Arsanjan (in Middle Persian: Arsangan) is a city in Fars Province, located 120 kilometers northeast of Shiraz. This city is situated in the central district of Arsanjan County.
Arsanjan is one of the cities in Fars Province, located 120 kilometers northeast of Shiraz. This city is the third safest city in the Middle East and the second safest city in Iran, as designated by UNESCO. The city of Arsanjan is situated in the central district of Arsanjan County, and it is 30 kilometers away from Saadat Shahr and the Tehran-Shiraz highway.
The original name of this city was Arsangan, which is derived from two parts: "Arsen" meaning pleasant weather and "Gan" meaning place or location. After the Arab invasion of Iran and the change in the language of the Iranians, the name of the city changed to Arsanjan. Arsanjan has an ancient history, and many historical books such as "Farsnameh Nasiri," "Asar al-Ajam," "Bustan al-Sayyah," "Da'ira al-Ma'arif," and many others mention it in detail. However, the exact historical date of the city's founding is unclear. Due to numerous archaeological findings, some historians and archaeologists estimate its establishment to be over 2,500 years ago, before the advent of Islam.
Arsanjan is surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains with breathtaking views. Notable attractions include the lush natural forests of Benab, Fijan, Khalil Beg, Tang Shikan, spring areas, Daal Nishin Heights, Qalat Peak, Tashk Lake, the Cave of Zahhak, Shir Khon Spring, Pir-e-Basfa, the single tree growing on a rock (Green Pearl), and the green gardens to the north, south, and west of Arsanjan. Given that Benab's water runs through the forest year-round, it is an excellent place for recreational development.
The flora and trees in the region include ancient trees such as buckthorn, wild fig, tamarisk, and plants like thyme, wild mint, mushrooms, and many others.
Attractions of Arsanjan:
Ivān-e-Qadamgāh: This monument dates back to the Achaemenid era. It consists of two stone porticoes carved into a rocky hill, with carved designs on the upper portico's stone wall. Nearby is an ancient cemetery containing graves dating back to pre-Islamic and Qajar periods.
Jāme' Mosque of Arsanjan: Built during the Safavid period, this mosque is located near Saeedieh School and is one of the most important mosques in Fars Province. It is known for its beautiful brickwork and structural design.
Tel-e-Timuran: Located a kilometer west of the village of Kushk, this mound has archaeological significance, dating back to the pre-Islamic era.
Cave of Zahhak: Situated 22 kilometers from Arsanjan near the village of Vali Abad, the cave is famous for its beautiful entrance and historical significance, with a length of around 60 meters.
Pir-e-Basfa: A large and beautiful stone arch located at the foot of the Chenar Mountain, this natural phenomenon has become a place of pilgrimage and leisure for locals, especially during holidays.
Saidieh Seminary: Founded around 1085 AH, the seminary continues its religious education legacy today. The architecture of the seminary is robust, with four iwans and individual chambers, and it has been a place for religious students for centuries.
