Zonuzaq Village

Zonuzaq is one of the most beautiful and ancient terraced villages in Iran. It lies in Zonuzaq Rural District, in the Central District of Marand County, East Azerbaijan Province, about 30 kilometers northwest of Marand. This mountain village sits at an altitude of around 1,700 meters above sea level, enclosed by towering mountains and lush orchards. Because of its terraced houses with red-colored facades, it is known as the "Red Masuleh." Zonuzaq's history goes back many centuries. Its houses from the Safavid era, its historic cemetery with gravestones from the 9th century AH, and its valuable traditional fabric have made it one of the most important historical and natural tourist destinations in northwest Iran.

The most remarkable feature of Zonuzaq is its terraced architecture and dense layout: the roof of each house serves as the courtyard of the house above it, while stone-paved alleys, old covered passageways (sabat) and colorful windows give the village a captivating look. Alongside the historic fabric, attractions such as Zonuzaq Castle, the historic cemetery, the old mosque, Zonuz Dam, the Kalister Spring, the Zonuzchay River, the Mahar summer pasture and the surrounding green plains offer visitors an unusual variety of historical and natural sights. In summer, apricots drying on the rooftops create a unique scene that has earned the village the reputation of having "delicious rooftops." Extensive orchards of apples, apricots, walnuts and sour cherries, local handicrafts and the hospitality of the villagers are other attractions of this destination.

To reach Zonuzaq, first travel from Tabriz to Marand, then take the Marand–Zonuz road. After passing through the town of Zonuz, follow the signs and you will reach the village in a short time. The best time to visit Zonuzaq is from mid-spring to early autumn, when the landscape is green, the orchards are full of fruit and the weather is very pleasant. Because of the long, freezing winters, traveling in the cold season requires suitable equipment. When visiting, please help preserve this valuable natural and cultural heritage by keeping the village peaceful, respecting the privacy of residential homes, avoiding damage to the historic fabric, picking up your litter, and protecting the springs and orchards.