Izeh Poised to Become National Kilim City: Registration on the Horizon!

Izeh Poised to Become National Kilim City: Registration on the Horizon!

Izeh, a vibrant city located in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, is on its way to being recognized as a national kilim city. This initiative is significant, as it can elevate Izeh’s unique hand-woven kilims to the global handicraft arena. According to experts, the city possesses immense potential for worldwide recognition.

The kilim, a traditional handwoven rug inspired by nature, agriculture, and tribal life, holds a special place in the cultural fabric of Iranian society. Izeh has reached remarkable heights in this art form, making significant contributions to the traditional crafts of Iran.

Shokrollah Qasemi, the deputy head of Khuzestan’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism department, recently announced that the initial assessment process for registering Izeh as the national city of kilim has commenced. This process involved the presence of Behzad Ahmadi Farsani, the director-general of the Office for Handicrafts Education and Promotion. During their visit, they explored various kilim-weaving workshops, observed urban elements adorned with kilim patterns, and noted the enthusiastic requests from the people of Izeh to achieve this goal.

Qasemi stated, “In case of gaining the necessary indicators, Izeh’s dossier will be sent to the Office of Registration of Monuments of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts.” He further elaborated on the city’s growing kilim-weaving industry, revealing that there are currently over 29 active kilim-weaving workshops and two official institutes in Izeh. In the last Iranian year alone, nearly 500 weavers obtained a kilim-weaving certificate, showcasing the city’s dedication to this craft.

Additionally, Qasemi pointed out that seven artisans have been awarded a seal of excellence for their exceptional kilim-weaving skills. “The remarkable growth of kilim-weaving workshops in recent years has transformed Izeh into a prominent hub for this craft,” he emphasized. “We have utilized all of Izeh’s facilities to create sustainable employment opportunities and enhance urban incomes.”

Izeh’s reputation as a center for kilim weaving continues to grow. According to Abbas Rahimi, a well-known handicrafts researcher, the city has a significant chance of being acknowledged as a world city of kilims by the World Crafts Council (WCC), contingent upon certain infrastructural improvements. Izeh has long been a focal point for the production of kilim carpets, with the essential skills required for this art form being passed down through generations.

In an interview with ISNA, Rahimi noted that Izeh’s kilims are in the process of being nationally registered. He emphasized that for Izeh to earn international acclaim, better organization of existing facilities is essential. “Izeh possesses even greater potential than Dezful,” Rahimi stated, referring to another historical city in the province that has already achieved recognition as a world city for its basket-weaving craft. He cited the abundance of kilim weaving workshops and cooperative businesses throughout Izeh as evidence of its capabilities.

The kilims produced in Izeh serve dual purposes—they are not only decorative but also highly functional. Rahimi explained that gaining international recognition could significantly enhance the city’s prospects for development and progress, potentially positioning Izeh as a global hub for kilim artistry. To achieve WCC recognition, he stressed the importance of inviting evaluators from the World Crafts Council to tour the city’s kilim-weaving workshops, cooperatives, markets, and training centers.

Izeh is located approximately 180 kilometers from Ahvaz and is renowned for its rich eco-tourism. The city is home to the Bakhtiari tribe, known for speaking the Bakhtiari dialect. Nestled in a semi-mountainous region, Izeh plays a crucial role in Khuzestan’s cultural and handicraft landscape.

Kilims, which are flat tapestry-woven carpets or rugs, have been traditionally crafted in Iran and other regions of the former Persian Empire. The artistry and techniques involved in kilim weaving reflect not only the cultural heritage of the region but also the skilled craftsmanship of its artisans.

In conclusion, the journey of Izeh toward becoming a recognized national kilim city symbolizes the preservation of cultural heritage and the promotion of traditional arts. As efforts continue to improve infrastructure and attract international attention, Izeh is poised to emerge as a key player in the global handicraft scene, showcasing the beauty and intricacy of its hand-woven kilims.

Similar Posts

  • Transforming Kandelous: Northern Iran’s Village Pioneers Accessible Tourism Initiatives

    Kandelous village in Mazandaran province is pioneering “accessible tourism” in Iran, ensuring inclusivity for visitors with disabilities and the elderly. Deputy provincial tourism chief Mehdi Es’haqi noted that significant infrastructure improvements, such as ramps, wheelchairs, accessible restrooms, and Braille signage, have been implemented to enhance mobility. Training for local hosts on accommodating guests facing mobility challenges has also been introduced. Recognized as a model for accessible tourism, Kandelous combines stunning landscapes with a rich cultural heritage, inviting all visitors to explore its offerings. The village sets an example for other rural areas, promoting social equity and expanding tourism access.

  • Discovery of Fourth Burial Inscription at Naqsh-e Rostam: Unveiling Ancient Secrets!

    Abolhassan Atabaki, a noted archaeologist, has discovered a fourth burial inscription in the Naqsh-e Rostam area of Marvdasht, Fars province, linked to an ossuary from the late Sassanid era. This ornately decorated ossuary sheds light on burial practices influenced by Zoroastrianism. Atabaki and historian Najmeh Ebrahimi emphasized the role of religious beliefs, geography, government, and wealth in shaping these practices. The ossuary features a five-line Pahlavi inscription, stating, “This is the grave of the son of Nikdad. Go to heaven.” This find enriches our understanding of Sassanid culture and burial traditions as further excavations continue.

  • Protecting Persepolis: Urgent Initiative Launched to Combat Erosion Threats

    Iran is actively working to protect and enhance Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, amid growing concerns over erosion of its ancient stone reliefs. Site director Mohammad-Javad Jafari announced a comprehensive management and conservation plan is nearing completion and will soon be presented for final approval. Approximately 57 hectares surrounding Persepolis have been acquired for tourism infrastructure and access management. Recent projects include expanding the Persepolis Museum and restoration work on significant historical locations. Jafari emphasized the importance of protecting Persepolis, stating it is a national and global responsibility, and plans for international collaboration are in place.

  • 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.

  • This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. This article will be expanded soon. 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…

  • MP Advocates for Worldwide Recognition of Shirez Canyon as a Global Heritage Site

    Ali Emami-Rad, an Iranian Parliament member, is advocating for the global registration of Shirez Canyon in Kuhdasht County, Lorestan Province, to secure UNESCO World Heritage status. During a meeting with provincial tourism chief Atta Hasanpour, he emphasized the canyon’s potential to boost economic development through tourism. Located in the Zagros Mountains, Shirez Canyon features unique geological formations and rich historical sites, enhancing its appeal. Emami-Rad supports sustainable tourism development and improved infrastructure, aiming to transform Kuhdasht into a premier destination. The initiative reflects a broader goal to harness the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for economic growth.