The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Kermanshah

Kermanshah, located in western Iran, is the capital of the Kermanshah Province. It is an ancient city with a rich history and culture. As a result, there is no shortage of sightseeing attractions in the region. In this article, we will examine some of the most famous tours and attractions in Kermanshah.

Taq-e Bostan

Taq-e Bostan is a historical site located five kilometers from Kermanshah. It is a collection of rock reliefs and carvings that depict scenes from the Sassanid Empire, which ruled Iran from 224 to 651 CE. The most famous of these carvings is the Investiture of Ardashir II, which portrays the Sassanid king receiving his crown from the Zoroastrian deity Ahura Mazda. This carving has become a symbol of Iranian national pride and is seen on many official seals, coins, and banknotes.

Bisotun Inscription

The Bisotun Inscription is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 30 kilometers from Kermanshah. It is a 25-meter-high rock face that bears inscriptions in several languages and scripts, including Old Persian, Elamite, and Akkadian. The main inscription tells the story of Darius the Great and his struggle to claim the throne of Persia after the death of Cyrus the Great. The Bisotun Inscription is an important historical record and sheds light on the events that led to the rise of the Persian Empire.

Tagh-e-Zoroaster

Tagh-e-Zoroaster, or the Rock of Zoroaster, is another Sassanid-era carving located near Taq-e Bostan. It is a depiction of the Zoroastrian prophet Zoroaster holding a book and surrounded by angels. The carving is made on a rocky cliff on the mountainside and is said to be the end point of the ancient Silk Road, which connected China to the Mediterranean.

Jameh Mosque of Kermanshah

The Jameh Mosque of Kermanshah is a historic mosque located in the center of the city. It was built in the Seljuk era and has undergone many renovations and additions over the years. The mosque features a large courtyard, a prayer hall, and a minaret. It is considered one of the most beautiful and important Islamic buildings in Iran.

Shafei Mosque

The Shafei Mosque is another historic mosque located in Kermanshah. It was built during the Qajar dynasty and features ornate tile work and stucco decorations. The mosque has a large central dome, four smaller domes, and a courtyard. It is an important religious site and a symbol of Kermanshah’s Islamic heritage.

Conclusion

Kermanshah is a city with a rich history and culture, and its sightseeing attractions are a testament to that. From the ancient rock reliefs at Taq-e Bostan and Tagh-e-Zoroaster to the historic mosques of the city center, there is something for everyone to see and experience in Kermanshah. These attractions are not only important historical and cultural sites but also tourist hotspots that attract visitors from all over the world.

The Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Kermanshah: An Insider’s Guide

If you’re looking for a beautiful city full of history, culture, and stunning architecture, look no further than Kermanshah. Located in the western part of Iran, beside the Zagros Mountains, it is the largest Kurdish city in Iran and has played a vital role in Persian history and architecture. In this guide, we will explore the most famous sightseeing attractions of Kermanshah and provide insider information about local dining spots, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

When it comes to local attractions, Kermanshah has plenty of options to explore. Here are some of the most famous:

Taq-e Bostan

Taq-e Bostan is an ancient site dating back to the Sassanian dynasty, about 1,500 years ago. This site has stunning bas-reliefs, mostly carved into the rock face of a mountain. The most prominent relief depicts a Sassanian king on horseback with nobles surrounding him.

Sari Tagh

Sari Tagh is another historical site located in the mountainside near Kermanshah. This site is an ancient burial ground, dating back at least 1000 years ago. Visiting this site is not only a sightseeing trip but also a spiritual and cultural experience.

Bisotun

Bisotun is a UNESCO World Heritage site near Kermanshah. It is one of the most important historical sites in Iran, with a plethora of carvings and inscriptions dating back to the Persian empire. These inscriptions give us valuable information about the history, religion, and culture of the Persian empire.

Dining Spots

Kermanshah is known for its delicious cuisine and unique dining spots. Here are some must-visit dining spots in Kermanshah:

Taftoon Baking Workshop

Taftoon is a traditional Persian bread baked in traditional ovens. This workshop is the perfect place to see the baking process in action, enjoy some warm bread, and buy some to take home.

Nasir-al-Molk Restaurant

This traditional restaurant in Kermanshah serves authentic Persian cuisine and has an excellent ambiance. Make sure to try their famous kebab or tah chin.

Nice Cream

This ice cream shop is known for its unique flavors, including pistachio, saffron, and rosewater. You can also try traditional Persian desserts like baklava and faloodeh.

Cultural Experiences

Kermanshah has a vibrant culture, and there are plenty of cultural experiences to explore. Here are some of the most famous:

Kurdish Music Museum

This museum showcases the history and diversity of Kurdish music. It is a must-visit for music lovers, and you’ll leave with an appreciation for the rich musical heritage of the Kurdish people.

Tanbur Workshop

Tanbur is a traditional Persian string instrument used for Kurdish, Turk, and Persian music. At this workshop, you will learn how to make a tanbur and get a chance to play it too.

Bazaar-e Vakil

This bazaar is the best place to experience the hustle and bustle of traditional Persian shopping. Here you can find everything from textiles, spices, and souvenirs.

Local History

Kermanshah has a rich historical background, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about local history. Here are some of the most famous historical sites in Kermanshah:

Taq Kasra

Taq Kasra is an ancient Persian palace and one of the oldest standing arches in the world. It’s an excellent place to learn about the Persian empire’s architecture and the people who lived in it.

Anahita Temple

Anahita Temple is an ancient pre-Islamic temple dedicated to the goddess of fertility and water. It’s a beautiful site to explore and learn about the pre-Islamic belief system of the area.

Shafei Mosque

The Shafei Mosque is a beautiful mosque with a rich history. It is an excellent example of the Islamic architecture of the region and the importance of religion in Persian culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Kermanshah is full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path places to explore. Here are some unique experiences that you won’t find in your standard tourist guide:

Bistoon Petroglyphs

The Bistoon Petroglyphs are ancient rock carvings embedded on the mountainside of Bistoon. These carvings date back about 5000 years and depict animals, religious symbols, and mythological figures.

Ganjnameh Waterfall

The Ganjnameh Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near Bisotun and Taq-e Bostan. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet picnic and to enjoy the natural beauty of Kermanshah.

Park-e Ghaem

Park-e Ghaem is a beautiful park in the center of Kermanshah. It’s an excellent place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The park also has several fountains and a small lake.

In conclusion, Kermanshah is a city full of history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. With plenty of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, this insider’s guide has everything you need to make the most of your visit to Kermanshah.