Kermanshah Fire Temple: 10 Things to Do in Kermanshah, Iran
Kermanshah, Iran is home to one of the most important Zoroastrian fire temples in the world. The Kermanshah Fire Temple (also known as the Atashgah of Kermanshah) is a must-see for any traveler to Iran. Located in the western part of the country, the Fire Temple is a testament to the ancient Zoroastrian faith, and its importance in the region’s history and culture. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Kermanshah Fire Temple.
1. Explore the History: The Fire Temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century AD, and is one of the oldest fire temples in the world. It is also believed to have been built on the site of an even older temple that was destroyed in the 6th century BC. Exploring the history of the Fire Temple is a great way to learn more about the Zoroastrian faith and its impact on the region.
2. Visit the Museum: The Kermanshah Fire Temple Museum is located next to the temple, and is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of the region. The museum has a large collection of artifacts from the Zoroastrian faith, as well as items from other ancient civilizations in the region.
3. Climb the Tower: The Fire Temple has a tall tower that visitors can climb to get a better view of the surrounding area. The tower is made of brick and stone, and is believed to have been built in the 8th century.
4. Take a Tour: There are several tour companies in Kermanshah that offer guided tours of the Fire Temple and the surrounding area. These tours are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
5. Visit the Shrine: The Fire Temple also includes a shrine dedicated to the Zoroastrian god of fire, Atar. The shrine is located in the center of the temple, and is a great place to pay your respects to the god.
6. Explore the Gardens: The Fire Temple is surrounded by gardens that are a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers, and are a great place to take a walk and admire the beauty of the region.
7. Attend a Ceremony: The Fire Temple holds several ceremonies throughout the year, including the Festival of Fire in March and the Festival of Lights in October. Attending one of these ceremonies is a great way to experience the Zoroastrian faith and the traditions of the region.
8. Shop at the Bazaar: The Kermanshah Fire Temple Bazaar is a great place to find souvenirs and other items related to the Zoroastrian faith. The bazaar is located near the temple, and is a great place to find unique items from the region.
9. Visit the Monuments: The Fire Temple is surrounded by several monuments that are a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the region. These monuments include the Tower of Silence, the Zoroastrian Temple, and the Monument of Ardeshir.
10. Take a Day Trip: Kermanshah is located close to several other cities and attractions, making it a great place to base yourself for a day trip. Nearby cities include Shiraz, Isfahan, and Yazd, all of which are worth a visit.
The Kermanshah Fire Temple is a must-see for any traveler to Iran. From exploring the history and culture of the region, to attending ceremonies and taking day trips to nearby cities, there are plenty of things to do when visiting the Fire Temple.