Tehran – The registration document of Esfahak as the best tourist village of UN tourism was officially announced at the South Holasan pavilion at the 18th Tehran International Tourism and Related Industry Exhibition, and a senior provincial official signed the certificate.
The historic village in Iran’s Southern Khorasan province received the To Do Award presented by the German Institute of Tourism Development in 2020.
Hadi Sharvidi, director of the South Holasan Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, highlighted the village’s unique historic architecture, featuring traditional mud brick houses that attract tourists. He emphasized that this authentic, preserved architectural style played an important role in ensuring the global recognition of Esfahak.
Esfahak was completely destroyed in the 1978 Tabas earthquake, causing the residents to abandon their village. However, through collective efforts, the villagers revived and restored their homelands. This amazing community-led revival attracted the attention of UN tourism. This acknowledged the village’s commitment to maintaining its heritage while promoting sustainable tourism.
Shahverdi detailed key criteria that contributed to Esfahak’s perception, including its own natural attractions, tourism value chains, governance priorities, safety infrastructure, and small population size (less than 15,000). The village is also characterized by traditional agriculture and forestry activities, a distinctive lifestyle and shared cultural values. These aspects, combined with its historic fabric and architecture, established Esfahak as an exemplary model of sustainable tourism development.
The village has a wide range of natural and cultural attractions, including vast desert landscapes, sand dunes, palm groves, and canuts (ancient underground waterways). These elements contribute to the appeal of Esfahak as a well-known tourist destination.
Sharverdi also pointed out that Esfahak’s rich cultural heritage, customs and traditions played an important role in global recognition. He expressed optimism that village inclusion on the well-known list of UN tourism will promote sustainable development, attract tourists and encourage investment in tourism infrastructure. This will improve economic growth and improve the living conditions of local residents.
Esfahak’s international recognition emphasizes its high historical, architectural, cultural, natural values, and the dedication of its community. Authorities hope that the results will further enhance Esfahak’s global profile and position it as a must-see destination for travelers seeking authentic, sustainable tourism experiences.
Since 2021, the best Tourism Village Initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism in rural areas, and to preserve the natural landscape, cultural heritage, and indigenous lifestyles, including gastronomy and local values. It’s focused. Esfahak’s inclusion in this global list is a testament to the dedication that villagers will be to activate their heritage and turn it into a sustainable tourism hub.
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