Ferdows Hole in the Rock, Natural arch in Howmeh Rural District, Iran.
Ferdows Hole in the Rock is an opening through a limestone hill about 20 meters wide, located west of the town in South Khorasan Province. This elliptical passage cuts directly through the hillside, creating a distinctive natural gateway in the landscape.
Wind and water erosion gradually sculpted the limestone over millions of years, creating the opening that exists today. This slow geological process continues to change the formation, though the changes are barely noticeable across a human lifetime.
Local residents call this formation Sang-e Sourakh, which means Hole Stone, reflecting how they perceive this natural landmark in everyday conversation. The name captures the simple and direct observation that anyone visiting the place would immediately make.
Visit in early morning or late afternoon when light conditions are favorable and temperatures are more comfortable in this region. Roads within the Howmeh Rural District provide access, though it helps to ask locals about current conditions before traveling.
Sunlight passing through the elliptical opening shifts the shadow patterns across the ground throughout the day. These constant changes give the formation a different appearance depending on when you visit and where you stand.
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