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Alamut
It is
a region in the western edge of the Alborz massif, between the dry
and barren plain of Qazvin in the south and the densely forested
slopes of the Mazandaran province in the north. Starting from Qazvin
toward Alamut, passing through the first range of hills, curvatures,
forms, scars, wrinkles are significant themes in nature's composition
of this area. |
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Valley
of the Assassins
The
old capital of highlands, the fortress of Senex de Monte, the Old
Man of the Mountain, the King of the Assassins, the greatest wizard
of all time...
These are phrases commonly used by ancient travelers and storytellers
worldwide referring to the Alamut, which was home to several fearful
fortresses furtively built by the devoted followers of legendary
Hasan-e Sabbah known as the assassins (Hashishins). The ruins of
castles are one of the historical attractions of the region and
Iran. |
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Shahraks
A road
to the north near Qazvin leads to Alamut. After passing through
an initial range of hills, it winds up to a dry and rocky mountainous
area. The mountains ascend sharply into valleys dotted with villages
and patches of greens which are called Shahraks and are reachable
by tight hairpin roads. Houses are mostly made of stone with flat
roofs. |
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Regional
Products
Most
of the villages are bordered with orchards, produce fruits and cultivate
wheat. Except for the main Alamut valley, where the Shahrud river
is formed by confluence of the Taliqan and Alamut rivers, making
it suitable for rice-farming. Their income is supplemented by raising
sheep, goats and cows. Grape orchards are common place in the region. |
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