The Zayandeh Rood River in Isfahan (English: Life-giving river) is one of the most significant and iconic rivers in Iran, playing a pivotal role in the history, culture, and landscape of the region. Flowing through the heart of Isfahan, the Zayandeh Rud River has been a lifeline for the city for thousands of years, shaping its geography, economy, and way of life. Known for its historical importance, the river has witnessed the rise and fall of ancient civilizations, the construction of magnificent bridges, and the development of the city’s agricultural and urban infrastructure. The Zayandeh Rud River is not only a physical feature but also a symbol of the enduring relationship between nature and the people of Isfahan.
In this article, we will explore the geography of Zayandeh Rud River, delve into its rich history, and examine the iconic bridges that span its waters. We will also discuss how to reach this remarkable river, whether you’re visiting the city or experiencing the beauty of the nights of Zayandeh Rud, a breathtaking spectacle that continues to captivate both locals and travelers alike. Join Irun2Iran on a journey through the history and significance of one of Isfahan’s most beloved landmarks: Zayandeh Rud River.
Geography of Zayandeh Rud
The Zayandeh rood river in Isfahan originates in the Zard-Kuh subrange of the Zagros Mountains in Chaharmahal & Bakhtiari Province It flows eastward for 400 km (249 mi) before ending in the Gavkhouni marshlands, southeast of Isfahan city.
The Zayandeh Rud River basin covers an area of 41,500 square kilometres, with altitudes ranging from 3,974 to 1,466 meters, average rainfall of 130 millimeters, and monthly temperatures varying between 3°C and 29°C.
The basin supports 2,700 square kilometres of irrigated land, drawing water from various sources, including hydraulic units, wells, qanats, and springs.
Unfortunately, due to water extraction, it runs dry before reaching the city of Isfahan. After several years of seasonal dry-outs, the lower reaches of Zayandeh Rud River dried out completely in the early 2010s.
Before its drying-out, the river used to give life to the people of central Iran, mainly in Isfahan and Yazd provinces.
On February 11, 2011, the Iranaian Cultural Heritage Organisation officially listed Zayandeh rood river in Isfahan as the 118th natural monument in Iran’s list of natural heritage.
History of Zayandeh Rud
The Zayandeh Rud River has played a crucial role not only as a vital water source but also as a witness to human history in the Iranian plateau. Humans have been living along its banks for thousands of years, and evidence of ancient civilizations can be clearly seen in the region. One of the earliest signs of human life along the river was found in a cave site called Qaleh Bozi, located southwest of Isfahan. This cave served as a shelter for Palaeolithic hunter-gatherers (Neanderthals), who used it for seasonal or temporary habitation and left behind stone tools and animal bones.
Throughout history, the Zayandeh Rud River continued to hold great significance in the development of Isfahan. In the 17th century, Sheikh Baha’i, a prominent scholar and adviser to the Safavid dynasty, designed and constructed a complex system of canals known as “Maadi” to distribute the river’s water to the suburbs of Isfahan. This system not only helped in irrigation and agriculture but also contributed to the growth of the city’s population and economy, transforming Isfahan into a thriving urban centre in the heart of the desert. During this period, Safavid-era bridges were built across the river, which remain iconic examples of the era’s architecture.
The water from the Zayandeh Rud River, alongside its role in agriculture and urban development, contributed to making Isfahan one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Iran, known for its green landscape and stunning gardens. This river is not just a source of water; it symbolizes the art, culture, and history of Iran over thousands of years.
Bridges on Zayandeh Rud
There are several historical Safavid era and newly-built bridges (pol) over the Zayandeh Rood River in Isfahan, and it used to flow through many parks. The main bridges on Zayandeh Rud River are as follows:
Shahrestan bridge
Shahrestan bridge, also known as Jey, is the oldest of the famous bridges built on Zayandeh Rood River in Isfahan. It was constructed in the 11th century during the rule of the Sasanian Empire. Apparently, its foundations date back to the 5th century AD. The bridge was restored during the Deylamian and Seljuk periods (apps. 1000 years ago), based on the evidence of the existence of traces of the on the bridge. Shahrestan bridge is still in use as a pedestrian crossing in Sharestan village.
Si-o-se Pol
Si-o-se Pol, also called Allah Verdi Khan Bridge, is the most famous bridge in Isfahan. It was constructed in 1602 by a famous commander, Allah Verdi Khan, during the reign of Shah Abbas I Safavid.
The bridge links the north of Chahâr Bâgh avenue to the main thoroughfare in Isfahan to the south and from there to the Armenian district of Julfa.
Si-o-se Pol bridge, with a length of 297.76 metres and a width of 14.75 metres, stands on 33 arch bases, and after almost 400 years, it still has stability and beauty.
Its attractiveness makes every viewer spend hours gazing at it for hours while taking in its splendour during the nights of zayandeh-rood.
Khaju Bridge Built in 1650 (pedestrian)
Khaju Bridge was constructed in 1650 and restored in 1873. It is one of the historical bridges on the Zayandeh Rood River in Isfahan, connecting the Khaju quarter on the north bank to the Zoroastrian quarter across the Zayandeh Rud River. The bridge was in use as a place for public meetings as well.
It might interest you to know American scholar of Iranian and Central Asian, Richard N. Frye had requested to be buried in a small mausoleum on the river bank. Also, Arthur Upham Pope, an American archaeologist and historians of Persian art, and his wife Phyllis Ackerman are buried there. The mausoleum of him and his wife is situated near a pavilion located in the centre of the structure, within which Abbas II would have once sat, admiring the view.
Other bridges on Zayandeh Rud are:
• Marnan Bridge was built in 1599 (pedestrian)
• Joui Bridge built in the 17th century (pedestrian)
• Felezi Bridge Built in the 1950s
• Bozorgmehr Bridge Built in the 1970s
• Azar Bridge Built in 1976
• Vahid Bridge Built in 1976
• Ferdosi Bridge Built in the 1980s
• Vahid Bridge II Built in 2007
• Ghadir Bridge Built in 2000
How to go to Zayandeh Rood?
Since there are several bridges on Zayandeh Rud River, it’s not possible to specify a single route. However, you can get yourself there from anywhere, using metro, bus, taxi, and online taxi.
The nearest metro station to the Si-o-se Pol is Sobhani station. By getting off from there, you can walk for about 10 minutes. Online taxis, such as Snapp and Tapsi, are also great options. So don’t worry about the routes you will definitely find your way!
FAQs about Zayendeh Rud
Why is Zayendeh Rud Dry Now?
Unfortunately, due to water extraction, it runs dry before reaching the city of Isfahan. After several years of seasonal dry-outs, the lower reaches of Zayandeh Rud River dried out completely in the early 2010s.
Where Does Zayandeh Rud River End?
Zayandeh Rud River flows eastward for 400 km (249 mi) before ending in the Gavkhouni marshlands, southeast of Isfahan city.
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