Historic village in Iran recognized as top tourism destination for 2024
Enduring devastating earthquake, the village now attracts tourists globally with its unique story
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) – The historic village of Esfahak in Iran’s Tabas County has been officially recognized as one of the World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) top tourism villages for 2024.
This recognition marks a key milestone in the village’s journey of resilience and revival.
Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Reza Salehi Amiri, announced the accolade, highlighting Esfahak’s remarkable transformation and growing global appeal.
Esfahak was devastated by a catastrophic earthquake in 1978, which initially left the village uninhabitable.
Residents were forced to live in temporary tents.
Over time, the community showed extraordinary resilience.
They rebuilt their lives with a focus on sustainability and cultural preservation.
In the aftermath, villagers constructed temporary wooden houses, known locally as “otagh choobi.”
Eventually, they restored traditional clay structures using ancient adobe techniques, while also developing eco-tourism accommodations.
These efforts revived the village and positioned it as a model of sustainable living and heritage conservation.
Amiri emphasized that Esfahak’s unique architecture and dedication to sustainability have earned international acclaim, including a prestigious Asian architecture award.
Today, the village attracts tourists from around the world, drawn to its beautiful adobe structures and the community’s commitment to preserving its cultural identity.
The UNWTO recognition underscores Esfahak’s transformation from a disaster-stricken settlement to a thriving tourism destination, highlighting Iran’s efforts to showcase its rich cultural heritage.
Esfahak’s story is a testament to resilience, community spirit, and sustainable development.
It continues to inspire as a shining example of how cultural preservation and eco-tourism can lead to local and global recognition.
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