Hasanlu Village Set to Earn UN Recognition as Top Travel Destination

The ancient village of Hasanlu, located in northwest Iran, is on the verge of gaining recognition as one of the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism. This prestigious label is awarded to destinations that showcase exceptional cultural heritage and tourism potential. Hasanlu is among eight Iranian villages vying for inclusion in the UN Tourism’s 2025 recognition list, as reported by CHTN on Monday.

During a recent visit to the village, Seyyed Mostafa Fatemi, the Director General of Domestic Tourism at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, praised Hasanlu as “a mirror reflecting the full spectrum of historical tourism attractions.” This statement underscores the village’s rich cultural tapestry and its potential as a thriving tourist destination.

Here are some key points highlighting Hasanlu’s unique offerings:

• Cultural Heritage: Hasanlu is renowned for its rich blend of cultural heritage and history, showcasing artifacts from one of the oldest known civilizations.
• Eco-Tourism: The village boasts eco-tourism opportunities, including beautiful wetlands that attract numerous bird species, making it a birdwatching paradise.
• Local Handicrafts: Hasanlu is famous for its locally crafted handicrafts, which reflect the artistic traditions of the region.
• Sustainable Development: The village emphasizes sustainable practices to maintain its economic, social, and environmental stability.
• Tourism Facilities: A growing number of tourism facilities have been established to cater to both domestic and international travelers.

Fatemi highlighted the village’s significant capabilities in cultural heritage, eco-tourism, and nature-based attractions. He noted, “Hasanlu possesses outstanding capacities in cultural heritage, eco-tourism, and nature-based attractions.” This sentiment is echoed by the presence of Hasanlu Hill, which adds historical gravitas to the village.

To date, only two Iranian villages—Kandovan in East Azarbaijan and Esfahak in South Khorasan—have received recognition from UN Tourism as premier rural tourism destinations. The potential success of Hasanlu’s nomination could pave the way for more international recognition of Iran’s rural tourism landscape.

Fatemi elaborated on the village’s strengths in sustainable development, mentioning its commitment to preserving cultural and historical assets while promoting tourism. This approach not only enhances the visitor experience but also ensures that the local community benefits from tourism growth.

The global nomination dossier for Hasanlu is anticipated to be finalized within the week. Fatemi stated, “We are working to resolve the remaining gaps and formalities to submit the complete file to the UN Tourism soon.” This diligence reflects the Ministry’s commitment to achieving this significant milestone for the village.

If the nomination is successful, it could substantially increase tourism and international interest in Hasanlu, positioning it as a key destination in Iran’s rural tourism landscape. Visitors to this historic site can look forward to an enriching experience that combines cultural exploration with natural beauty.

In conclusion, Hasanlu’s potential recognition as one of the Best Tourism Villages by UN Tourism stands as a testament to the village’s rich heritage and promising future in the tourism sector. With its unique blend of history, culture, and eco-tourism, Hasanlu is poised to attract travelers from around the globe, offering them an unforgettable glimpse into Iran’s past and present.