Zolfaqari House and Salt Men Museum
Nestled in the historic heart of Zanjan, Zolfaqari House stands as a grand testament to both architectural elegance and the city’s rich heritage. Within its walls, the Archaeological Museum awaits, inviting visitors on an enriching voyage through human history and the natural wonders of the region.
History
Constructed during the illustrious Qajar era, Zolfaqari House once served as the residence and administrative center for Zanjan’s rulers. After that, the Zolfaqari family, renowned in Zanjan’s history, called this house home.
Description
Zolfaqari House was a sprawling complex comprising eight distinct houses. Seven of these houses served as residences and were designated for private use, while one was reserved for governmental affairs. Today, only the government building remains, a testament to the grandeur of a bygone era.
This remarkable house boasts an architectural style that draws inspiration from the Gothic architecture of Europe. While retaining elements of Persian design, Zolfaqari House stands apart from other buildings in Zanjan. Spanning an impressive 1,176 square meters across two stories, the house is adorned with exquisite decorations. These include intricate metalwork, intricate stone carvings, intricate brickwork, stunning tile motifs, and intricate plasterwork.
In 2009, the remains of three individuals were discovered in a salt mine and subsequently brought to Zolfaqari House. This marked the establishment of Zanjan’s very first archaeological museum. Between 1993 and 2010, six bodies were unearthed from this salt mine. However, three of these exceptionally preserved salt men are now housed within the walls of Zolfaqari House. Archaeological research suggests that these individuals met their fate when the mine walls suddenly collapsed. These salt men are believed to date back to the Parthian (247 BCE – 224 CE) and Sassanid (224 – 651 CE) eras.
Accompanying these salt men are a trove of artifacts, including their jewelry, pottery, and clothing, offering valuable insights into the lives and culture of millennia past.
Visiting Hours
Zolfaqari House and the Salt Men Museum extend a warm welcome to visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during spring and summer. In the autumn and winter months, you can explore this captivating site from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Immerse yourself in the intriguing history of early humanity and the lifestyles of ancient Persians at this educational and culturally significant museum.
