Nature
Cottage In Guilan
Pavilion In Rasht
Rasht Museum
Sefid Rood Dam
Statue Of Buffalo Shaped
Akbarieh Mosque Lahijan |
Covering an area of 14,711 square kilometers,
Guilan Province is situated in the south of the Caspian Sea, the largest
landlocked body of water in the world. It is also bounded to Talesh
mountains westward and Alborz mountain range southward. Rasht is the
capital city of the province. According to the last divisions of the
country, the townships of the province are: Rasht, Astara, Astaneh
Ashrafieh, Bandar Anzali, Roodbar, Roodsar, Shaft Someh Sara, Tavalesh,
Fooman, Langrood, and Lahijan. The population of Guilan Province in 1996
was 2,241, 896 of which nearly 46.83% were registered as urban dwellers,
53.15% as villagers and remaining as non residents.
Located in northern part of the country, Guilan Province is divided into
mountainous and plain parts. The mountainous areas from the west to the
east are Talesh, Masouleh, Poshteh Kooh, and the Alborz Mountain Range
which itself is composed of western, central and eastern parts. Western
Alborz surrounds Guilan Province as a stockade such that its highest
summit is called Fak or Dolfak (Nest of Eagle). The plain regions of the
province extend between the sea and the mountains to the altitude of 100
m. and are one of the eye catching natural attractions of the province.
Guilan enjoys a climate known as “moderate Caspian” which has been emerged
under the influence of the weather of both Alborz Mountains and the
Caspian Sea. Due to a very high annual precipitation (200 cm), there are
many rivers originating from the northern slopes of Alborz Mountains
terminating into the Caspian Sea. Having splendid natural beauty, a
pleasant climate, high mountains covered with lush vegetation and
luxuriant forests, Guilan Province can annually attract a large number of
visitors and play a key role in the development of the tourism industry at
national and international level .. Vegetation covers of the province,
which includes lush forest of northern skirts and mountainsides, luxuriant
permanent grasslands and meadows in plain and mountainous regions, are
important effective elements in natural beauty of Guilan Province.
Anzali Wetland is one of the wonderful natural attractions of the region.
Enjoying eye- catching views and rare landscapes, this wetland is very
important both from aesthetic and recreational points of view. Due to its
ecological characteristics and biological diversity, Anzali Wetland is one
of the invaluable ecosystems of the world which has been declared a Ramsar
Site(internationally important wetland) by UNESCO.
The coasts of Guilan Province are amongst the most beautiful ones in the
world. They are very suitable for swimming, boating and other water
sports. In addition to the tourism attractions, Guilan Province has
important historical and religious attractions that will be discussed in
related section.
The history of Guilan is not so clear till the 6th century BC.
But archeological excavations show that the antiquity of the lands in
southern parts of the Caspian Sea dates back to the last Freezing Period
estimated to 50-150 millennia BC.
Some historians believe that human civilization has emerged from southern
coasts of the Caspian Sea and has extended westward especially
Mesopotamia.Historical record of civilization in Guilan at least dates
back several millennia BC.
During that period, “Kasis”, the resident tribes of this region migrated
to other regions for access to better lands. Meanwhile, some groups of
migrant tribes including Aryans migrated to this region due to climatic
changes and increase of coldness in their homeland. As a result, several
new clans were formed of which two tribes of “Gil” and “Daylam” were in
majority.
In the 6th century BC.Guilanians allied with Cyrus the
Achaemenian and overthrew the Median Empire. After the defeat of Dariush
III by Alexander the Macedonian, Achaemenian dynasty was overthrown
Alexander conquered Iran. After Alexander, Seleucidians took the power and
at that time,local governors of Guilan ruled their land independently.
In the Sassanide time, Guilan lost its independence to some extend and
Ardeshir Babakan overcame the local governors.
During the Abbasi Caliphate, Alavian clans lived in the mountainous areas
of Daylam and tried to cut the hands of Abbasi Caliphs from Iran.
Consequently, the unity of Daylamian and Alavian was founded. Around the
year 290 AH, people of Guilan accepted Shiite religion and tried to expand
it seriously . In this period some dynasties with Guilani and Daylami
origins appeared in the history of Iran. One of the most important
dynasties, was “Al Bouyeh” who even attacked Baghdad, capital city of
Abbasi Caliphate, and defeated the Abbasi Caliph. In 7th
century AH, Mongols tried to conquer Guilan, but due to geographical
conditions and lack of accessibility, they could not reach there
till early 8th century AH. Finally, “Oljayto” could temporarily
conquer this land for a short time.
