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Bazar Kerman
Pazyryk Carpet Detail
legal frameworks that guarantee the exclusively and shrines, many of which are recognized for
peaceful use of outer space for the bene t of all their architectural and historical signi cance.
humankind. Additionally, Iran’s intangible cultural heritage,
including seasonal nomadic migration routes,
Your country is the sixth-largest country entirely regional festivals, folk music, traditional attire,
in Asia and one of the world’s most mountain- and local cra s; re ects the country’s multiethnic
ous countries. I have also heard that you have ski composition and cultural richness. e diversity
resorts. Could you tell us about tourism in Iran of Iran’s culinary traditions, shaped by regional
for those who would like to visit your country? and ethnic variations, further enhances the
Iran’s diverse geography and climatic conditions visitor experience and serves as a powerful
render it a four-season destination, o ering a medium of cultural expression.
wide range of attractions for various forms of
tourism. e Alborz mountain range, located Religious tourism constitutes a signi cant
just north of Tehran, is home to several well- segment of Iran’s inbound travel. Particularly due
equipped ski resorts, which contrast strikingly to the presence of important Shia shrines, most
with the temperate southern coasts and islands, notably the shrine of Imam Reza, the eighth Shia
where water-based recreational activities are Imam, located in the city of Mashhad; attracts
available throughout much of the year. Iran’s millions of pilgrims annually from across the
natural diversity also includes vast deserts, Islamic world.
pristine beaches, the ancient Hyrcanian forests,
mineral-rich hot springs, expansive cave In recent years, Iran has also emerged as a
systems, waterfalls, protected national parks, notable destination for medical tourism.
and rich biodiversity. ese features collectively Advances in healthcare infrastructure, coupled
support a growing eco-tourism sector and cater with competitive pricing and high-quality
to nature enthusiasts seeking immersive and medical expertise, have led to increased demand
environmentally conscious travel experiences. for a variety of services, including cosmetic
In the realm of cultural and heritage tourism, and elective surgeries. is development
Iran o ers an unparalleled repository of underscores the growing diversi cation of
archaeological and historical places, some of Iran’s tourism sector and its potential role in
which date back thousands of years. fostering international engagement through
non-traditional avenues of so power.
Traditional bazaars in cities such as Tabriz,
Shiraz, Yazd, and Isfahan continue to function as And of course, Iran is world famous for its
vibrant centers of commerce and culture. Iran’s fabulous carpets. Do you have any favorites
extensive inventory of religious and spiritual among these and any stories about carpets in
heritage includes mosques, churches, re temples, your family?
w w w. d i va i n t e r n at i o n a l . c h