Saturday, May 20, 2017

This red clay village in Iran is an anthropological museum

According the Iranian media reports, this is a village of living traditions, architectural styles (all in red clay), and probably the most interesting example of human adaptation to nature, wherein one can transcend the boundaries of time and space and experience the ancient civilization and culture of Iran.

The village is compact, with narrow and sloped lanes, and houses located on the slope as if placed on a stairway. Here, the roofs of some houses are used to serve as the courtyard for other houses higher up on the slope. The language spoken by the literate people of Abyaneh is Parthian Pahlavi. They are deeply committed to honoring their traditions.

No matter how well educated a person from Abyaneh might be, he or she puts on the traditional Abyaneh costume on coming back to the village from anywhere in Iran.

The women's traditional costume, consisting of a scarf with floral motifs and pleated pants, is particularly attractive.

Even today their costume, way of life and ancient dialect are still practically unchanged and for many anthropologists a reason to travel to Iran.

The architectural facet in this village along with the rituals and apparel of its inhabitants is a sight to witness.

The grand mosque of the village with its historical wooden altar dates to 1355 CE, and its wooden pulpit dating to 1045 CE. And an inscription in the 'Kofi' script is greatly valued both as a historical and religious monument.