Rasht, the capital city of Gilan province, is the largest and most populated city located on the coast of the Caspian Sea. This major tourist attraction is known as the City of Silver Rain. In 2015, the city was added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a creative city of gastronomy. Due to the humidity and rainy climate, Rasht is one of the most important rice and vegetable producers in the country. The city offers lush and beautiful nature. The people of Rasht speak Gilaki. With 12-15 million visitors every year, Rasht City is one of the most popular holiday destinations among Iranians.
History of the City
Located on the Silk Road, Rasht has been the gateway to the modern civilization of Europe for a long time. Rasht City dates back to the pre-Islamic era in the Sassanid period. In the post-Islamic era, in 1536, the Safavids-sized Rasht. Under the order of Peter the Great, in 1661 the Russian forces attacked Gilan. They kept the city occupied until 1732. The City of Rasht also had a key role in the crucial times of Iran’s history, including the Constitutional Revolution, the Jangal Movement of Gilan, and the 1979 Revolution in Iran.
Rasht city Attractions
Rasht Museum
The 2-story structure of the Rasht Museum belonged to Mirza Hossein Khan Kasmaie, (an ally of Mirza Kuchak Khan Jangali). This small museum is well presented in a 1930s house. Here you can find 3000-year-old terracotta riton drinking horns in the shape of bulls, rams, and deer. Purchased by the Cultural and Arts Organization in 1970, the structure was then converted into a museum. The museum comprises three sections named as, the archaeological, anthropological, and a sector displaying documents.
Shahrdari Square
As the beating heart of Rasht City, Shahrdari Square is one of the most important attractions of the city. This square is surrounded by several historical monuments such as a clock tower, the post building, the historic Iran hotel, and the city hall. This city hall building (Shahrdari) is the first one built in Iran. Built between 1919 and 1924, the Shahrdari Square is still the main square of Rasht. Saint Petersburg City inspired the architecture of this square and the beautiful surrounding buildings. This is the spot for an evening stroll to enjoy the weather.
Gilan Rural Heritage Museum
As the first eco-museum in Iran, the Gilan Rural Heritage Museum is located in Saravan Park. The museum is a perfect representation of the culture and lifestyle of the people of Gilan. Each part of this vast and interesting museum is organized like a separate village with rural houses, mosques, schools, and other structures preserved in their original form. While visiting Saravan Park you can also buy local food and handicrafts.
Rasht Grand Bazaar
Unlike most traditional bazaars in Iran, Rasht Grand Bazaar is an open-air one. This bazaar is a must-visit in the city of Rasht where you can buy souvenirs, local food, etc. There are also 14 caravanserais in this bazaar which date back to the Qajar and early Pahlavi era.
Anzali Lagoon
Anzali Lagoon is one of the most significant and unique lagoons in Iran. This spectacular lagoon is famous for its beautiful Indian lotuses seen in spring. A variety of fish species and migrating birds make this lagoon amazingly beautiful. While visiting Anzali Lagoon, you can enjoy activities such as kayaking, boat riding, and fishing.
Saqalaksar Lake
Saqalaksar Lake is located 15 km south of Rasht. The lake water is supplied by the spring fountains of the region. Located around the tomb of Agha Seyyed Sharif, this is one of the largest lakes. Many travelers come to the village of Saqalaksar all year round. With 600 meters in length and 500 meters in width, the Saqalaksar Lake is located 64 meters above sea level. The term “Saqalaksar” means the place where birds drink water.
Tomb of Mirza Kuchak Khan Jangali
The tomb of Mirza Kuchak Khan Jangali is located in the south of Rasht. Mirza Kuchak Khan Jangali was a fighter of the constitutional revolution and leader of the Jangal movement who fought against the violation of borders and the independence of Iran from foreigners. The elements that make up this building are mostly bricks, tiles, clay, and wood. The bodies of the militants of the Jangal movement are buried around the mausoleum. Also, the Kolaah Farangi Palace, the Mirza Kuchak Khan house museum, and the Ganjineh Museum are some other tourist attractions nearby.
Shapour School
Shapour School was one of the primary structures of the early Pahlavi period. It was the first school building in Gilan. There is also another ancient school by the name of Shaheed Beheshti in Rasht which is related to the Qajar period.
Food in Rasht
The city of Rasht, offering creative and delicious food, has been added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a creative city of gastronomy. With more than 170 recipes, Gilan cuisine is mostly garlic-stoke and vegetable-rich. The most well-known food in Rasht is Mirza Qasemi, Torsh-e Tareh, Anar-Bij, Sir-Qelyeh, Baqali-Qatoq, kal Kabab, Aloo Mosamma, and sour Kebab.
Rasht Souvenirs
As the city is famous for its variety of foods, Rasht offers meals filled with fresh walnuts, olives, rice, fish, etc. All of these ingredients are among Rasht's souvenirs. Also, Tea and sweets (Reshteh Khoshkar & Kolucheh) are other souvenirs of the city. Rasht handicrafts also make great souvenirs, such as knitwear clothes, wicker baskets, and ground cloth.
Conclusion
Rasht, the capital of Gilan province in Iran, is a city rich in historical, cultural, and natural beauty. It’s known for its unique attractions such as the Gilan Rural Heritage Museum, which provides a glimpse into the traditional life of the region. The city’s Saravan Park, Eynak Wetland, and Bujagh International Wetland are perfect for nature lovers. The Rasht Bazaar, one of the largest roofless markets in Iran, offers a vibrant shopping experience. Other notable attractions include Mohtasham Garden, Kolah Farangi Mansion, and Saghalaksar River. With its diverse attractions and friendly locals, Rasht is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of Iran.
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