A Complete Guide to the Historical, Natural, and Cultural Attractions of Khark Island
On this island, one of the most important oil export terminals in the world has been established.
Khark Island is a gentle anticline with an average surface layer slope of 10 to 15 degrees. Its highest point is Dideban Mountain, rising 87 meters above sea level. A small lighthouse was installed here many years ago. To the north lies Takhteh Mountain, and to the south is Gardan-e Oshtar Mountain.
In 1916, a railway was constructed from the vicinity of Alamdar Tomb in Khark to the island’s pier for transporting stones. This railway was built by Captain Thompson, an officer of the British Royal Engineers. The stones were used for the substructure of the Basra-to-Baghdad railway and the foundation of oil storage tanks in Abadan Refinery.
Key Locations of Khark Island (Pre-Oil Industry Development)
From east to west, the significant landmarks included:
The remains of the Dutch Fort
Islamic Cemetery
Khark Village
Railway line
Christian Cemetery
Abu Bakr’s Tomb
Alamdar Tomb
Dutch Garden
Pre-Islamic Cemetery
Zoroastrian Towers
Mir Mohammad Shrine
Dideban Tomb
Kar-e Angizha
Two Sisters Tombs (now sadly destroyed)
The Achaemenid Inscription
One of the island’s most important historical artifacts is a multi-thousand-year-old inscription from the Achaemenid era, carved on a coral rock measuring 116 by 85 cm. This inscription, written in cuneiform script, is the oldest document mentioning the Persian Gulf. The stone inscription was accidentally discovered during road construction. Unfortunately, in 2008, unknown individuals caused significant damage to the artifact, creating a deep crack in it. It is a profound regret that such a valuable heritage was treated so carelessly.
Native Trees
The Indian Fig Tree (locally called Lil) is native to the island. These trees are broad, large, and highly shaded, with exposed roots that add to their beauty by wrapping around the trunk and hanging from some branches.
Mir Aram Shrine
The shrine of Imamzadeh Mir Aram (or Pir Aram) is located south of Khormoj City. Locals believe Mir Aram was the son of Sam, the son of Noah (Prophet Nuh). The shrine contains an ancient 12-meter-long stone grave with intricate floral carvings and patterns resembling cypress trees. Alongside the grave are delicately designed motifs, transforming it into an artistic masterpiece. Two stone fire altars, similar to those from the Achaemenid period, are carved near the grave.
Inside the shrine, there is also an oval stone, believed to be an ancient artifact predating Islam, possibly from the Greek or Seleucid era.
Ancient Cemetery
In some areas of the island’s mountains, shallow, rounded graves have been discovered. Their features suggest they might belong to Zoroastrians. However, crosses carved on some tombs indicate that they are Christian graves.
The Dutch Fort
Located in the northeastern part of the island, this fort once had towers and defensive walls that have since disappeared. In 1748, during the Safavid era when Iran was attacked by the Afghans, the Dutch made Khark Island their base after closing their Bandar Abbas trade center. The fort was constructed in 1747 by Kiniphausen and became known as the Dutch Fort.
Imamzadeh Mir Mohammad Hanafieh
The shrine of Imamzadeh Mir Mohammad Hanafieh is one of the most significant historical and cultural sites of Khark Island. It is situated in the southwest of the island and dates back to 738 AH (1337 CE) during the Seljuk dynasty.
The structure features two distinct domes: a pyramid-shaped dome and a small circular dome, with a design similar to domes found in Baghdad and regions near the Persian Gulf. The shrine’s interior is adorned with Mongol-era star-shaped tiles dated 738 AH.
The Nestorian Church
The Nestorian Church on Khark Island, a Sassanid-era relic, is considered the sole surviving church of its kind. Discovered by Professor Girshman during his 1958 excavations, it provides evidence that the island was home to a large Nestorian Christian community during the Sassanid period.
The church features three main halls with Sassanid architectural elements. Other sections include the choir area, altar, treasury, and library. Surrounding the church are monastic cells, numbering about 60, and remnants of priests’ homes. Ornamental gypsum reliefs from the site, featuring plant motifs and crosses, are preserved at the National Museum of Iran.
Challenges and Preservation Efforts
The neglect and lack of preservation of historical artifacts on Khark Island, such as the damaged Achaemenid inscription, are significant concerns. Efforts are underway to transform the island into an open-air museum. In 1958, the National Iranian Oil Company voluntarily funded Professor Girshman’s archaeological exploration. Currently, the company has allocated substantial funds for restoration projects on the island, including the Nestorian Church.
If preserved, these artifacts have the potential to become a research hub, a cultural complex, or a museum, showcasing the island’s rich heritage.
Island Amenities
The island offers various facilities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and beautiful sandy beaches, making it an attractive destination for visitors.
Summary
Khark Island, one of the most important oil export terminals in the world, boasts not only its natural attractions but also a rich heritage of historical and cultural landmarks, making it an appealing destination for tourism.
Historical and Cultural Attractions:
Achaemenid Inscription:
A several-thousand-year-old stone inscription that is the oldest written record mentioning the Persian Gulf. This historical artifact, inscribed in cuneiform script, holds significant importance.
- Dutch Fort:
Located in the northeast of the island, this fort was built by the Dutch in 1747. It serves as a reminder of their dominance in the region during that era. - Nestorian Church:
Dating back to the Sassanian period, this church is one of the few remaining from that era. With its beautiful architecture and intricate historical stucco details, it signifies the presence of Nestorian Christians on the island. - Imamzadeh Mir Muhammad Hanifiyeh:
This historical structure dates to the Seljuk era, with its exquisite tilework reflecting the Mongol period. - Ancient Cemeteries:
These cemeteries bear signs of Zoroastrian and Christian communities and trace back to the island’s distant past.
Natural Attractions:
- Native Trees:
The Lail tree or Indian fig, a unique vegetation native to the island, creates a distinct landscape with its exposed roots. - Sandy Beaches:
Khark Island features beautiful, tranquil sandy beaches that are perfect for relaxation and recreation. - Tourism Facilities:
In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Khark Island offers facilities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational areas, enhancing its appeal to visitors.
With its blend of history, culture, and nature, Khark is a valuable destination for those interested in exploring Iranian heritage and natural beauty.
