Rudkhan Castle: Large, Magnificent Historical Fortresses of Iran's Gilan Province
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Rudkhan Castle is located 25km southwest of Foman in Northern Province of Gilan. After crossing a mountainous winding route and passing dense and very beautiful jungles, the first thing that the traveler discovers is the castle’s big entrance gate which is grand and huge.
This gorgeous castle is in fact a military complex that had been constructed by followers of the Ismailia sect during the Seljuk Dynasty. Rudkhan Castle is the largest military castle in Iran and one of the most unique ancient structures in the world. This one thousand year old castle is built with an area of 2.6 hectares (6.4 acres) and sits smartly at the two peaks of a mountain with 715 and 670m tall. It is also reinforced by strong fortifications and battlements at a length of 1,550 meters.
This ancient construction is one of the most splendidly preserved castles. It is worth mentioning that all the 42 towers of the building still stand intact with all their glory and the most stunning attraction of the castle apart from its green surroundings and the main entrance gate is its more than a thousand stair stepper.
Roudkhan Castle could be called one of the wonders of Gilan's architecture. Selection of an appropriate location; usage of strong construction materials; application of different architectural styles; formation of a variety of geometrical shapes has bestowed special grandeur to this complex.
After crossing a mountainous winding route with dense forests, the first thing that one notices about the castle is its big entrance gate. The entrance gate is set on the northern wing of the castle and is composed of a gate and two towers on its two sides.
His castle has two sections, namely one royal residence for the king and royal family, and another residence for soldiers and military activities. The royal residence is a 2-storey brick building located in the western section. The residences of soldiers are also 2-storeyed and are located in the eastern section of this castle. It completely dominates the surrounding environment. The east side of the Fort is a bit smaller and has more military characteristics. It consists of two towers, another entrance, a prison and an emergency exit.
In general, Roudkhan Castle is an important historical monument that has passed the test of time. This castle is currently visited by tourists from Iran and other parts of the world. Roudkhan Castle is one of the most magnificent historical buildings in Gilan province which is located on the crest of a mountain and is called by locals “Zhiyeh Castle”.
Source: Iran Tourism Center