Narin Qal’eh

The central desert province of Yazd is famed for its valuable monuments, each unraveling the mysteries of the past. A major part of Iran’s nobility, culture and civilization, it is an impressive attraction especially for international visitors.

Narin Qal’eh, also known as Narenj Qal’eh, finely portrays the splendor and grandeur of the Persian architecture. Dating to the pre-Islamic era, the Parthian castle was transformed, restored, in Mozaffarian period.A remarkable battle, which led to the victory of Mozaffarian, took place right here. The mud-brick structure served as a military headquarters over years. It was mostly thriving during the Sassanid and Al-e Mozaffar eras.

The 7-storey fortress, with an area of 3 hectares, contained ramparts, gates and towers. It was built on a hill dominating Meybod town with surrounding ditches. What remains now is mainly the central part. There are signs of a nearby village, where gardens, underground canals, and water mills existed. The castle has entangled rooms some of which are not yet explored. In times of invasions, the villagers would shelter in the rooms and stay there till the enemy retreated. Therefore, foods and water were stored for such incidents. In the vicinity of the castle, some patterned pottery pieces have been explored which date from Elamite era, over 4,000 years old. That’s why the castle resembles ziggurat or Elamite temples.

Some believe that it is in fact Dezh-e Sefid, mentioned in Shahnameh, the legendary work of Ferdowsi.

Also a myth suggests that the castle was constructed at the time of Kiomars and primitive people stepped into it through waters.

The relics of the huge castle, a national heritage site, are similar to Arg-e Bam, in Kerman Province, in many ways particularly in terms of the materials used. The ruins of the castle are a draw for foreign tourists and history lovers.