Qaleh Harsam Village

Qaleh Harsam is a village in Humeh District (Hamil) of Islamabad-e Gharb County, Kermanshah Province, set in a mountainous part of the Zagros range. It lies in Harsam Rural District, about 35 kilometres from the city of Islamabad-e Gharb and 90 kilometres from Kermanshah. With its historic fortress, the Harsam Spring (Sarab-e Harsam) with its natural scenery and flowing water, and the cultural and ethnic fabric of its people, Qaleh Harsam offers a varied collection of tourist attractions. The villagers belong to the Zangeneh tribe, and their culture, dialect and history form part of Harsam's cultural identity. The name Harsam also appears in the travelogue of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar as "Qaleh Akhund", which shows the village's long history.

One of the most important features of Qaleh Harsam is the ancient mound and historic fortress within the village, dating back to the Ilkhanid period. This historic site was added to the Iran National Heritage List on 6 Esfand 1385 under registration number 17554, a sign of the area's historical importance. In past years a number of old, ruined houses stood on the historic mound; they were cleared in coordination with, and under the supervision of, the Cultural Heritage authorities so that the historic site could be better protected. Alongside this historic attraction, Harsam Spring is one of the village's most important natural sights. With its flowing water, lush scenery and surroundings, it has made Harsam one of the region's target villages for tourism. To the southeast of the village is a place called Dartavi, where an ancient Daghdaghan tree and a large spring at its foot are further natural features of the area. The local vegetation includes species such as thyme, milkvetch (gavan), borage, liquorice and chamomile, and the suitable habitat for resident and migratory birds adds to Harsam's natural value. Besides its historical and natural attractions, Imamzadeh Hassan is a place revered by the local people and hosts pilgrims and villagers on religious occasions.

To reach Qaleh Harsam, head towards Islamabad-e Gharb County and Humeh District (Hamil), then take the road leading to Harsam Rural District and enter the village. The Harsam area lies along the route connecting Kermanshah to Ilam and Mehran, so it is also well placed in terms of regional access. Given the mild climate and Zagros nature of the area, spring and early summer are good times to visit Qaleh Harsam, when the lush vegetation, the flow of the spring and the natural scenery are at their best. When visiting the village, respect the privacy of local people and avoid damaging historic buildings, the ancient mound, old trees and vegetation. Travellers should also take their rubbish with them, stay within designated areas, and refrain from picking plants or damaging the area's natural resources, so that Harsam's nature and cultural heritage are preserved for future generations.