
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Kermānshāh, Iran
1. Anahita Temple Ruins
Ancient fire temple dedicated to Anahita, the goddess of fertility and water. Unique triple-cone shaped structure.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion.
- Architectural Uniqueness: Triple-cone shaped structure is rare in the Middle East.
- Natural Surroundings: Located amidst beautiful mountain scenery.
2. Tagh-e Bostan Rock Reliefs
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Sasanian rock carvings and reliefs. Showcases the rich artistic heritage of the region.
- Artistic Legacy: Examples of ancient Persian art.
- Historical Insights: Provides a glimpse into the Sasanian Empire's culture and history.
- Natural Setting: Carved into the side of a mountain, surrounded by lush gardens.
3. Kouh-e Daneshkada
Mysterious stone heads carved into a mountain, likely from the Parthian period. A lesser-known enigma of Kermanshah.
- Historical Puzzle: The origin and purpose of these stone heads remain a mystery.
- Natural Setting: Carved into the cliffs, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Photography Opportunities: Ideal for unique and intriguing photos.
4. Tall-e Hisar Fortress
An ancient castle with a history dating back to the Achaemenid period. Unique for its multiple layers and defense systems.
- Historical Layers: Illustrates various periods of Kermanshah's history.
- Architectural Design: Features multiple layers and complex defense systems.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape.
5. Qaleh-ye Sultaniya
A well-preserved castle from the Saljuq era. Unique for its octagonal design and intricate architectural details.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the Saljuq dynasty's architecture.
- Architectural Design: Features an octagonal design, a rarity in castles of the era.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides beautiful backdrops for photos.
6. Bisotun Inscription
An ancient Persian inscription carved on a cliff by Darius the Great. Unique for its historical importance and size.
- Historical Importance: One of the oldest known texts detailing Persia's history.
- Size: The relief measures approximately 15 meters tall and 25 meters wide.
- Natural Setting: Carved into a mountain, surrounded by beautiful nature.
7. Shapour Bath
An ancient Sasanian bathhouse believed to have been used by King Shapur II. Unique for its historical significance and architectural features.
- Historical Significance: Associated with the Sasanian Empire's royalty.
- Architectural Design: Features a unique central pool design.
- Preservation Efforts: Currently undergoing restoration to preserve its historical integrity.
8. Tekieh-ye Jomeh Square
A traditional Iranian square filled with tekiyehs (religious structures). Unique for its lively atmosphere and cultural significance.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into traditional Iranian culture.
- Lively Atmosphere: Filled with vendors, music, and people during religious gatherings.
- Architectural Design: Features traditional Persian architecture.
9. Hekarliyan Bridge
A unique double-deck bridge built during the Sasanian period. Unique for its construction and historical importance.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest bridges in Iran.
- Construction Technique: Features a unique double-deck design.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
10. Baladh-e Kuhnoush
An ancient settlement in the Zagros Mountains, known for its unique stone houses. Unique for its remote location and traditional architecture.
- Cultural Experience: Provides a glimpse into a traditional Iranian mountain village.
- Remote Location: Located in the rugged Zagros Mountains, offering breathtaking views.
- Traditional Architecture: Features unique stone houses built into the mountainside.
11. Behistun National Park
A national park home to the Bisotun Inscription and diverse wildlife. Unique for its cultural and natural offerings.
- Historical Importance: Home to one of the world's oldest historical texts.
- Natural Beauty: Features diverse landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and forests.
- Wildlife Diversity: Hosts a variety of wildlife, such as the Asiatic black bear and Persian leopard.
12. Kouh-e Rostam
A mountain with large rock carvings of Zoroastrian deities. Unique for its religious significance and size.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion.
- Size: The carvings are approximately 5 meters tall.
- Natural Setting: Carved into a mountain, surrounded by beautiful nature.
13. Chogha Zanbil Ziggurat
An ancient Elamite ziggurat and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unique for its well-preserved design.
- Historical Significance: Illustrates the Elamite civilization's architecture.
- Architectural Design: Features a well-preserved ziggurat design.
- Preservation Efforts: Currently undergoing restoration to preserve its historical integrity.
14. Qaleh-ye Farashband
An ancient castle from the Seljuq period. Unique for its remote location and natural surroundings.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into the Seljuq dynasty's architecture.
- Remote Location: Located in a remote, picturesque area.
- Natural Setting: Surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys.
15. Takht-e Soleyman Fire Temple
An ancient fire temple dedicated to Ahura Mazda. Unique for its religious significance and architectural design.
- Historical Significance: Offers insights into Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion.
- Architectural Design: Features a unique fire-altar design.
- Natural Setting: Located amidst beautiful mountain scenery.