People of Guilan (Gilacks) played a very important role in the emergence
of Safavid dynasty and Guilan lost its independence during the reign of
Shah Abbas I. Russia began its first attacks against Iran before Nadershah
(founder of Afsharieh dynasty).
In the year 1071 AH, some Russian Cossacks assaulted Guilan and plundered
it. Nadershah paid due attention to Guilan due to his high inclination for
increasing the power of his navy in the Caspian Sea. Gilacks had also an
important role in the Constitutional Revolution in Iran. They could
conquer Tehran after two days of attack against Mohammed Ali Shah in 1287
AH. Moreover, their contribution to the movement of “Mirza Coochek Khan
Jangali” or “Jungle Movement” is amongst the brilliant historical events
of this territory.
RASHT
Rasht, the capital city of the province, is one the most
important cities of this region. This city is situated in a vast plain at
a distance of 30 Kms. From the Caspian Sea in the slopes of the northern
Alborz Mountain Range, The climate of Rasht is humid and unstable.
Dominant wind currents from the Caspian Sea blow northeast to southwest,
and annual precipitation is relatively high. The history of Rasht dates
back to the pre Islamic period i.e.the Sassanide time. The independent
governors of this region were called “Guilanshah” before the attack of
Arabs to Iran. In the year 61 AH(682AD), after the conquest of Iran by
Arabs, the name of Rasht was mentioned in historical documents for the
first time.
In the Safavid time, especially in the reign of Shah Ismail, Guilan land
was composed of two sections of “Biehpas” with the centrality of Rasht,
and “Biehpish” with the centrality of Lahijan . During the reign of Shah
Tahmaseb the First, the governance of both parts was assigned to “Khan
Ahmad Guilan” . Finally, Shah Abbas I conquered Guilan.
In the year 1045 AH, Stephan Razin, a Russian sailor plundered the city.
The army of Peter the Great conquered the city in 1722 AD. And they
remained in the region till 1734 AD. This city was again conquered by the
Russians in 1917 Adsimultaneous with the Socialistic Revolution in Russia.
In 1246 AH due to outbreak of epidemic plague, many people lost their
lives. In 1937AD, an expanded revolt happened in the region to get “road
tax” from Russins, but the central government suppressed the movement.
The people of Rash played a very important role in the Constitutional
Revolution. Russian and British army as well as local rebels attacked
Rasht City during the World War I (1914- 1918) . In 1920 ,Rasht became the
arena of revolutionary movements again. When the Red Army conquered Bakoo
in 1918, the navy of White Army took asylum in the Anzali Port, which was
under control of British army. The commander of the Red Navy chased them
and conquered the Anzali Port and as the result the British Army
retreated. This event encouraged revolutionaries of Guilan to establish an
anti-British government under the leadership of “Mirza Coochek Khan
Jangali” . British forces evacuated the city and went to Baghdad. Finally,
Iranian army defeated the movement and a treaty was signed with Russia
after which they evacuated the city.
Today, rasht as the capital city of Guilan Province is the most important
trade center between Caucasia, Russia, and Iran and holds considerable
tourism facilities . The important natural, historical, and religious
monuments of the city are as follows:
- Shourlakan and Cheshmegol springs,
- The historical gardens of Sardar Mohtasham and Meshkat(Salar).
- The tomb of Mirza Coochek Khan.
- Shahpour School.
- Clock Tower.
- Lat Caravansary.
- The old private houses of Haj Mirza Abrishami , Sardar Motamed
Rashti, Seyed Ismail Zyabari, and Seyed Ali Moghimi.
- Castle of Sassan.
- Bridge of Morghanehpar.
- Old public bathes of Piresara and Shahzadeh.
- Mosques of Safi “Sefid” and Jam Jour.
- Several Mausoleums and Imamzadehs.
LAHIJAN
Situated in the northern verdant slopes of Alborz Mountains, Lahijan is
355 Km. Far from Tehran. The climate of the city is moderate with high
annual precipitation. The foundation of Lahijan is attributed to “Lahij
Ebn Sam” and it was called “Darol Emareh and then “Lahijan-al0Mobarak” in
the past.
Oljayto, the Mongol governor, conquered Lahijan in 705 AH.
Then, the Timurlane attacked this region. Finally,Shah Abbas I
defeated “Khan Ahmad” and sine then Safavid governors ruled this city.
Amongst unpleasant events in the history of this city are the outbreak of
epidemic plague in 703 AH, conflagration of 850 AH, and conquest of the
city by Russian Army in 1725AD. Lahijan was one of the main bases of the
jungle Movement in Guilan. The important natural, historical, and
religious monuments of Lahijan are as follows:
- Amir Kelayeh Wetland.
- Bridges of Kheshti, Nyakoo, and Kaysam.
