Saed News:Tang-e Shirz* in Khorramabad is considered one of the most dreamy and beautiful natural and tourist attractions in the west of Iran, located along the Zagros mountain range. This stunning canyon is one of the most famous "Grand Canyons" of Iran and has been registered as a national heritage site and a UNESCO Geopark.
According to the tourism service of Saed News, there are various stories and legends surrounding the origin of the name of the ancient Tang-e Shirz in Kuhdasht, which are as follows:
Some believe that the name of this canyon resembles the names of ancient kings and the shapes of lions or other powerful animals found in the region.
Others among the locals believe that the name "Shirz" comes from the combination of two words: Shir (lion) and Zar (gold), which over time became “Shirz.”
Some also consider this area to have been a habitat and breeding ground for lions in the past.
There is no definitive or documented explanation regarding the etymology of this beautiful canyon’s name; however, it’s likely that the name was chosen randomly a very long time ago.
The name “Bridge of God” (Pol-e Khoda) for a natural attraction is fascinating and sparks curiosity. When you ask for directions to this site in Lorestan Province, you're guided to a valley at the end of which lies the “Bridge of God.” But what exactly will you encounter?
Located in Lorestan—a province filled with mountains and waterfalls—this canyon lies near the border of Ilam Province, and residents of Kermanshah can also consider themselves neighbors to this stunning valley.
Tang-e Shirz in Kuhdasht is situated to the north of the city, approximately 55 kilometers from Kuhdasht itself. It is located in the Zardalan district and the Olad Qobad region. Khorramabad, the capital of Lorestan, is about 86 kilometers from Kuhdasht. The canyon is more easily accessible for people living in Ilam and Kermanshah.
Some believe "Shirz" is derived from the combination of the words Shi and Rez, suggesting it was once a place inhabited by lions and used as a breeding ground. Others relate the name to Shirzad, an ancient Iranian king. Ultimately, there’s no definitive explanation for why the canyon is named “Shirz.”
The cliffs of Tang-e Shirz in Kuhdasht begin near the village of Godargah and extend all the way to the Simareh River. As the canyon continues, the walls rise to their greatest height. Nearby, you can also find the Vareh Zard mountain range.
Tang-e Shirz not only attracts numerous tourists but has also caught the attention of the Iranian National Heritage Organization and UNESCO. What makes this canyon so special?
To visit the “Bridge of God,” head toward Tang-e Shirz, walk along its towering cliffs, and eventually you'll reach the bridge and uncover its mystery. Be cautious along the way—sharp and rugged rocks can injure your feet.
The history of the Shirz Canyon goes back millions of years and is filled with adventure, making it a place rich in both visual beauty and historical intrigue. The age of the canyon dates back to the 5th to 7th centuries BCE, making it of great historical significance. Archaeological discoveries such as bronze artifacts, ancient sites, and historical caves within the Shirz Geopark confirm its deep-rooted past.
Studies show that from one end of the canyon to the other, several prehistoric caves exist, some dating back over 20,000 years.
Around the ancient Shirz Canyon in Kuhdasht, you’ll also find thousand-year-old olive trees known as Vareh Zardeh, which are nationally registered as natural heritage of Lorestan. Inside the caves—especially the Homiyan historical cave—numerous rock carvings can be seen, remnants of the ancient peoples who once lived here.
In general, Shirz Canyon is considered one of the oldest and most untouched natural museums in the world, showcasing the remnants of early cave-dwelling life.
What makes Shirz Canyon a pure and unique natural wonder are its diverse and captivating features. Since it’s listed among Iran’s national heritage sites, even foreign tourists can easily visit it. As mentioned earlier, the canyon is known in English as The Shirez Canyon. Its fame and popularity stem from the following natural and historical highlights:
Witnessing the traces of people who lived in the region thousands of years ago.
A mountainous area with a pleasant, temperate climate that gives you the feeling of breathing in pure nature.
Mountain slopes covered with dense and diverse vegetation and tall forest trees.
Abundant rivers, springs, and waterfalls emerging from the heart of lush nature.
Tall, layered, and sharp-edged cliffs covered with plants and trees like thyme, iris, oak, and nettle.
Upon reaching the canyon, you can begin your journey walking between its high cliffs. At the entrance, you’ll find a river that flows along the canyon and joins the Simareh River, one of the main tributaries of the Karkheh River. You might want to start by exploring this river first.
Numerous springs, waterfalls, birds, and even mountain goats can make your journey through the canyon unforgettable. As you move through it, nature accompanies you—you're never alone. The walls of the canyon are made of sedimentary limestone, showing visible signs of erosion. The black streaks on the rocks are clear evidence of this erosion.
Birds have built their nests in the cliffs, and mountain goats leap from rock to rock. You'll also encounter prehistoric cave sites, which is why the canyon is recognized as a national heritage site.
You won’t find a dense forest here, which means your view remains clear and unobstructed—perfect for peaceful exploration.
Near the entrance to the canyon, you’ll park your vehicle and begin your journey on foot. It's recommended to bring gear suitable for hiking and camping in mountainous areas. Needless to say, fall and winter are not the best seasons to visit; instead, enjoy this natural attraction during spring and summer.
