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Lorestan Province, nestled in the Zagros Mountains, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage. Each season brings new colors to its dramatic landscapes, while traces of ancient civilization and traditional crafts offer a window into a way of life that has endured for centuries.

Bisheh Waterfall

Bisheh Waterfall is a 48-meter cascade that comes alive with the green hues of leaves against the rugged backdrop of the Zagros Mountains.

Historic Railway

Nearby Bisheh waterfall, you find an impressive railway that dates back to World War II, complete with tunnels and bridges that have weathered by time and natural disasters, but it is still in use. This engineering marvel winds through the mountains, treating travelers to breathtaking views, a view that is similar to a tremendous painting that changes over seasons and each season brings a unique scenery. Two photos here are to show tunnels from far distance and two photos are to show bridges and their columns that has lasted for centuries.

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With the arrival of autumn, you can see sharp and rigorous Zagros Mountains before snow blankets the peaks in winter. These mountains are a living landscape, changing colour through four seasons and offering some of the most awe-inspiring views in Iran.

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Lorestan’s beauty isn’t limited to its landscapes; it holds remnants of ancient human civilization as well. A few minutes driving from the city of Borujerd, stone drawings of a goat, believed to date back over 3,000 years, offer a glimpse into the region’s history. Unfortunately, these ancient markings are unprotected and largely unknown to the public. Alongside these historic artifacts, Lorestan is home to resilient evergreen oak trees, and that is why in world war people used to eat oak due to lack of food.

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Felt-making is an age-old craft that remains alive in its traditional form in Lorestan. Made from densely matted sheep wool, the felt is crafted by hand through hard physical labor and extensive time. Traditionally, it’s believed that felt carpets can relieve pain and offer health benefits, and after trying it for backache myself, I’d have to agree that it’s surprisingly effective! They say the wool’s warmth and the condensed felt’s softness is the reason it alleviates pain. The felt-making photos capture the artisans at Borujerd Bazaar, where this ancient craft still endures. I know it seems like advertising felt, but after trying modern house-slippers or bed mattresses I have to confess that their felt equivalent is much cheaper while healthier.

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Stepping into Lorestan’s history, the “Eftekhar al-Islam” house in Borujerd offers a glimpse into the architectural elegance of the Qajar dynasty (1789-1925). This historical home is a testament to the province’s rich cultural heritage, with its intricately detailed design and historical significance.

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Borujerd Bazaar is a journey back in time, as if you have stepped into a documentary about how people used to live. In one corner, we see knitting threads spun from goat wool, strong enough to support even heavy farm loads. Nearby, a craftsman is polishing a metal bowl with tin, preserving a craft that has been handed down through generations. Traditional ovens, like the ones shown in the photo, are still used to bake bread with an authentic taste. And “Saj,” a metal plate for baking flatbread over an open flame, is another enduring tool that is being crafted by hand in the photo. Each item of the tiny handmade collection is fully functional, demonstrating the artisans’ incredible attention to detail.

Lorestan Province is a region where natural beauty, ancient history, and traditional crafts intersect. Every corner of this province reveals a new story, whether in the cascading waterfalls, resilient mountains, historic stone carvings, or bustling bazaars. It’s a place where history lives on, enriching the lives of those who visit.