Dezhmandeh Underground City

Dezhmandeh, also known as the Khoein Underground City, is located in the village of Khoein in Ijrud County, Zanjan Province. This historic hand-dug complex lies at a depth of about 40 metres below the surface and covers an area of roughly 4,000 square metres. Its layout includes winding corridors, numerous rooms, storerooms, stables and even pools for storing water. The many entrances to the complex, including those that connect to the village and the surrounding plains, point to the different uses it served throughout history.

This underground city was probably built during the Seljuk or Mongol era and was used as a refuge from enemy attacks. Its architecture was designed with great care and skill, and vents were built into the ceilings of the corridors to ventilate the air. At the ends of some passages there are stone inscriptions that have still not been fully translated. These features make Dezhmandeh one of the most astonishing historical sites in Iran.

Dezhmandeh can be reached via the main roads of Ijrud County. The best times to visit this historic site are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for sightseeing. When visiting, it is important to follow the principles of responsible nature tourism and to avoid damaging the environment and the historical remains.