Rudkhan Castle, Gilan: Unveiling the Secrets of a Historic Citadel ?

Introduction to Rudkhan Castle

Rudkhan Castle in Gilan is one of Iran’s most important historical and military fortresses, nestled amidst lush forests in the Fuman County. This formidable and impregnable castle has experienced many ups and downs throughout its history and is now considered a prominent attraction in Fuman, attracting numerous tourists.*

Join us on a journey through the lush region of Gilan and the picturesque city of Fuman with the Gulf City Pedia website to explore this historical castle in more detail.*

Get to Know Rudkhan Castle:
– Where is Rudkhan Castle Located?
– Introduction to Rudkhan Castle
– How Many Stairs Does Rudkhan Castle Have?
– Architecture of Rudkhan Castle
– Best Time to Visit Rudkhan Castle
– Accommodation in Rudkhan Castle
– Visitor Information for Rudkhan Castle

Where is Rudkhan Castle Located?

Rudkhan Castle is one of the must-see attractions in Fuman, located in the lush and pleasant climate province of Gilan. This captivating castle is situated approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Fuman, near the village of Rudkhan, amidst the forested hills of the Heydareh Alat region. The castle stands at an elevation of 655 to 715 meters above sea level.

Rudkhan Castle Fuman

Access Route to Rudkhan Castle
If you decide to embark on the journey to Rudkhan Castle from Fuman, the route involves passing through the villages of Melskam and Seyedabad. After covering approximately 21 kilometers from Fuman, you’ll reach the parking lot of Rudkhan Castle. From there, a remaining 1.5 to 2 kilometers uphill climb with staircases leads to the castle.

Distance from Tehran to Rudkhan Castle: Five hours and thirty minutes
Distance from Rasht to Rudkhan Castle: One hour and fifteen minutes
Distance from Masal to Rudkhan Castle: One hour and fifteen minutes
Distance from Masuleh to Rudkhan Castle: One hour and fifteen minutes
Distance from Fuman to Rudkhan Castle: 35 minutes

Mysterious Rudkhan Castle

The name Rudkhan Castle often evoked thoughts of a mysterious and eerie place. Castles, in general, are sometimes associated with strange and peculiar stories that may not necessarily relate to their structure and purpose. Castles were built as sturdy and resilient fortifications for defense against enemy attacks, usually designed to be impregnable. Rudkhan Castle, being one of these castles, has led local people to believe in the existence of spirits and ghosts within its walls. However, exploring these seemingly frightening places and getting acquainted with their history and life stories up close might change your perspective.

In the following, we will delve further into this fascinating Rudkhan Castle.

Reason for Naming Rudkhan Castle

In the vicinity of Rudkhan Castle, a river named Rokhun flows to the right of it. This is why the castle is called Rudkhan, which translates to “castle by the river.” Locals also refer to it as “Rokhun Castle” informally. It’s worth noting that in the past, the castle was known as “Dezh-e Roodgan” or “Rougan Castle,” meaning “fortress next to the river,” and it transformed into Rudkhan over time.

Additionally, due to the castle being built on a plateau between two peaks with varying elevations, numerous staircases have been constructed inside for access to different parts of the castle. This has earned the castle the nickname “Thousand Steps Castle.” Hesami, Sexsar, Sagsar, and Sagsal are other intriguing names associated with this castle.

History of Rudkhan Castle

Despite its grandeur, Rudkhan Castle remained unknown until 1830 when Aleksander Borejko Chodźko, a Polish Iranologist, mentioned it in his writings. He stated that the castle had been renovated between 918 and 921 Hijri (Islamic) years during the reign of Sultan Hesam al-Din Amir Dabaj ibn Amir Alauddin Isaac.

The only historical document associated with Rudkhan Castle is a tablet located above the entrance gate. This tablet, located on top of the gateway, is considered the only historical evidence of the castle. It is now displayed in the Rasht Museum.

Regarding the age of Rudkhan Castle, multiple opinions exist, and it is still not definitively established which era it belongs to. Some believe that the initial structure dates back to the Sassanian period or the early Islamic period. During the Seljuk era, the castle underwent repairs and reconstruction and even served as one of the bases for the Ismailis. Rudkhan Castle was a center of governance for many rulers of Gilan and Rasht and was utilized until the Zand dynasty, with Hedayat Khan, the ruler of Fuman, contributing to its restoration in 1175 Hijri during his uprising against Karim Khan.

Address of Rudkhan Castle

The tablet mentioned by Chodźko is inscribed above the castle’s entrance gate, serving as the only historical record of Rudkhan Castle. This inscription is the only historical document related to the castle and is now on display at the Rasht Museum.

It’s important to note that the exact age of Rudkhan Castle is still a subject of debate, and various opinions exist. Some believe that the original construction dates back to the Sassanian or early Islamic period. Others argue that the castle was renovated during the Seljuk era and served as a stronghold for the Ismailis. Rudkhan Castle played a central role in the governance of Gilan and Rasht and continued to be utilized until the Zand dynasty.

Rudkhan Castle Staircase Count

Rudkhan Castle is renowned as the “Thousand Steps Castle” due to its numerous stairs. The castle boasts around 1,600 stairs, newly constructed for the convenience of tourists. The original stairs, discovered through archaeological excavations along the walls and towers, amount to 935. Hence, the castle is popularly known as the “Thousand Steps Castle.”

Architecture of Rudkhan Castle

Rudkhan Castle spans approximately 6.2 hectares with a length of about 500 meters, varying in width at different points. The height of its towers and walls reaches up to 1,500 meters. The primary building materials used in constructing the castle are brick and stone. The castle is divided into two main sections: the “Arg” (residential section) and the “Qorkhaneh” (military section). The Arg serves as the royal residence, while the Qorkhaneh accommodates military activities and the lives of soldiers.

