Qiz Qalasi, located in Ardabil, Iran, is an ancient city with a rich cultural history. It is one of the oldest cities in Iran, having been founded in the 4th century BC. The city is known for its picturesque views, vibrant culture, and its many attractions. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Qiz Qalasi.
1. Visit the Qiz Qalasi Citadel: The Qiz Qalasi Citadel is the most famous landmark in the city and is a must-see for any visitor. The citadel is a large fortress built in the 4th century BC. It was once the stronghold of the Ardabili dynasty and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fortress is surrounded by a beautiful garden and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding area.
2. Explore the Shah Abbasi Caravanserai: The Shah Abbasi Caravanserai was built in the 16th century and was once a stop for travelers and traders on the Silk Road. The caravanserai is now a museum and is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture.
3. Visit the Ardabil Museum: The Ardabil Museum is located in the old city of Ardabil and is a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture. The museum houses a variety of artifacts from the city’s past, including pottery, coins, and jewelry.
4. Take a Hike in the Qiz Qalasi Nature Reserve: The Qiz Qalasi Nature Reserve is a great place to explore the outdoors. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and wild boar.
5. Visit the Mausoleum of Sheikh Safi al-Din: The Mausoleum of Sheikh Safi al-Din is one of the most important religious sites in Iran. The mausoleum was built in the 14th century and is the burial site of Sheikh Safi al-Din, the founder of the Safavid dynasty. The mausoleum is a beautiful building and is a great place to learn about the city’s culture and history.
6. Explore the Old City of Ardabil: The Old City of Ardabil is a great place to explore the city’s history and culture. The old city is filled with narrow streets and traditional buildings. There are also several mosques, bazaars, and other attractions in the area.
7. Take a Trip to the Hot Springs: The hot springs of Ardabil are a popular attraction and a great way to relax and unwind. The springs are located in the mountains and offer stunning views of the city and surrounding area.
8. Visit the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble: The Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble is a complex of religious buildings dedicated to Sheikh Safi al-Din. The complex consists of several buildings and is a great place to explore the city’s culture and history.
9. Take a Boat Trip on Lake Urmia: Lake Urmia is a popular destination for visitors to the city. The lake is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. There are also several boat tours available which offer a great way to explore the lake.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Ardabil is known for its delicious cuisine. The city is home to a variety of restaurants offering traditional Iranian dishes as well as international cuisine. There are also several cafes and bakeries in the city which are great places to grab a bite to eat.
Qiz Qalasi is a fascinating city with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history and culture, relax in the hot springs, or enjoy the local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Qiz Qalasi.