Alamut Castle
Nestled within the picturesque Alamut Valley near Qazvin, Alamut Castle stands as an iconic fortress with a storied history. A visit to the remnants of this remarkable stronghold, perched in an almost inaccessible location, promises to captivate all who venture here. This is an exceptional opportunity to delve into the castle’s history and the lives of its inhabitants.
History
Constructed around 840 AD, Alamut Castle holds a significant place in Iranian history. In 1090 AD, Hassan Sabbah chose Alamut Mountain Fortress as the hub for an intellectual community and a base for his battles against adversaries. Over the following two centuries, this unconquerable fortress served as the headquarters of a religious state with a network of strategically positioned strongholds spanning Persia and Syria.
Description
Alamut Castle, also known as Hassan-e Sabbah’s fortress, stands proudly at an altitude of 2163 meters near Qazvin. Under Hassan Sabbah’s rule, the castle underwent substantial restoration, with heightened walls and an array of storage facilities to transform it into a self-sustaining bastion during critical confrontations. The fortress is divided into two parts: the western section, situated on higher ground, is larger than the eastern part. Its design ensured the preservation of numerous supplies over extended periods. Furthermore, under Hassan’s direction, the surrounding valley, encompassing lands and gardens, was meticulously irrigated to maximize the cultivation of essential crops like barley, wheat, and rice.
After the fortification of Alamut Castle, the construction of a renowned library took place, furnished with astronomical instruments and a rare collection of works. This library drew scientists and scholars from diverse regions and religions who spent months here studying and engaging in intellectual discourse.
The natural geography of the valley surrounding Alamut Fortress played a pivotal role in its defense. Positioned atop a narrow rock base approximately 180 meters above ground level, the fortress is further protected by a mountain range on its eastern side, with the Alamut River flowing between. On the western side of the valley, towering cliffs over 350 meters high create a narrow entrance, providing access to the castle. Deep ditches filled with water were dug all around the castle to enhance its impregnability.
Ultimately, it was the Mongols who conquered Alamut Castle around 1256 AD, leading to the complete destruction of the famed library, leaving only a few theological works intact. Subsequently, over the centuries, Alamut Castle gradually fell into ruin.
Alamut Castle gained renown not only for its impregnable defenses but also for its heavenly gardens, library, and laboratories that fostered intellectual freedom for scientists, philosophers, and theologians to engage in profound debates.
Visiting Hours
Much like Qazvin city itself, Alamut Castle, situated in a rugged mountainous terrain, is best explored during the summer months. This season allows visitors to appreciate both its rich historical heritage and the breathtaking natural landscapes it offers.