- The old private house of Mohammed Sadeghi.
- Several Mausoleums.
Talesh is called “Tablestan”in the Arabic Language. Till the time of
Afsharieh dynasty, the southern part of this township was dependent on the
Kasgar government and the middle part excluding Astara, namely Espahbod,
was under the rulership of Naav and Tool governments. And the northern
part was called Goshtasbi. After the termination of wars between Iran and
Russia and conclusion of the Golestan and Torkaman Chai treaties.
Goshtasbi Talesh was separated from Iran. Then Espahbod Talesh and Kasgar
Talesh, which were under the dominance of the tribal chiefs of Namin, were
divided into two parts. At present, Talesh region is one of the most
beautiful areas in the north of Iran. The important historical and
religious monuments of the city are:
- Talesh Dulab bridge.
- Edifice of Nasrollah Khan Sardar.
- Sefid Mosque.
- Several Mausoleums.
ASTANEH ASHRAFYEH
Astaneh Ashrafyeh is one of the important religious cities and places
of pilgrimage in the Guilan Province. Existence of the mausoleum of His
Holiness Jalalehin Ashraf in this city gives it a lit of local importance
. In the 4th century AH, Jalaledin Ashraf, the son of His
Holiness Imam Mousa Kazem, was transferred to this city. The important
religious sites of this township are:
Mausoleums of Apir Jangali, Agha Seyed Hasan, Agha Seyed Hossein, and
Agha Seyed Mohamad.
ROODSAR
Enjoying a moderate and humid climate, Roodsar Township is located in a
verdant plain 326 km,far from Tehran in the south of the Caspian Sea.
Historically, the oldest name of Roodsar was Koutom, which was a small
city in Rankooh. The other name of Roodsar was Hoosem that had a thriving
bazaar and a big mosque. Later on, this city was ruined due to unknown
reasons and was reconstructed by Seyed Reza Kya during the years 789-829
AH. This man, who was the governor of Lahijan, changed the name of the
city from Hoosem to Roodsar.
The contemporary history of this city coincides with the establishment
of the Pahlavi dynasty after which it got more development. Roodsar is one
of the beautiful cities of Guilan Province attracting many tourists. The
important natural, historical, and religious monuments of Roodsar are:
- Sajiran mineral waters.
- The palace of Reza Shah.
- Castle of Bandain.
- Temjan brick – made bridge.
- Maydan old aggregate.
- Amir Bandeh Jame Mosque.
- Several maosuleums.
SOUMEH SARA
Located in a Plain, Soumeh Sara is 369 Km. Far from Tehran.This city
enjoys a mild and humid weather, and Masouleh River irrigates it. This
region included the centers of two states of Toolem and Kasgar that are
repeatedly pointed out in historical books. According to some references,
this city was named after the great Gnostic of 4th and 5th
century AH, Sheik Abdollah Soumehi who had many followers and constructed
many monasteries.
This city was out of the governance of Agha Mohamad Khan
Qajar, but during the reign of Fathali Shah Qajar, the central government
dominated over it again. At present this city is one of the developed
regions of the province that equally holds considerable natural
attractions. The important historical and religious monuments of Soumeh
Sara are as follows:
- Kasgar Minaret.
- Kasma brigde (made out of mud brick)
- Mausoleums of Agha Seyed Ibrahim, and Agha Seyed Abdollah.
FOOMAN
Fooman is 371 km. Far from Tehran having a mild and humid weather. The
mountainous areas of southeast have pleasant wether which contribute to it
as a resort. Several rivers originating from southern mountain chain
of Alborz terminate to the plain areas.
Fooman had many historical ups and downs after the emergence of Islam. In
the recent century, Fooman witnessed many revolts ever since the
Constitutional Revolution. During the movement of Jungle, Fooman was an
important shelter for rebellions. At present, Fooman is one of the
developed cities of the province with amazing landscapes and holds
considerable tourism attractions. The important natural, historical and
religious monuments of fooman are:
- Mineral waters.
- Castle of Roodkhan Shaft.
- Historical village of Masouleh.
- Saljoughi Minaret.
- Several Mausoleums.
SHAFT
Shaft is amongst ancient regions of the Guilan Province . The center of
Shaft was formerly called Goorab Shaft that was located close to todays
Nasir Mahaleh village where still some historical vestiges can be found.
ASTARA
Being on the border of Iran-Azarbaijan, Astara Township is Located on
the extreme northern coast of the Caspian Sea, 534 km. Far from Tehran.
The weather of this city is relatively warm and humid due to proximity to
the Sea and to the densely forested mountains. Astara means, “walking
slowly” in local language. In the past, the region was composed of sandy
hills, ponds, wetlands, and reed – beds.
