Boosting Tourism: Iran-Turkey Collaboration Energizes Shams Tabrizi Mausoleum Attractions
Joint tourism cooperation between Iran and Turkey presents a promising opportunity to boost the number of visitors to the northwestern Iranian city of Khoy. This region is rich in cultural heritage, particularly known for its connection to Shams Tabrizi, the revered 13th-century mystic and mentor of the famous poet Rumi.
According to local tourism expert Mohammad Rezaei, enhancing infrastructure and fostering collaboration with Turkey can significantly increase tourist traffic to Khoy. He emphasizes that Shams Tabrizi is a transnational figure whose admirers extend beyond the borders of Iran. Such a cultural connection could attract many Turkish tourists, particularly those traveling to Konya, to consider including Khoy in their travel itineraries.
Rezaei proposes the creation of joint tourism packages that link Khoy with Turkish cities like Van and Konya. He envisions a “Shams–Rumi cultural route” that would establish Khoy as a permanent destination for those interested in Sufism and Persian literature. This initiative not only aims to attract tourists but also to generate jobs in various sectors:
- Ecotourism
- Handicrafts
- Visitor Services
To enhance the experience for visitors, Rezaei suggests implementing several strategies:
- Introduce multilingual signage throughout the city.
- Improve visitor services at the mausoleum of Shams Tabrizi.
- Utilize foreign-language tour guides to cater to international tourists.
- Develop an annual calendar of Shams commemoration events.
- Market combined “Khoy–Van–Konya” tours as a joint initiative between Iran and Turkey.
Rezaei articulates that a pilgrimage and cultural route from Khoy to Van and then to Konya could serve as a shared tourism brand between the two nations. He points out that the location of Khoy, close to the Turkish border, makes this project not only feasible but also strategically advantageous.
Moreover, Rezaei recommends introducing thematic tours that include poetry recitations and Sufi music performances, which could enchant international visitors. He also advocates for academic exchanges between Iranian and Turkish universities to further deepen cultural cooperation and understanding.
Khoy, situated in Iran’s West Azarbaijan province, has historically been a vital crossroads for culture and commerce. Its significance is amplified by the legacy of Shams Tabrizi (1185–1248), whose teachings profoundly influenced Rumi. Tabrizi is celebrated in Persian mystical literature and is notably recognized through Rumi’s work, Divan-e Shams-e Tabrizi. It is traditionally believed that Tabrizi spent 40 days in seclusion with Rumi in Konya before embarking on his journey to Damascus.
In summary, the potential for increased tourism in Khoy through enhanced cooperation with Turkey is promising. By establishing effective marketing strategies and cultural initiatives, Khoy can position itself as a key destination for those interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Sufism and Persian literature, ultimately benefiting both nations economically and culturally.
