4,000 Visitors Flock to Rey's Historic Attractions During Nowruz Celebrations!

4,000 Visitors Flock to Rey’s Historic Attractions During Nowruz Celebrations!

TEHRAN – The enchanting city of Rey in Tehran province has become a vibrant destination for Nowruz tourists, with over 4,000 visitors exploring its historical attractions from March 15 to April 4. According to Qadir Afrovand, the Director of Rey National Heritage Base, the increased tourist interest is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

Among the highlights of this year’s Nowruz celebrations was the Rashkan fortress, which opened its doors to the public for the first time and received an enthusiastic response. The festivities were complemented by various cultural programs, the expertise of seasoned tour guides, and traditional storytelling sessions known as naqqali, which celebrate the epic tales from Ferdowsi’s iconic masterpiece, the Shahnameh.

  • Visitor Statistics:
    • Cheshmeh Ali ancient complex: 4,280 visitors
    • Rashkan fortress: 3,350 visitors
    • Tapeh Mil: 1,235 visitors

Afrovand emphasized the importance of having experienced tour guides at each tourist site, which significantly enhanced visitor satisfaction. He encouraged local authorities in Ghaleh Now to improve infrastructure and facilitate access to the ancient complex, highlighting this opportunity for local development.

“In the heart of the ancient city of Rey, known for the Rashkan fortress—the most important attraction here—we hosted several naqqali performances and launched the book “Molk-e Rey” with the participation of historians and cultural enthusiasts,” Afrovand stated. He also mentioned that iftar packages were distributed to visitors during Ramadan, further enriching their experience.

Rey is home to a wealth of cultural tourist attractions beyond the mentioned figures. The Rey National Heritage Base plans to enhance and promote its historical monuments to attract even more tourists for the next Nowruz festival. This year, foreign tourists from countries including Russia, Italy, and China, as well as Iranians residing in the US, Germany, and other European nations, flocked to Rey’s historical sites.

Afrovand previously highlighted that several prominent historical landmarks in the area have been meticulously prepared for tourism. Key sites include:

  • Cheshmeh Ali archaeological site: Over 8,000 years of history.
  • Rashkan Fortress: Once the center of historic Rey.
  • Tapeh Mil: Ruins located in eastern Rey near Ghaleh Now.
  • Iraj Fortress: Recognized as the world’s largest ancient fortification.

One of Rey’s unique advantages is its close proximity to Tehran, allowing millions of capital residents to easily explore its historical treasures. Visitors can start their day with a pilgrimage to the sacred shrine of Imamzadeh Shah Abdol Azim and then embark on a cultural and historical journey through the city’s attractions, including the historical bazaar of Rey, Cheshmeh Ali, and the ancient core of the city. This experience offers both spiritual enrichment and a captivating glimpse into Iran’s rich heritage.

This year marks significant enhancements in the historical center of Rey, including:

  • Restoration of the last remaining watchtower of the ancient citadel.
  • Protected areas with new fencing and lighting installations.
  • Extensive renovations at Cheshmeh Ali, involving improved paving and landscaping.

These improvements are aimed at accommodating the increasing number of visitors. Cheshmeh Ali, already popular among locals, has been further enhanced by recent archaeological excavations conducted by researchers from Shahid Beheshti University, generating greater public interest in the site.

In addition, Tapeh Mil has seen significant transformations, including new protective measures, perimeter fencing, and meticulous restoration of its unique stucco decorations. These enhancements, combined with the stunning green plains of Rey in early spring, promise an exceptional experience for travelers this year.

Rey is recognized as one of the oldest cities in the central Iranian plateau, boasting a human settlement history stretching back over 8,000 years. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, Rey is featured in the Avesta—the original document of Zoroastrianism—and has been referenced in biblical texts and by classical authors, underscoring its historical significance.

Similar Posts

  • 55 Stolen Iranian Artifacts Repatriated from Türkiye: A Triumph for Cultural Heritage

    A collection of 55 Iranian artifacts, previously smuggled into Türkiye, has been returned to Iran after extensive recovery efforts. The artifacts, which include a Sasanian sword and ancient coins, were transferred back in January 2025. This return was facilitated by the Iranian Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, in collaboration with the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Turkish authorities had initially seized the items, affirming their Iranian origins. This successful repatriation underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating artifact smuggling and preserving cultural heritage, setting a positive example for other nations facing similar challenges.

  • This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly. This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.

  • Iranian Artisans Shine at Uzbekistan’s Vibrant Crafts Festival

    Iranian artisans are proudly displaying their craftsmanship at the Kokand International Crafts Festival and the International Festival of Handicrafts in Rishtan, Uzbekistan, starting September 18. This festival serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange, showcasing the artistry and heritage of various countries. Narges Rajaei, from the Handicrafts Education and Promotion Department, highlighted its role in promoting indigenous art globally. Notably, 18 Iranian artisans present diverse crafts like pottery, tiles, and calligraphy. The event, running until September 20, features workshops and exhibitions, fostering connections among artisans and celebrating the importance of traditional crafts in a contemporary context.

  • Unveiling the Secrets: Ongoing Exploration of the Historic Soltaniyeh Dome

    Archaeological excavations at the Soltaniyeh World Heritage Base are continuing, focusing on the Ilkhanid architecture, particularly in the Abvab al-Bar area. The site, associated with Oljaytu, the eighth Ilkhanid ruler, includes the impressive Soltaniyeh Dome, a mausoleum and architectural marvel. The current excavations aim to uncover 19 buildings that served the community, with limited historical details driving the research. Significant findings on the dome’s western side reveal Ilkhanid-era spaces and artifacts. The site symbolizes advancements in Persian and Islamic architecture, influencing future artistic developments and providing insights into the Ilkhanid period’s rich history.

  • Unlocking History: Nahavand’s Nagarechi Hill Reveals Secrets of Iran’s Seleucid Era

    Nagarechi Hill in Hamedan province is emerging as a vital archaeological site that enhances our understanding of the Seleucid era in Iran, characterized by the fusion of Greek and Persian cultures post-Alexander the Great. Excavations have uncovered numerous artifacts, including pottery and coins, alongside advanced architectural remnants, highlighting the era’s urban planning and trade practices. This site not only holds historical significance but also presents research opportunities for scholars. As excavations progress, Nagarechi Hill is expected to draw tourism, boost the local economy, and foster community engagement, while promoting the preservation of its rich cultural heritage.

  • Revving for Safety: Tehran-Sari Motorcycle Rally Kicks Off to Promote Road Awareness

    A group of 50 bikers embarked on a motorcycle tour from Tehran to Sari in Mazandaran province to promote road safety awareness during Iran’s Government Week from August 23 to 29. Riding 250 cc bikes, they emphasized the importance of adhering to traffic regulations, with support from traffic authorities. Traffic Police Chief Teimour Hosseini highlighted the initiative’s goal of instilling responsible riding practices among youth. The Touring & Automobile Club of Iran also backed the event, themed “Drive Safely, Learn More, Stay Healthy.” The two-day journey reinforced road safety messages while celebrating Iran’s landscapes, fostering community among the participants.