Astara was not an important region till the Safavid time. But since
then, it became important due to development of trade as well as military
conditions. From the Safavid time to Qajarieh period, the name of Astara
was merely attributed to a region between Anzari and Aras River of
which a part is now a component of Azarbaijan Republic. Coming and going
of foreigners especially traders to Russia and other European countries
through this city in the past, caused the introduction of the European
civilization to this region . The importance of Astara has become twice as
much after the expansion of relations between Iran and the Republic of
AZArbaijan.
Interesting historical and religious monuments of Astara are as follows:
- Castle of Mojaver Lamir.
- Mausoleums of Sheikh Mahmoud Khivi and Pir Ghotbedin.
- Imamzadeh Ibrahim and Imamzadeh Ghasem.
- Wildlife and Protected Areas
Guilan Province is one of the most beautiful regions of Iran due to its
ecological and natural aspects. There are diverse species of fauna and
flora in this province. The protected areas of Guilan province are as
follows :
- Selkeh Protected Area in Soumeh Sara Township.
- Sarkhankal Protected Area in Talesh Township.
- Navasalam Protected Region covering an area of 150 hectares in
Anzali Township.
- Esteel Protected Wetland in Astara Township.
- Alalan Protected Area in Talesh Township
- Siah Kashim Protected in Anzali Township
- Laysar Protected Area in Talesh Township
- Lavandebil protected Area in Astara Township
- Amir kelayeh Protected Wetland in lahijan Township (a Ramsar Site).
Pleasant and specific climatic and geographic conditions as well as
abundance of different water bodies, hand in hand with magnificence of
Anzali and Amir Kelayeh wetlands attract annually a huge number of endemic
and migratory birds. These birds are prey birds, flamingo, waders,
pelican, partridge, turtledove, grouse, ringdove, vulture, owl,dull –
yellow partridge, ortolan, spoonbill,kingfisher, pigeon, heron, goose,
crane, duck, eagle starling and … The reptiles of the province are
different species of turtles, lizards, and snakes.
Located in the vicinity of the Caspian Sea water resources of Guilan
province hold diverse species of aquatic life namely fish which are very
important from commercial and industrial points of view. Fishing plays a
very important role in the subsistence of the local people. The most
important fishes of the region are:
Sturgeon, whitefish, salmon, Cyprinidae, Percidae (zander),anchovy, pike,
trout, and… Other important wildlife of the region are: brown bear, hyena,
wild boar, fox, porcupine, rat, bat, rabbit, leopard, buck, weasel,
wildcat, badger, and…
Touring and Accommodation
There are suitable connection roads, communication services, hospitals,
and health centers in all important cities of the province. Most of the
cities hold suitable and diverse accommodation facilities. The people of
this province are well acquainted with tourism. The souvenirs of the
province are:
Wickerwork, bamboo products, silk, cotton, and wool hand woven cloth,
coarse, rug, wooden products, crocheting, and other handicrafts.
Necessary Telephone Numbers in Guilan
Governmental Offices
Tourism Office, Rasht: 42278/23184
Iran Touring & Tourism Organization: 49331/41306
Amaken(Public Places Police), Rasht: 22101-2
Police, Rasht: 23091/557777
Traffic Police: 720481/7244447
Flight Information: 727001
Emergency: 115/64038-9
Highway Information: 33065
Handicrafts: 78208
Meteorology: 667570
Rasht Museum: 27979
Lahijan Museum: 91980
HOTELS :
Hotel Fajr, Rasht: 30991-3
Hotel Ordibehesht, Rasht: 29210-11
Hotel Pardis, Rasht: 31177/31188
Hotel Valieasr, Rasht: 57907
Hotel Kayvan, Rasht: 22967
Fajr Hotel Apartments, Rasht: 3596-8
Hotel Pamchal, Rasht: 43032-5
Darya Pension, Anzali: 34319
Villa Pension, Anzali: 2833
Camping Complex, Anzali: 44650/43702
Hotel Talesh, Talesh: 2292
Tourist Guest House,Lahijan: 3051-2
Tourist Guest House, Astara: 6964-5
Hotel Monfared, Masouleh: 3250-1
Hotel Golsang, Anzali: 23910
Air Travel Agents:
Rasht Airport: 24444
Iran Air,Rasht: 22001-2
Dorfak, Rasht: 669985
Rafiian, Astara: 3735
Morad Tour, Astara: 38681
Iran Tour, Astara: 3793
Guil: 723773
Bus Cooperative Companies
Azadi Bus Co.: 667127
Guilan Payma: 663993
Shisheh: 666188
Safa Guilan: 660070 |
