Belqis Citadel, Ancient citadel in Azari Rural District, Iran
Belqis Citadel is an extensive fortified complex in the Azari region that stretches 360 meters in length and measures 135 meters across. The walls reach about 9 meters high and are built entirely from adobe bricks and mud using traditional methods.
The site was originally built around the year 900 and underwent renovation around 1400, when new structures were added. These two construction phases reflect the influence of the Abbasid and Safavid dynasties.
The walls display features from three different periods of Persian architecture, showing how building techniques evolved across the centuries. Looking closely, you can notice how craftsmanship and construction methods changed with each new ruling period.
The site lies in a rural area and can be reached via marked pathways, with parking available near the entrance. The best time to visit is during milder temperatures, as the hilltop location is quite exposed.
The walls still show visible traces from three different building styles, revealing how architects preserved and integrated earlier structures. This layered system allows visitors to trace the evolution of construction techniques directly on the walls.
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