Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan is one of the most beautiful historical structures in Iran and the second grand adobe fortress in our country after Arg-e Bam in Kerman. You may not know that in the past, densely constructed and interconnected structures were built to protect people, cities, and houses, which were commonly referred to as “arg” (fortress). Fortresses were usually built in areas where natural protection like mountains and forests was absent. Arg-e Qurtan, also known as Qurtan Castle, is considered one of the most beautiful residential and historical areas in Isfahan Province. In the following article from Eligasht, we intend to take a journey to this citadel and explore it closely together.
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Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan and the Best Access Route
Qurtan Citadel is located in Varzaneh County, 10 kilometers from this city towards Isfahan. This complex and fortress are considered sights of Varzaneh and are located near a village of the same name. You may not know that the distance from Qurtan to Isfahan is only 90 kilometers, and this historical and thousand-year-old fortress is exactly 45 kilometers northwest of Gavkhuni Wetland and on the road from Isfahan towards Varzaneh.
To reach this castle, you first need to go from Varzaneh to the road to Isfahan. Continue on this road until you reach Sohran Intersection. Then, continue on the right path of the intersection and after traveling a distance of 3 kilometers and passing Zayandeh Rood, Qurtan Castle will be in front of you.
A Historic Encounter with Qurtan Citadel
It’s interesting to know that Qurtan Citadel is a completely historical complex or a fully historical city located in a village of the same name in the center of Gavkhuni District. This adobe and brick fortress is a complete collection of independent historical structures. This fortress has a bathhouse, three mosques, two residential castles, and a bazaar.
In addition to all these, the residents of the fortress also had other utilities like a mill and a caravanserai, which have completely disappeared over time. Qurtan Citadel is categorized among the limited group of adobe and brick fortresses where habitation still exists and is registered in the list of Iran’s national heritage sites.
The history of Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan
The antiquity of the historical village of Qurtan dates back to the reign of Bahram V of the Sasanian era and the 4th century. However, archaeological excavations and the discovery of pottery belonging to the Achaemenid period indicate that settlement in this area dates back thousands of years. The grand Arg of Qurtan also belongs to the period of the Dailamites’ rule and the 4th century AH. Some believe that this fortress had a purely military function and could accommodate well over 50,000 households during times of war.
The immense Qurtan Citadel was classified as a residential area in 1355 SH. Continuous pressures from the government’s non-ownership of existing lands and the inability and financial constraints to build houses outside the Arg area all contributed to the people residing in the Arg for a long period.
After people settled in new houses, the old houses inside the Citadel were used for storage and livestock keeping. Additionally, using the fortress as a fodder warehouse and for agricultural purposes led to the rapid destruction of its old structure. Currently, about 10 households reside there, and this part of the fortress remains better preserved compared to its older section.
Naming of Qurtan village
The village of Qurtan has an interesting history tied to Bahram V Sassanid, famously known as “Bahram Gur.” His reputation as a skilled zebra hunter is what made him well-known, and the Qurtan area is recognized as one of his hunting grounds. The name Qurtan, or Gurtan, reflects the abundance of zebras and Bahram Gur’s influence in the region. Thus, it’s reasonable to interpret Qurtan as meaning “Gortan.” Alternatively, some suggest that Qurtan comes from “Qorkhaneh,” which translates to armory or ammunition storage, indicating that this location may have served as a weapons depot.
In addition to speaking Persian, the people of Qurtan also communicate in Valati, also referred to as Varzaneh. Linguists trace the roots of this language back to Old Persian and Pahlavi, and it remains popular among the residents in the eastern part of Isfahan province.
The unique architecture of the Qurtan Citadel
You may not know that the extent of this citadel is approximately 5 hectares and its materials are entirely in line with the desert climate, made of mud and clay. This fortress has a curtain wall built with raw mud materials. It goes without saying that the strength and grandeur of this fortress and its walls are exemplary. The height of the fortress walls from the ground to the battlements is 9 meters, and the height of its towers from the ground to the battlements is estimated at 12 meters.
Its northern rampart is 250 meters long, and its eastern rampart is 180 meters long. There are 14 watchtowers in this fortress. Unfortunately, one of these towers and a part of the fortress wall have been completely destroyed due to the deviation of the Zayandeh Rud River. It’s also interesting to note that the wall thickness in this fortress varies between 3 to 4 meters.
