INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Lar is a city where history whispers through its traditional bazaars, centuries-old caravanserais, mosques, ancient ramparts, bizarre-shaped
cisterns, and above all, the warm hospitality of its residents
morning when I arrived in Lar, a semi-arid city in southern Iran, where ancient charm seamlessly blends with modern life, inviting avid
sightseers to explore its wonders.For me, initial impressions of Lar came through narratives, guidebooks, travelogues, pictures, and video
But stepping into its streets, meeting its people, and witnessing cultural treasures firsthand turned those distant imaginings into a vivid
Masghati artisans and the charm of the old quarter, it proved to be a city of surprises and stories waiting to be uncovered
Here are glimpses of the journey that left an indelible mark on my heart.Day 1: Arrival and initial discoveriesOur excursion began around 9
These landmarks, situated in close proximity, revolved around the bustling bazaar.The Bazaar of Qeysarie was a marvel of historical and
architectural significance
Its grand domed centerpiece, adorned with inscriptions attributed to Shah Abbas Safavi from the 17th century, hinted at its rich history,
tracing back to the early Islamic period
QeysarieThe vibrant stalls offered colorful spices, medicinal herbs, traditional attire, and intricate handicrafts, to name a few
This gelatinous sweet, a signature souvenir of Lar, is exported worldwide, from the Persian Gulf states to parts of Europe
Perched atop a hill, the fortress dates back to the Sasanian era, as evidenced by archaeological findings
The absence of lighting on its rugged exteriors highlighted the need for further preservation.The next stop was a Husayniyya and museum
dedicated to the late Ayatollah Ayatollahi who was the Friday Prayer Imam of Lar
and natureThe second day commenced with a visit to a larger Halva Masghati factory
Their precision and dedication shone as they shared their stories, embodying the pride Lar takes in its heritage.Next, we visited the
His private collection ranged from 500-year-old Lari coins to Qajar-era garments and Pahlavi-era metalworks
rams weigh around 40 kilograms, with horns no longer than 75 centimeters
of LarestanIn the late afternoon, we explored Baq-e-Neshat, a Safavid-era garden housing a historic mansion
In the courtyard, local women baked traditional bread, sharing their culinary art with us, which added a warm and authentic touch to the
kilometers southeast of Lar
below ground level, collect and store rainwater, sustaining the community in this arid region
Amidst the remnants of centuries-old homes and courtyards with wooden doors and central pools, we felt the essence of traditional Persian
However, the scars of time and earthquakes were evident, as much of the old fabric had been replaced by modern constructions.Our final stop
was a quaint pottery workshop
Operated by a single artisan, this modest space was brimming with creativity
Watching him mold clay into beautiful vessels was a fitting conclusion to our journey
From the bustling bazaar and ancient fortresses to the innovative Halva Masghati artisans and the unique Laristani rams, every moment was a
discovery.In my opinion, Lar is still a lesser-known destination in particular for its hospitable people and rich cultural heritage.AM
