Meybod Yakhchal
Step back in time at Meybod Yakhchal, a truly fascinating historic site that showcases both creativity and functionality.
History
Dating back to the Safavid era, Meybod Yakhchal stands as an awe-inspiring monument with over 400 years of history. Recently restored to its former glory, this architectural gem offers a glimpse into the past.
Description
Yakhchal, also known as an Ice House, defies the desert’s harsh conditions by ingeniously producing and preserving ice during winters for use in scorching summers. The process of crafting ice in an arid environment and storing it within a brick structure is a testament to the resourcefulness of the local inhabitants. This traditional technique beautifully illustrates the people’s adaptation to their challenging surroundings.
Meybod Yakhchal holds particular significance within the desert cities of Iran. While many such structures once existed throughout history, the march of technological progress has rendered them scarce today.
Adjacent to the Post House and Meybod Caravanserai, this Yakhchal boasts an impressive height of 12 meters and a depth of 5 meters. Painstakingly restored, the structure, constructed from mud and brick, features two shallow icing ponds where qanat water freezes during winter. This frozen treasure was then carefully stored in a pit. To safeguard the ice, robust walls, nearly 2 meters thick, were erected, effectively shielding the interior from the blazing sun. A dome crowns the structure, a marvel of engineering where the wall thickness gradually tapers towards the top. An intelligent ventilation system is incorporated, with a vent at the structure’s apex allowing warm air to escape. This vent could be sealed once the storage was filled. Additionally, a drainage system prevents meltwater from damaging the ice stock.
Visiting hours
Meybod Yakhchal welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This architectural and engineering masterpiece is an absolute must-see when exploring Meybod, offering a captivating journey into history and ingenuity.
