Attractions of Eqlid : The Land of Water, Mountains, and History
Eqlid is one of the beautiful cities of Fars Province, located in the north of the region at the foothills of the Zagros Mountains. With its pristine nature, ancient history, and pleasant climate, it is an excellent destination for travelers and nature lovers. Eqlid is also known as the “City of Springs,” as it is filled with crystal-clear bubbling springs that bring freshness and vitality to the area.
A Glimpse into Eqlid’s History
In the past, Eqlid served as one of the key routes connecting Fars, Isfahan, and Yazd, which gave it a special historical and cultural significance. Some of its ancient monuments and historical sites date back to the Sassanid era and even earlier.
Natural Attractions of Eqlid
Balengan Spring
One of Eqlid’s most famous springs, Balengan offers clear and cool water surrounded by lush greenery and shaded areas, making it a favorite picnic spot for both locals and tourists.
Ghadamgah Spring
This spring holds a spiritual place in people’s hearts. According to local beliefs, it is associated with Imam Reza (AS), and a small shrine has been built nearby for pilgrimage.
Mount Bel
Standing at around 3,500 meters, Mount Bel is one of the tallest peaks in the region and a great destination for mountaineers. From its summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding plains and villages.
Kaka Plain
This scenic plain bursts into color during spring with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque landscape. Nature enthusiasts and photographers always include it on their travel list.
Historical Attractions of Eqlid
Eqlid, a historic city in the north of Fars Province, is not only known for its lush nature and crystal-clear springs but also holds a rich treasury of ancient relics and historical monuments. From Sassanid inscriptions to Safavid caravanserais, from prehistoric sites to centuries-old mosques, all testify to the city’s important role in the course of Iranian civilizations.
Below are some of the most remarkable historical attractions of Eqlid—a journey that can easily become a two-day unforgettable itinerary for history and culture enthusiasts.
The Rock Basin and Pahlavi Inscription of “Dokhtar-e Gabr”
This is the most prominent Sassanid relic in Eqlid: a rock-carved basin with two steps and a shallow hollow. On its wall lies a Pahlavi inscription measuring 2 × 0.88 meters, consisting of 21 lines. It is dated to “the 11th day of Aban, Year 6 of Yazdegerd” (638 AD).
National Heritage Registration: No. 936 (Dec 1, 1975)
Location: City center of Eqlid
Significance: The most important written Sassanid document in the region, preserving the Pahlavi script and language.
Inscription and Cave of “Tang-e Boragh”
Located in a picturesque gorge in the Sedeh district, this Sassanid inscription is attributed to Shapur I. It is bilingual, consisting of six lines in Parthian and nine lines in Pahlavi.
National Heritage Registration: No. 1929 (Oct 15, 1997)
Significance: One of the rare bilingual Sassanid inscriptions in northern Fars, bridging written history with the untouched nature of the region.
Visitor Tip: Access is through Sedeh. Suitable shoes for rocky and wet paths are essential.
Jameh Mosque of Eqlid and Its Safavid Pulpit
Among the oldest religious buildings of Eqlid, dating back about 900–1,000 years. At the mosque’s entrance is a wooden inscription with the date 849 AH (1445 AD).
Its main masterpiece is a walnut wood pulpit with exquisite carvings, created in 1008 AH (1599 AD) by the local craftsman Mohammad ibn Aqil.
Significance: A living testimony to the religious and urban continuity of Eqlid from the Middle Ages to the present.
Shah Abbasi Caravanserai of “Kenas”
A grand caravanserai from the Safavid era, located about two kilometers past the village of Kenas on the way to Aspas.
National Heritage Registration: No. 14262 (Jan 29, 2006)
Significance: A vivid reminder of historic tribal and trade routes in northern Fars, highlighting Eqlid’s role on the Isfahan–Shiraz road.
“Mehrali Farsi” Mound/Castle (Sedeh Town)
A prehistoric site with remains of the Bakun culture, highly valuable in archaeology.
National Heritage Registration: No. 1275 (Aug 18, 1976)
Significance: Excavations in 2006 and 2008 revealed important information about the spread of prehistoric cultures in northern Fars.
“Shahr Ashoub” Fortress Mound
An ancient site in the Hasanabad district, identified as a fortified settlement.
National Heritage Registration: No. 7330 (Feb 1, 2003)
Significance: Provides insights into ancient settlement and defense patterns. Parts of it, however, have been damaged in recent years.
Other Ancient Monuments
Kollu Cemetery (Sassanid period)
Kenas Burial Mound
Mount Bel Inscription – often mentioned in travel guides as a local highlight
Bahram’s Tomb/Spring (Aspas) – a legendary site where it is said Bahram Gur disappeared while hunting
Suggested 2-Day Historical Itinerary
Day 1 (Inside Eqlid City):
Visit Jameh Mosque and its Safavid pulpit
Explore the Rock Basin and Pahlavi Inscription of Dokhtar-e Gabr
Walk through the old town and experience local life
Day 2 (Sedeh District and Surroundings):
Morning: Excursion to Tang-e Boragh and its Sassanid inscription
Noon: Stop at the Kenas Caravanserai
Afternoon: Explore the Mehrali Farsi Mound
Optional: Short visit to Bahram’s Tomb
Practical Travel Tips
Best Season: Spring and summer are ideal for visiting; winters are very cold.
Equipment: Bring proper walking shoes for slopes, rocky terrain, and Tang-e Boragh.
Respecting Heritage: Do not touch or write on inscriptions and pottery fragments; each piece has scientific value.
Guidance: For sites like Kenas, Shahr Ashoub, and Mehrali Farsi, hiring local guides is recommended, as signage may be insufficient.
Cultural and Local Attractions
Traditional Music: The folk music of Eqlid is rich with passion and authentic Iranian rhythms.
Local Cuisine: Traditional kebabs, hearty local soups, and homemade breads offer unforgettable flavors.
Handicrafts: Carpet weaving and kilim weaving are among the most important local handicrafts of the region.
Best Time to Visit Eqlid
Spring and summer are the best times to visit Eqlid. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the region’s nature is lush and vibrant. Autumn, with its golden colors, also offers a unique charm.
Conclusion
With its untouched nature, towering mountains, crystal-clear springs, ancient history, and authentic culture, Eqlid stands out as one of the most fascinating travel destinations in Fars Province. If you are seeking a peaceful, unique, and beautiful journey, Eqlid can be your ideal choice.
