Restoration of 17th-century Aveh caravanserai underway

INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
TEHRAN - A new phase of restoration work has commenced on a Shah Abbasi Caravanserai in the historic town of Aveh, located in Saveh county
of Markazi province.The current phase of the restoration involves key activities such as replacing eroded bricks, repointing and paving
tourism chief said on Thursday.During a visit to the site, Hossein Mahmoudi, also emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the
once prosperous caravanserai.The official highlighted the architectural and locational importance of the Aveh caravanserai, noting its
potential as a major tourist attraction in the province
caravanserai not only preserves history and culture but also serves as an economic opportunity to attract tourists
job creation and economic growth in the area, noting that an increase in tourist numbers would help local businesses thrive, ultimately
improving the quality of life for residents.It is one of the 999 caravanserais constructed upon the order of Shah Abbas the Great, who was
the fifth Safavid shah of Iran from 1588 to 1629.The monument enjoys a symmetrical plan of four iwans, representing the classic form of a
caravanserai
It consists of various sections, including a vast central courtyard, entrance, lodging chambers, and stables.For long, Iranian caravanserais
have been a testimony to the rich circuits of traveling and trade in ancient Iran, providing shelter, food, and water for caravans,
pilgrims, and other trekkers.Caravanserai, derived from the compound of "caravan" and "Sara," symbolized a haven for groups of travelers
These structures typically boasted massive portals supported by sturdy walls, with guest rooms encircling a central courtyard and stables
tucked behind them, often accessible through yard corners
The earliest caravanserais in Iran trace back to the Achaemenid era (c
550 - 330 BC).Last year, a selection of 54 centuries-old roadside inns won a UNESCO label under the name: The Persian Caravanserai
examining the proposed caravanserais located in 24 provinces across the country.AM