The castle is further divided into three parts: East, Middle, and West.

East Section: This part is situated on a 670-meter hill, separated from other sections by a gateway. It predominantly includes military structures, such as the entrance gate, prison, emergency exit, residential units, and two large towers.

Middle Section:Located at the lowest level of the castle, containing the main entrance gate.

West Section:Built on a steep slope, this part includes various facilities such as the entrance gate, water reservoir, aqueduct, cold storage, royal residence, and additional residential units.

The primary entrance to Rudkhan Castle is on the northern side, flanked by two imposing towers. The inscription mentioned by Chodźko is believed to have been placed above this entrance gate. Watchtowers surround the castle, featuring rooms with eight-sided shapes, covered with domed ceilings for observation. Slanted openings inside the walls and towers were designed for pouring molten materials and archery.

One notable structure in the western part of the castle is the Shahsineh, serving as the royal seat. It stands at the highest point of the castle and differs in structure from other sections. The Shahsineh has two lower and upper sections, with a terrace that offers an excellent vantage point for observing the castle. Additionally, a blue spring, once the main water source for the castle (allegedly brought from the Zardkhoni highland), was previously visible in its courtyard. After the 1369 Gilan earthquake, the spring dried up but was later restored by the Cultural Heritage organization.

In the northeast corner of the castle, there is a beautiful two-story building, and to its south, a mountain is situated with a cave visible. According to local residents, this cave served as the station for guards to signal in case of an attack on the castle.

While many parts of this beautiful castle were lost over time, it remains an attractive and scenic destination for tourists.

Rudkhan Castle Market

At the beginning of the ascent to Rudkhan Castle, slightly beyond the parking area, there is a market reminiscent of Korean and Chinese houses. For those who enjoy exploring and tasting local foods, the Rudkhan Castle Market, known for its Eskimo vendors, is an excellent place. Visitors can also wear colorful and beautiful Gilaki clothes to capture joyful moments forever in photographs.

Best Time to Visit Rudkhan Castle

Rudkhan Castle in Spring:During this season, the lushness and freshness of the forest, the melody of the river, and the pleasant weather create a beautiful symphony of nature, calling people towards itself. Spring is the perfect time to explore the fascinating Rudkhan Castle.

Rudkhan Castle in Summer: In summer, the castle welcomes many tourists seeking refuge from the summer heat in the heart of the Fuman forest. Although the warm and humid weather in this season can be a bit challenging, visitors embark on the journey to delve into the depths of history.

Rudkhan Castle in Autumn: Rudkhan mesmerizes in the fall with captivating colors and beauty. The vibrant nature and forest bestow a picturesque view upon the castle, enhancing its enchantment.

Rudkhan Castle in Winter: During winter, the castle has its own unique charm. Covered in white pearls of snow, it becomes a captivating spectacle, resembling a one-piece white dress, immersed in the winter dream.

However, it’s essential to note that visiting the castle in the cold seasons, considering the region it’s located in, with heavy snow and rain, can be more challenging. Plan your trip to this magical castle in the order of spring, autumn, and summer.

Accommodation in Rudkhan Castle

If you plan to travel to Rudkhan Castle and wish to experience a dreamy night in this place, you can stay in the rental suites provided for travelers and tourists at the base of the castle.

Setting up a tent and camping is another way to enjoy a memorable night at Rudkhan Castle, bringing a lot of excitement and thrill to your experience. This, of course, takes place in a historical site in the heart of the Fuman forests. Otherwise, staying in other nearby accommodation options such as eco-lodges, rented houses, villas for travelers, or hotels in Fuman and its surroundings can be alternative choices.

Visiting Information for Rudkhan Castle

Ticket Price and Parking Fee for Rudkhan Castle:Parking Fee: 10,000 Tomans; Ticket Price: 2,500 Tomans (Note that these prices are for the year 1398 and may face increases during your visit.)

Visiting Hours:First half of the year: 8 am to 6 pm; Second half of the year: 8 am to 4 pm.

Things to Know Before Visiting Rudkhan Castle

For a trek up the stairs of Rudkhan Castle, ensure you have suitable footwear to avoid fatigue during the climb. The total round trip can take nearly three hours.

Only carry essential items during the climb. Personal items like a camera and, of course, a drinking bottle are necessary. Having a walking stick or hiking pole can be helpful for climbing the stairs. If visiting during the rainy season, bring a rain poncho to avoid getting wet.

Carry some cash with you, as the ticket counter at the castle may not have a card reader or could be out of order.

The climb up the stairs of Rudkhan Castle may be challenging for the elderly, children, or individuals with limited physical fitness or cardiovascular diseases. Consider this when choosing companions for your trip.

If you want to save on travel expenses, it’s advisable to bring your own food and snacks, as prices in the restaurants near the castle might be higher than expected.

Enjoy the breathtaking nature and the fascinating Rudkhan Castle, one of the most beautiful spots in Gilan.

Image Source: ISNA News Agency (Photographers: Tahereh Babaei, Ali Safaei Koli), Mehr News Agency

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rudkhan Castle located?
Rudkhan Castle is situated about 20 kilometers southwest of Fuman, near the village of Rudkhan, on the slopes of the Hyrcanian forests.

What is the distance from Rudkhan Castle to Tehran?
The distance from Rudkhan Castle to Tehran is 432 kilometers (approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes of driving).

How many stairs does Rudkhan Castle have?
The total number of historical stairs inside the castle and the newly built stairs for tourists amounts to 1600.

What is the best time to visit Rudkhan Castle?
Due to its geographical location and significant precipitation of snow and rain, spring and summer are considered the best times to visit Rudkhan Castle.