Naseri Castle

Naseri Castle, also known as Iranshahr Castle, is one of the most important historical monuments in Sistan and Baluchestan Province and one of the most distinctive adobe structures in Iran. The castle stands in the center of Iranshahr, on Imam Khomeini Street, and after Bampur Castle it is considered the second largest adobe and mud-brick fortress in the Baluchestan region. Construction of the fortress began in 1264 (Solar Hijri) on the orders of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar, at the suggestion of Naser al-Dowleh Farmanfarma, then governor of Kerman and Baluchestan. It was completed seven years later under the supervision of Master Hossein Memarbashi Kermani. Once the building was finished, the seat of government in Baluchestan was moved from Bampur Castle to Naseri Castle, and for many years the fortress played an important role in administering and protecting the region.

Covering more than 36,000 square meters, Naseri Castle is a valuable example of Qajar-era military architecture. In the past the complex had more than 150 rooms, four separate courtyards, a royal reception hall (shahneshin), barracks, a bath, stables, storerooms, a pool house and the governor's quarters, and its water was supplied by a qanat. The castle walls, about 7 meters high and nearly 4.5 meters thick, together with 9 watchtowers, show the strength and grandeur of the structure. Its distinctive architectural features include brick decoration with geometric, diamond, sawtooth, cross-shaped and coursed patterns, which closely resemble the architectural style of the Arg-e Bam. During the Pahlavi era the castle was used first as a gendarmerie garrison and then as a school, but after the revolution most of its interior was destroyed. Today its gateway, walls and towers still stand as a precious reminder of its past glory. The monument was added to Iran's National Heritage list in 1375 (Solar Hijri).

To visit Naseri Castle, head to the center of Iranshahr in Sistan and Baluchestan Province. The historic building is easily reached via Imam Khomeini Street, and since it lies within the city, no long trek is needed. The best time to visit is autumn, winter and early spring, when the weather in the region is milder and better suited to sightseeing. During your visit, please do not touch or damage the adobe walls, write graffiti on the structure, or enter damaged sections, so that this valuable heritage can be preserved for future generations.