Deep in the drought-hit Kerman province is Meymand, Iran. In 2015, the troglodyte village of Meymand in Iran was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This long-lasting imprint of the man vs. desert saga is the one where the houses are dug into the stones and merged with the lava cliffs are still visible.
The history of Meymand village in Iran is older than 12,000 years and it mirrors the lifestyle of a semi-nomadic people, keeping the ancient traditions alive in the unforgiving nature. If you are looking for real Iranian heritage, then Meymand in Iran is a perfect place to travel through the past, filled with struggle and traces of prehistoric life.
History of Meymand, Iran
Meymand, Iran, is an ancient village with a history of more than 12,000 years, and its first settlements date back to the Achaemenid period (around 500 BCE). It was inhabited by semi-nomadic herders who spent their winter in its caves and became nomadic seasonally. Its identity was influenced by Zoroastrian rituals, which were in the form of fire altars and sacred springs.
Meymand, Kerman managed to maintain their dialect and traditions through the Sassanid and Islamic years. The only remaining heir of this tradition is the small community of less than 200 people today in Meymand in Iran, which makes it a portal to prehistory.
Architecture of Meymand Houses from the Inside and Outside
Meymand houses, built from volcanic tuff, have terraced roofs that serve as pathways and interconnected units designed without streets, effectively blocking wind. This unique architectural style, with over 400 units, has adapted to resist erosion in Meymand, Kerman.
The small rooms (2 meters high) of the underground city in Meyman in Iran have stable temperatures, and central hearths make the place comfortable for living. The presence of arched vaults and tool-marked walls attests to the protagonists’ daily lives.
The recent changes have introduced discreet lighting while keeping the rough stone textures for authenticity in these cave houses.
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Places to Visit in Meymand Village, Iran
The soul of Meymand village, Iran, is revealed through four landmarks that are each an extraordinary alternative to millions of years of human creativity and customs.
Ashkur Cave
Cloistered within the rocks, Ashkur Cave is an enormous prehistoric refuge that has been around since the Paleolithic period. Its resonant rooms, littered with archaic flint tools and carbonized fireplaces, bring to light the settlement of Meymand, Iran’s most ancient inhabitants—hunter-gatherers who held ice ages and dry winds at bay.
Nature’s skylights break through the gloom, and a miraculous light falls on the surfaces of the rocks where the faintest of petroglyphs are carved, thus providing a physical connection to the dawn of human beings.
Traditional Bathhouse
The Sassanid dynasty’s skilled craftsmanship has given us this underground hammam that uses thermal baths as its main source of mineral-laden water. A complex network of air shafts plays a crucial role in the entire process, as it allows the steam to be introduced in the barrel-shaped rooms that had been the common places for the villagers to meet during their purification rituals and share stories.
It is old but not worn out, and it brings back Iran’s ancient hygiene heritage, presenting the modern audience a chance to partake in history’s soothing moment.
Fire Temple
At the peak of the village, there is the Zoroastrian temple that contains the altar made of stone, which has stood the test of time and where the sacred flames have been burning eternally. Old inscriptions in Pahlavi at the altar site have mended the view of Meymand, the sunburned valleys of Iran from the top.
The simplicity of the place is a symbol of one of the most emphatic elements of the ancient Persian religion – the worship of fire as its main energy source. Thus, a combination of methods of spiritual contemplation and the beautiful world of desert landscapes in the background.
Ethnographic Museum
Located in a finely restored Meymand house, this small museum is filled with items such as handwoven kilims, copper utensils, and ceremonial looms. The visitors are drawn into the very heart of Meymand, Iran, with the ancient nomadic culture through participating in the interactive displays that reveal seasonal migrations, herbal remedies, and oral epics.
The artifacts are so touched and worn that people can hear soft folk music in the background, which turns passive viewing into an active celebration of the culture that has survived.
Cultural significance
Meymand village has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, underscoring its global cultural significance. It is a living museum that offers a glimpse into the way of life of the ancient Iranian communities.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Meymand is its unique language. The village has its own dialect, the Meymandi language, which has been passed down through generations. This linguistic uniqueness adds to the mystique of the village, further setting it apart from the rest of the world.
Meymand also boasts a rich tradition of storytelling, music, and dance. The residents, deeply connected to their history, share folk tales and songs that have been preserved over centuries. Visitors to the village have the opportunity to experience these cultural treasures firsthand.
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Meymand Village landscape
For those who wish to experience the timeless beauty of Meymand village, it is possible to arrange guided tours. Visitors can explore the intricate cave dwellings, interact with the friendly locals, and immerse themselves in the village’s rich cultural heritage. Take part in our guided tours to Meymand Village, providing you a nice visit with a deeper understanding of the Village’s history and architecture.
It’s important to note that while tourism can provide economic benefits to the community, it should be approached with respect and sensitivity. Responsible tourism practices, such as supporting local businesses and respecting the privacy of residents, can help ensure the long-term preservation of this remarkable village.
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Last word
Meymand village is a living testament to the enduring spirit of human civilization. Its troglodyte homes, unique culture, and rich history make it a destination like no other. As we explore the depths of this ancient village in Kerman, we are reminded of the profound connection between human beings and the land they inhabit. Meymand is more than just a place; it is a living, breathing piece of history that continues to inspire and captivate those who are fortunate enough to discover its wonders.
If this sounds like your kind of destination, make sure your Iran visa application is ready before planning your trip.
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