Vali Castle

Housed atop the not-so-high Choqa Mirag hill, the burly castle was constructed under the command of Gholam Reza Khan Abu Qaddareh in 1908. Bibi Ab spring used to supply waters for the stronghold’s dwellers through conduits which led to the central courtyard.

Once functioning as a summer resort for Qajar noblemen and courtiers, the fortified castle contained 22 rooms, connected to one another, 1 alcove, 4 iwans, 2 watch towers, 1 hall and a centerpiece courtyard.

The castle was to some extent damaged over the imposed Iran-Iraq war. Reinstated with the assistance from the Cultural Heritage Organization in 2 uninterrupted years, it switched its function to an anthropology museum, with no change in its name. It has been tried to retain the original shape and style of the edifice, however, renovations might sound inconsistent in some ways.

The ceilings are of gypsum and brick. Sturdy Roman-style arches are adorned with embossed bricks and tiny colorful tiles. It features amazing works by Iranian artisans; floral-motif stuccos on walls and pillars of the monument, turquoise grid balustrades, intricately-mirrored ceilings as well as grid stained-glass windows, all, make it a substantial building. Old pine trees have, additionally, enhanced the view. The structure masterpiece, as a national heritage site, holds a showpiece pond, also gorgeously tiled.

At a medium rate price, you can pay a visit to a fine museum in Ilam, west of the country. Unveiling the exceptional Qajar-style architecture, it is a site to get to know the beliefs and local customs and Ilam’s notable people. It doesn’t seem to be idle during the year so you can pay a visit whenever you wish. But to be on the safe side, you are recommended to arrange a time.