Tehran – Gilde, a village in the central district of Shaft County, Gilan, held the Rosewater Festival.
Rosewater distillation has been transformed into one of the thriving indigenous industries. With the national registration of the Rosewater Distillation ceremony in the village of Gilde, the traditional industry is on the path to sustainable development, reported Mehr News Agency.
Based on available data, approximately 4,000 liters of rosewater are produced in Gilde by using traditional and local methods each spring season.
Apart from maintaining cultural authenticity, the distillation of the guild’s rosewater plays an important role in attracting tourists.
Rosewater distillation in the village of Gilde in Shaft is registered as an intangible heritage that paved the way for more attention to this local ritual and promotion at the state and national level.
At the rosewater distillation ceremony, traditional rose water is sold by Mohammadi rose farmers and producers. Visitors will be able to participate in training workshops, handicraft displays, local products and become familiar with local culture and customs.
Apart from the cultural aspects, the Rosewater Festival plays an important role in promoting the local economy and boosting local tourism.
The presence of domestic and international tourists creates opportunities to introduce the tourism capabilities of the shaft.
Morteza Mohammadie, a Mohammadie rose grower involved in the Rosewater Distillation Operation, said, “As Governor of the Guild Rural District, I have decided to start a Rosewater Distillation Workshop in the Village of Gilde, given the cultivation of Mohammadie roses.
He added: “The area where Mohammadi Rose is grown was about 2 hectares in Gilde Village, but over time it rose to 15 hectares with continuous efforts. In the past, 50 liters of rosewater were produced daily.
“In addition to rose water, we produce herbal extracts and herbal medicines.”
“By launching the Rosewater Distillation Cooperative Company, we have achieved the introduction of our products both domestically and internationally.”
Mohammad Zare’, a member of the Islamic Council of Gildeh village, also said, “Since 2010, we have tried to revive and develop this industry in the village by holding the Rosewater Distillation Festival.”
He added: “During this time, we were able to work with residents and officials to provide the infrastructure needed to host the festival and introduce the industry to tourists.”
Apart from the introduction of the rosewater distillation industry, these festivals have led to the development of civil infrastructure in the villages, he said.
He listed the rose resistance and its low water requirements as benefits of this flower, and stated that “due to climatic conditions, roses in this region have high essential oils and aroma.” Referring to the short fruiting period of this crop and the good income generation of farmers, Zare added:
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