Discover the Ancient City of Rey: A Must-Visit Destination for Nowruz Celebrations!
As the festive season of Nowruz approaches, the ancient city of Rey, now integrated into Tehran, is poised to welcome travelers and holidaymakers during the two-week vacation that commences on March 21. This historic destination, rich in cultural significance, has seen extensive restoration and conservation efforts over the past two years, ensuring that its remarkable historical sites are ready for visitors.
Qadir Afravand, the director of the national heritage base of Rey, emphasized the meticulous preparations made for tourists, highlighting several prominent landmarks that have been revitalized. These include:
- Cheshmeh Ali: An archaeological site with a history exceeding 8,000 years.
- Rashkan Fortress: Once the heart of historic Rey.
- Tapeh Mil: Ruins located in eastern Rey near Ghaleh Now.
- Iraj Fortress: The world’s largest ancient fortification.
One of the unique features of Rey as a Nowruz destination is its close proximity to Tehran. This allows millions of residents from the capital to explore its historical wonders with relative ease. Visitors can kick off their adventure with a pilgrimage to the sacred shrine of Imamzadeh Shah Abdol Azim in the early morning. Following this spiritual experience, they can embark on a cultural and historical tour, discovering attractions such as:
- The historical bazaar of Rey
- Cheshmeh Ali
- Rashkan Fortress
- The ancient core of the city
This journey not only offers spiritual fulfillment but also provides a fascinating glimpse into Iran’s rich heritage.
For the first time, the historical center of Rey has undergone significant enhancements. These improvements include:
- Restoration of the last remaining watchtower of the ancient citadel
- Installation of protective coverings
- Lighting installations
- Fencing around key areas
These upgrades aim to accommodate the expected influx of Nowruz visitors, making their experience more enjoyable and memorable.
Moreover, Cheshmeh Ali has seen extensive renovations in collaboration with the municipality. These enhancements feature:
- Improved paving
- Landscaping efforts
These developments have created a more visually appealing environment for visitors. The site, already a favorite among locals, has been further enriched by recent archaeological excavations led by researchers from Shahid Beheshti University, which have sparked greater public interest.
Significant transformations have also been implemented at Tapeh Mil, including:
- New protective measures
- Perimeter fencing
- Meticulous restoration of unique stucco decorations
These enhancements, coupled with the breathtaking green plains of Rey in early spring, promise an exceptional experience for travelers during Nowruz this year.
For the second consecutive year, all these historical sites will feature dedicated tour guides. These guides, carefully selected from expert cultural heritage professionals, will:
- Provide in-depth archaeological insights
- Answer visitors’ questions
- Enhance the overall experience of exploring Rey’s magnificent past
Afravand has extended an open invitation to travelers from across the country to visit Rey’s historical treasures, describing them as unparalleled in their significance. With a history of human settlement that stretches over 8,000 years, Rey stands as one of the oldest cities in the central Iranian plateau.
The history of Rey is deeply rooted in ancient texts. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, it is featured in the Avesta, the original document of Zoroastrianism, as a sacred place. Additionally, it is mentioned in the biblical Apocrypha book of Tobit and by classical authors, solidifying its status as a key historical site.
This Nowruz, Rey invites you to explore its remarkable heritage, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in Iran’s storied past while enjoying the beauty of spring.
