Why Kermanshah
Kermanshah is a major city situated in western Iran, located approximately 525 kilometers from Tehran. Serving as the capital of its namesake province, county, and central district, the city rests within the Zagros Mountain region. It holds the largest Kurdish population in Iran, with inhabitants speaking both Southern Kurdish—specifically the local Kermashani dialect—and Kermanshahi Persian. The population is predominantly Shia Muslim, alongside Sunni Muslims, Christians, and followers of Yarsanism.
The surrounding Zagros topography strongly shapes the area's montane environment, categorized as a hot-summer Mediterranean or oceanic climate. Due to its elevated position, Kermanshah experiences substantial daily temperature variations, particularly during its extremely hot and virtually rainless summer months. Winters are cold, regularly bringing snow cover for at least a few weeks, while the majority of annual rainfall occurs during the spring and autumn seasons.
Human presence in the region extends back to the Paleolithic era, with notable Neanderthal remains discovered in local caves such as Do-Ashkaft, Warwasi, and Qobeh. Early agricultural settlements and pottery making developed in the area between 8,000 and 10,000 years ago, leaving archaeological mounds including Chogha Kaboud and Morad Hasel. Named after the Sasanian ruler Bahram IV, the city functioned as a capital and royal summer resort under the Sasanian Empire. Over subsequent centuries, it developed under Seljuk, Safavid, and Qajar rule, despite facing damage and occupations during various historical conflicts.
A major historic site near the city is Taq-e Bostan, located five kilometers from the city center. Set beside a spring and reflecting pool along an ancient Silk Road route, this complex features large Sasanian rock reliefs illustrating royal investitures and an equestrian carving of King Khosrow II. Nearby, Mount Behistun features a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of a multi-lingual cuneiform inscription in Old Persian, Elamite, and Babylonian, accompanied by a carved bas-relief depicting King Darius I.
Urban architecture in Kermanshah includes prominent structures from the Qajar period. Visitors can explore the Kermanshah Grand Bazaar, also known as Tarike Bazaar, which was established around 1820. Landmarks from this era include Takyeh Beyglarbeygi, distinguished by its intricate mirror work, and Takyeh Moaven-ol-Molk, adorned with visual depictions of scenes from the Shahnameh alongside religious motifs. In the historic Faizabad district, traditional residential architecture is preserved in Khajeh Barookh's House, an inward-oriented historic home featuring brick pillars, courtyard iwans, and a private bath.
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