Hamedan and Its Rich Historical Background (Part 2)

Sepideh Afshar Rezaee

Translated by Shiva Shakib

In the history of Iran, Hamedan has been the capital city of various dynasties. Although it has been ruined several times by wars and natural disasters including earthquakes, it has been rebuilt any time.

Most of residents of Hamedan Province speak in Farsi, but regarding its proximity to certain provinces such as Lorestan, Kordestan and Zanjan, other dialects and languages including Lori, Kurdi and also Azari are common there, as well. As a matter of fact, Hamedan Province is the host different Iranian dialects.

Handicrafts

Hamedan is well-known for its handicrafts throughout the country, while certain handicrafts such as pottery enjoy a worldwide reputation and prominence. Not only these handicrafts meet the customers’ expectations, but they also bear artistic features which are manifested in the form of patterns, designs and various colors. The most prominent handicrafts of the province are potteries and ceramic crafts, the major center of which lies in “Lalejin” located about 20 Kilometers away from Hamedan. Crafts like weaving, pottery making, ceramic crafting and sewing clothes are quite popular among various cities of the province.

Touristic Attractions

The Alvand Mountain is one of the most beautiful locations of Hamedan. This mountain lies somewhere in the center of this province while the city is located in its northern part. Tourists from all over the world are attracted to Hamedan due to its dreamy and beautiful landscapes, green lands, snow over the slopes throughout the winter and also the famous Alisadr Cave. Other places deserved to mention among the exclusive touristic attractions are: the Abbas-Abad Mound, Lalejin, Haj Enayat Mound, Ganj Nameh Falls, Abbas-Abad Valley, Moradbeig Valley, Ekbatan Barrage, Ghale’ Jough Cave, Eram Park, etc. There are several holy shrines and religious places in Hamedan either.

Among other historical monuments and beautiful entertaining sites in Hamedan, these places can be mentioned; Ganj Nameh Cornice, Shir-e-Sangi Statute, Hegmataneh Mounds, Alavian Dome, Hamedan Mosque, Avicenna Tomb, Basta Castle and Temple, Baba Taher Tomb, and any other places.

Souvenirs

The most famous souvenirs of Hamedan Province are: potteries including the earthenware and ceramics with different patterns and colors, rugs, carpets, leather handicrafts, quilted fabrics, and several other items.