Maragheh, city in East Azerbaijan, Iran
Maragheh is a city in East Azerbaijan province, located south of Tabriz on the slopes of the Sahand mountains. The city features narrow, winding streets with old houses and mosques, while several tomb towers from the 12th to 14th centuries and ruins of a historical observatory from the 13th century shape the landscape.
The city was a center of learning and trade during the medieval period and later became an administrative hub under Mongol rule. The famous observatory, built around 1259, was one of the largest astronomical observatories in the Islamic world, reflecting the city's scientific importance across centuries.
The city's name reflects its history as a place of learning and exchange. Walking through the narrow, winding streets, you see traditional houses and mosques that reflect regional building styles, while the lively market shows how locals go about daily shopping and interact with one another.
The city is easy to explore on foot, as many historical sites and the market concentrate in central areas. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since streets are narrow and winding, and it is wise to explore during cooler morning or evening hours, especially during warmer months.
The city is known for marble deposits in several colors, including yellow, pink, green, and white with red and green veins, which have been used in buildings and sculptures for centuries. The Sorkh Tomb, built in 1147, is particularly notable for its fine brickwork, considered some of the finest examples of traditional Iranian craftsmanship.
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