Bam, Historical city with ancient citadel in Kerman Province, Iran
Bam sits in Kerman Province at about 1,060 meters elevation along the Bam River, surrounded by date palm plantations and farmland. The city centers on the Arg-e Bam fortress, a large mud-brick complex spanning several quarters for living, trading, and defense.
The Arg-e Bam fortress began as a Sasanian-era stronghold and served for centuries as both a military site and trade hub. The complex was abandoned in the early 1900s, which helped preserve its original mud-brick architecture intact.
Persian and Islamic building styles shape the appearance of structures throughout the city, while date farming and traditional crafts remain central to how people live and work here. These practices continue to define daily routines and local identity.
Arriving in the province and traveling from nearby centers makes visiting most straightforward. The fortress grounds are large, so wear sturdy shoes and allow several hours to explore the various sections and buildings throughout the complex.
An intricate network of qanats—underground water channels—enables farming here despite minimal rainfall in this desert region. These ancient engineering works remain visible in the landscape around the fortress today.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
