shahriar is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the surrounding landscapes are vibrant. These seasons provide ideal conditions for exploring the site.
What is the historical significance of Kotoul Shah Castle?
Kotoul Shah Castle holds historical significance as it dates back to the Timurid era and is a registered national monument of Iran. It is believed to have served as a stronghold for rulers during the Ismaili and Timurid periods, symbolizing power and control over the region.
Who was Kotoul Shah and what was his role in the region’s history?
Kotoul Shah was reputedly a ruler during the Ismaili and Timurid periods, governing cities like Roudbar, Singsar, and Lahijan. He is described in historical texts as a possibly tyrannical figure, with Kotoul Shah Castle serving as a center of authority for his rule.
What is the architectural layout of Kotoul Shah Castle?
Kotoul Shah Castle features an elliptical shape with additional sections attached to the south side. It includes watchtowers with two floors, connected by staircases serving as entry points to the castle. The walls vary in thickness, and there are smaller rooms with geometric designs and vaulted ceilings.