Explore Ilam: Journalists Embark on Exciting Familiarization Tour!
In a recent initiative to promote tourism in the western Iranian province of Ilam, a group of dedicated Iranian tourism journalists embarked on a familiarization tour. This event, organized by the province’s tourism chief, aimed to highlight Ilam’s rich attractions and cultural heritage.
On Saturday, a one-day familiarization tour took place, featuring a dynamic team of journalists from various news agencies, local newspapers, and publications. Farzad Sharifi, the tourism chief of Ilam, elaborated on the purpose of this tour, which was designed to showcase the province’s tourism potential and provide insights into ongoing projects.
The familiarization tour was strategically planned ahead of the upcoming Nowruz celebrations, in line with the efforts of the province’s travel services coordination committee. The itinerary was carefully crafted to include:
- Visits to key tourism projects within the city of Ilam.
- Meetings with local media representatives.
- Expressions of gratitude towards the journalists participating in the initiative.
According to Sharifi, the primary goal of this tour was to deepen the media’s understanding of Ilam province’s tourism capabilities. As key representatives of public opinion, the journalists play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of the region.
Sharifi emphasized the dual importance of:
- Introducing the region’s unique identity and cultural assets.
- Advancing tourism infrastructure to support sustainable development.
He stated that both aspects should receive substantial attention to nurture growth in Ilam’s tourism sector. Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Zagros Mountains, Ilam boasts diverse geographical features. The northern and northwestern areas of the province are characterized by mountainous terrain, while the western and southwestern regions are predominantly flat, making it an ideal habitat for nomadic lifestyles.
The province is known for its rich handicrafts, including:
- Carpet weaving
- Rug making
- Drugget and felt production
- Coarse blanket weaving
Inhabitants of Ilam primarily belong to the Kurdish, Lak, and Lur ethnic groups, speaking languages such as Laki, Kurdish, and Luri. This rich cultural tapestry is complemented by a deep historical legacy. Archaeological excavations in the ancient site of Ali Kosh reveal that civilization in this region dates back to the New Stone Age, approximately 8000 BC.
The area now known as Ilam was once a vital part of the ancient Elamite civilization, which emerged around 3000 BC. This civilization flourished until its destruction by the Assyrian King Ashurbanipal in 640 BC. The Elamite civilization was a significant pre-Iranian culture located in the far west and southwest of modern-day Iran, encompassing parts of present-day Khuzestan and Ilam provinces, as well as southern Iraq.
In conclusion, this familiarization tour not only showcases the natural beauty and cultural wealth of Ilam but also aims to foster greater awareness and appreciation of the province’s tourism potential. By engaging with the media, the province hopes to attract more visitors and promote sustainable tourism practices that honor its unique heritage.
The efforts made by the tourism authorities in Ilam reflect a dedication to preserving the region’s identity while simultaneously developing its tourism infrastructure. As the Nowruz celebrations approach, this initiative may serve as a catalyst for increased interest in Ilam’s historical and cultural offerings, inviting travelers to explore the rich tapestry of life in this enchanting province.
