Happy TravellerBehshahr, formerly known as Ashraf and Ashraf ol Belād, is a city located on the coast of the Caspian Sea in Mazandaran, Iran. Despite its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Behshahr remains a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more well-known destinations. In this article, we will explore the many treasures of Behshahr and reveal why this enchanting city should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
== History ==
Behshahr has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Safavid dynasty. Prior to the arrival of Shah Abbas I, Behshahr was a small village with no distinction. However, Shah Abbas I was so taken with the location that he made it an imperial residence in 1613 and commissioned the construction of a palace and gardens. The town flourished until the middle of the 18th century, but was eventually abandoned due to internal disorder and external threats.
== Explore ==
One of the most notable attractions in Behshahr is the Kamarband cave, which is notable for three human skeletons discovered there dating back to approximately 9000 years B.C. Other finds included flint blades, walrus and deer bones, giving valuable information about human development from the ice age in the Mazandaran area. Another must-see destination is the Abbas Abad Historical Complex, which was built at the order of Abbas I of Persia in the southeast of Behshahr in the midst of the Jungle. The complex comprises a lake, a palace, towers, and showers, while a mansion in the middle of the lake has given it outstanding beauty. The irrigation mechanisms created during the Safavid dynasty in this region are extremely unusual, which greatly contributed to the registration of the site on UNESCO World Heritage List.
== Description ==
The name Behshahr literally means ‘fine city’, and it certainly lives up to its name. The city is home to many historical sites such as Abbas Abad, the home of Shah Abbas I of Persia, Cheshmeh Emarat Palace, Baghe Shah Gardens, and the Chit Sazi weaving factory. Abbas Abbad is famous for its greenery and beauty, and its historic significance is a major tourism attraction. There is a road which leads up to a mountain through the jungle. In the touristic Abbas Abbad, the jungle surrounds a lake with a semi-destroyed castle in the middle. The castle once belonged to the Shah Abbas. Behshahr is also home to many famous Iranian figures ranging from actors to political figures. One of the more famous political figures from Behshahr is Ahmad Tavakkoli, who once was a presidential candidate. Every year, famous members of the Iranian entertainment industry gather in Behshahr in a ceremony rewarding entertainers. More recently, such members included Parviz Parastui.
== Tourism ==
Behshahr has a wealth of attractions that are sure to delight any traveler. In addition to the Kamarband cave and Abbas Abad Historical Complex, other must-see destinations include the Miankaleh peninsula, International Miankaleh Lagoon, Historical Sefidchah Cemetery, Mellat Garden, Ghohartape Huto and Kamarband Caves, Museum of Behshahr Martyrs, Cheshmeh Emarat Palace, Safiabad Palangan Castle, Kusan Fireplace, Asiab Sar Castle, Sang No Waterfall, Siami House, Mellat Park (Chehel Sotoun Ashraf), Sikapol Bridge, Afghan Nejad Mansion, Tomb Amir Seyed Kamaluddin, and more.
== Notable People ==
Behshahr is home to many notable figures in Iranian history, including Mulla Muhammad Ashrafi, a Marja and Cleric Scholar, Khayr al-Nisa Begum, the wife of Mohammad Khodabanda, Sardar Rafie Yanehsari, a military figure, Ali Yachkaschi, a scholar in environmental science, Ahmad Tavakkoli, a politician, Ali Asghar Bazri, a wrestler, Mousa Nabipour, a basketball player, Ali Rahnama, a futsal player, Behnam Ehsanpour, a wrestler, Mehrdad Tahmasbi, a football player, Mohammad Ami-Tehrani, an Olympic weightlifter, Anahita Hemmati, an actress, and Syyed Abdul Karim Hashemi Nejad, a dissident cleric.
== Gallery ==
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== Conclusion ==
Behshahr is a hidden gem on the Caspian coast that is just waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and wealth of attractions, it is the perfect destination for any traveler looking to explore the beauty and culture of Iran. So why not book your trip to Behshahr today and experience all that this enchanting city has to offer?
