Kerman Kicks Off Registration Process for Intangible Cultural Heritage Treasures
Kerman province, a jewel in southeastern Iran, has recently seen significant strides in preserving its rich cultural heritage. The head of the Kerman Cultural Heritage Department, Morteza Nikrou, announced the successful completion of the registration file for seven intangible cultural heritage works, which are now set to be included on the National Heritage List. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage and ensuring the continuation of traditional practices.
During a press conference held on Sunday, Nikrou revealed that the dossier for these seven intangible works has been submitted to the Council for the Registration of Works at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, as reported by ISNA. Among the notable entries in this registration are:
- The camel-herding ritual from Aliabad-e Olya village in Zarand county
- Stone-baked bread from Najafabad village in Kuhbanan county
According to Nikrou, registering intangible cultural heritage plays a vital role in preserving cultural identity and passing down indigenous values to future generations. He emphasized that such actions are essential for:
- Ensuring the continuation of traditional rituals
- Safeguarding skills and knowledge from fading away
- Protecting cultural practices from assimilation
Kerman province is renowned for its rich history and stunning landscapes, making it a captivating destination for travelers. It boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque gardens, and ancient monuments, which collectively serve as a living museum reflecting various periods in Iranian history.
Geographically, Kerman province is bordered by:
- Fars province to the west
- Yazd province to the north
- South Khorasan to the northeast
- Sistan-Baluchestan to the east
- Hormozgan to the south
The province encompasses a significant portion of the central Iranian desert, including the vast Lut Desert. Covering an area of over 180,000 square kilometers, Kerman stands as one of Iran’s largest provinces, characterized by a diverse range of climates—warm, semi-dry, extremely dry, moderate, and cold.
The resilient inhabitants of Kerman face the challenges posed by the desert with unwavering patience and smiles. Each monument in this region tells a story, offering a glimpse into the historical dimensions of its people’s lives, further establishing Kerman as a living museum of Iranian history.
Archaeological findings in Kerman reveal an ancient civilization, with various stone and pottery artifacts dating back to the 5th millennium BC excavated from the hills and plains. This rich heritage is complemented by numerous historical sites and scenic landscapes, including:
- Bazaar-e Sartasari
- Vakil Bath
- Fath Abad Garden
- Shahzadeh Garden
- Kaluts of the Lut Desert
- Bam Citadel
One of the most notable sites is the Vakil Bath, situated in the heart of Vakil Bazaar. Constructed 170 years ago during the Qajar period, it was modeled after the Ganjali Khan bath and believed to have been commissioned by the ruler of Kerman at that time. The bath is adorned with intricate tile and ceramic work, showcasing the artistic prowess of Kerman’s architects, and serves to astonish visitors even today. Currently, this historic bath has been transformed into a traditional teahouse, welcoming tourists eager to experience its charm.
Another highlight of Kerman is the Shazdeh Garden (Prince Garden), a lush oasis nestled in the desert. Located near Mahan, this historical Persian garden features a rectangular layout and is celebrated for its exquisite design, embodying the essence of Persian garden architecture.
In summary, the registration of these intangible cultural heritage works is not just an administrative achievement; it is a vital step towards preserving the unique traditions and identity of Kerman province. The efforts of the Kerman Cultural Heritage Department ensure that these cultural treasures will be cherished by future generations while continuing to attract visitors and scholars from around the world.
