Discover Uraman Village: Iran’s Stair-Stepped Paradise in the Heart of the West!
Uraman Takht village, situated in the picturesque Kordestan province of Iran, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This hidden gem is increasingly recognized as the best vacation destination for travelers seeking unique experiences during Spring and Summer. With its stunning mountainous terrain and delightful climate, Uraman Takht offers visitors an unparalleled glimpse into one of Iran’s most authentic regions.
The Hawraman region, where Uraman Takht is located, boasts a distinctive rural stepped architecture, a vibrant lifestyle, and innovative agricultural practices. Nestled in the western part of Iran, Kordestan province is home to the ancient and historically significant Hawraman region. This area is primarily situated within the cities of Sanandaj, Marivan, Sarvabad, and Kamyaran, extending into Halabja province in Iraqi Kurdistan.
The history of this breathtaking region stretches back thousands of years. Archaeological findings, including stone tools discovered in nearby caves, suggest that early humans inhabited this area over 40,000 years ago. This rich history has caught the attention of UNESCO, which recently sent a team to explore the potential of listing Hawraman as a world heritage site.
Uraman, also referred to as Huraman or Hawraman Takht, is often likened to the tiered village of Masouleh in Gilan province but on a grander scale. Locals affectionately call it “1,000 Masoulehs” due to its unique architecture and layout. The villages in the Uramanat area are characterized by their integration with nature, particularly through steep-slope agriculture.
The name “Uraman” carries significant historical meaning. It is derived from the Kurdish language, where “Hawra” means Ahura and “Man” signifies land or home. Thus, Hawraman translates to “the land of Ahuramazda,” while in Kurdish, it means “the land of the sun.” According to local beliefs, Uraman was once a major city, serving as a government center, hence its name Takht, which means “throne.”
Located at an altitude of 1,450 meters above sea level, Uraman Takht enjoys mild weather during the spring and summer months, while experiencing cold temperatures in fall and winter. The area is part of the expansive Zagros mountain range, which extends through the southern region of Kordestan province.
The architectural marvels of Uraman are truly remarkable. The local inhabitants have ingeniously constructed their homes to resemble a series of long and wide stairs along the foothills of the mountains. Each house’s roof serves as a patio for the house above it, showcasing a unique building technique that utilizes no mortar. Instead, stones are artfully arranged upon one another, creating sturdy structures primarily composed of local stone and wood, often sourced from walnut or plane trees.
Language and Culture
The cultural landscape of Uraman is rich and diverse. Its residents are Sunni Muslims who communicate in the Urami or Hawrami dialect of Kurdish, considered one of the oldest dialects of the northwestern Iranian language, Zaza-Gorani. A survey conducted in 1996 indicated that approximately 40,000 individuals worldwide speak this dialect.
Traditional Kurdish attire is a vibrant aspect of Uraman’s culture. Women typically wear a long gown complemented by a vest or long-sleeved jacket, paired with an underdress and puffy pants. Younger women often don brightly colored dresses adorned with beads and sequins, while older women prefer darker hues and traditional head coverings. Men dress in baggy trousers fitted at the ankles, a shirt, and a vest, often accompanied by a traditional felt jacket known as Kolabal.
Folk music and dance are integral to the Uramani culture. The locals celebrate their heritage through traditional dances like Halparke and a unique style of singing called Siah Cheshmane, which focuses on storytelling without instrumental accompaniment. Handicrafts such as woolen rugs (Jajim), wooden cutlery, and cotton shoes are also popular among the local artisans.
Traditional Ceremony of Pir-e Shalyar
One of the most significant cultural events in Uraman is the traditional ceremony of Pir-e Shalyar. This celebration highlights the village’s rich heritage and is characterized by vibrant festivities that express gratitude towards Jamasb’s son. This event, which has been celebrated for over 950 years, is a testament to the village’s enduring customs and traditions.
According to local legends, Pir-e Shalyar possessed magical healing powers and was known to bless the land with fertility during challenging times. His association with pre-Islamic, Zoroastrian traditions adds depth to this intriguing narrative. The story recounts how he cured Shah-Bahar Khatoun, the beloved daughter of the king of Bukhara, leading to his marriage to her.
During the ceremony, participants from neighboring villages trek through snow to reach Uraman Takht, engaging in several days of festivities and prayers. The celebration features cattle sacrifices, traditional Kurdish rhythmic movements, and the preparation of local dishes like cheshin (a type of soup). This event unfolds over three stages, each occurring on consecutive days over three weeks.
The first day marks the arrival of cattle raisers who sacrifice their livestock at Pir-e Shalyar’s Garden. The meat is shared among attendees, and portions are used to prepare food for the feast, replicating practices that have been in place for nearly a millennium. This ancient ceremony fosters unity, brotherhood, and collaboration among the villagers to address communal challenges.
Despite minor changes over the years, the ceremony’s mythological roots and symbols remain intact, continuing to resonate with the people of Uraman Takht. The enduring spirit of this event reflects the village’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity and heritage.