Various parts of the Qurtan citadel in Isfahan
Like other fortresses, this citadel is comprised of various sections, which we will introduce to you below.
– Mosque in Arg-e Qurtan
As mentioned, the Qurtan Citadel includes several mosques located throughout the fortress. The Aheleh Mosque is the first Shabestan mosque in this fortress, with architecture that differs from other parts of the Arg. The section where this mosque is located is very remarkable and unique.
The second mosque called the Upper Mosque, was built at the beginning of the Islamic era. This mosque can only be identified by its mihrab. It has two mihrabs, one older and one newer.
Additionally, the Ibrahim Mosque is the third mosque in this Arg, built-in 1084 AH during the reign of Shah Suleiman Safavi. This mosque is located in the northeast part of the Arg, not far from the bathhouse.
-The market in Arg-e Qurtan in Isfahan
As we mentioned, another part of this citadel is its market, which is divided into two sections. The first part belongs to carpenters and their shops, as well as the caravanserai. The second part belongs to other merchants, but unfortunately, only the ruins of their shops remain.
– Hammam(bath) in Arg-e Qurtan
The bath located in this citadel is on its western side and was heated using firewood. Unfortunately, the firewood had to be brought from a long distance. In 1978, the hammam was renovated, and currently, the residents of the citadel use it.
– Pigeon Tower in Arg-e Qurtan
The pigeon tower of this citadel is located exactly in the heart of the northwest. On the outer facade, there are 12 silos in the shape of crescents, each of which is one of the main pillars of this structure. The diameter of the silos is 12 meters, and their height is 15 meters.
– Aragah in Arg-e Qurtan
You might not know that there are exactly four pigeons in this citadel, which the local people call Aragah. These pigeons are usually made of stone and are used to move their animals.
– Date Palm Orchard in Qurtan Citadel
In the center of this citadel, there is a building with a height of 6 meters called the Date Palm Orchard. This building has very beautiful plasterwork and belongs to the Safavid era. In the past, it was a place to keep the palm trees for the mourning of Imam Hussain.
Accommodation in Qurtan Citadel
In this area, there is an eco-tourism accommodation called Balaban, located within the citadel, offering a unique experience for tourists and travelers. After the reconstruction and renovation of the citadel in 1398, one of its old houses was converted into accommodation. This house can accommodate 40 guests and travelers and offers a unique traditional atmosphere and facilities such as bathrooms, uncovered parking, a heating system, and local guides.
Sights near Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan
In this area, there are various tourist attractions and sights that should not be missed during your visit.
– Gavkhoni Wetland
This wetland is located 30 kilometers from Varzaneh and covers an area of 470 square kilometers. It plays a fundamental role in the region’s ecosystem and serves as a habitat for various animals, insects, and organisms.
– Beautiful Desert of Varzaneh
This desert is located 100 kilometers east of Isfahan and Varzaneh city, considered one of the most beautiful central deserts in Iran. It is located in the east of Isfahan and is 530 kilometers away from Tehran. Additionally, an oasis leisure site with various recreational activities is situated in this desert, offering a unique stay for tourists and travelers.
Final words
We had a journey together to Qurtan Citadel in Varzaneh, Isfahan. Meet this magnificent citadel on your trip to this area and touch its grandeur and magnificence up close. It is a historical and magnificent structure that unfortunately is not very well preserved and supported. However, even with all its ruins and shortcomings, it has preserved its grandeur and magnificence, providing grounds for wonder for everyone.
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FAQ
What is the historical significance of the Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan?
Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan holds historical importance as a multifunctional structure that has served as a defense fort, a residential area, and a commercial hub throughout different periods in history.
What architectural styles influenced the design of the Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan?
The architecture of the Qurtan Citadel in Isfahan reflects a blend of traditional Iranian styles, notably influenced by Safavid architecture, showcasing intricate details and craftsmanship.
What are the main attractions within Qurtan Citadel that draw visitors?
Visitors are drawn to Qurtan Citadel by its unique features, including a market divided into carpenter and merchant sections, a hammam (bathhouse), a pigeon tower, a stone aragah (pigeons), and a date palm orchard with exquisite Safavid-era plasterwork.
When is the best time to visit the Qurtan Citadel?
The best time to visit the Qurtan Citadel 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.
Are there any facilities available near the citadel?
The Qurtan Citadel is a historical site with limited facilities. Visitors are advised to bring their own supplies, such as water and snacks, for a comfortable visit.