Ardabil Province has an area of 17,881 square kilometers located in northeast of Iran and to the west of the Caspian Sea. The historical and rather religious city of Ardabil is it's capital. The most important cities in this province are Khalkhall, Meshkin Shahr, Germi, Bilehsavar and Pars Abad. In 1995, the population of Ardabil province was estimated to be 1.2 million among which 48.7% were settled in urban areas and 51.1% in rural areas, out of which a small part were registered

Most of the Ardabil province is mountainous with an average altitude of 3,000 m. above sea level. The province enjoys geographical and environmental diversity. As a result of which the climate is very cold in winter and mild in summers. Indeed, the city of Ardabil is usually recorded as one of the coldest cities of the country in winters.

The history of this province is intertwined with the history of Azarbayjan in general. Some historians estimate the antiquity of Ardabil town back to the 5th century A.D., that is the Firuz Sassanide era. In other words, this city is as old as 1500 years. But even earlier, Ardabil was a very important city from the military and political point of view during the Achaemenian period. It was a military base on the northern border of the Persian Empire. As it has been mentioned in the holy book Avesta, Zoroaster, the Iranian Prophet, was born by the river "Daei Yeta" which is now called "Aras" and wrote his holy book in the Sabalan Mountains and came to Ardabil for propagation of his religion.  In the time of the Arab invasion to Iran (about 1400 years ago), Ardabil was the largest city in Azarbayjan.

Up to the time of the Mongol attack, it was the center of government in Azarbayjan. Shah Esmail started his effort for a national government and land integrity of Iran from Ardabil and consequently he announced Tabriz as the capital city of Iran in 906 A.H. In the Safavid period, Ardabil was the most important city of Iran both politically and economically. The city of Ardabil located on the trade crossroads between Europe and the East, played a critical role in the safety of the Silk Road. The province is still strategically important

with respect to tourism and trade. The city of Ardabil now is one of the most important cities of the province and Iran for its many historical monuments, specially the Safavid family's mausoleums and tombs, its location near many thermal springs with therapeutic virtues, and location on the main access road to the Republic of Azarbayjan. These have turned the city to a tourism center, which is visited by thousands of tourists every year.Error processing SSI file

The city of Ardabil, as the capital of the province, is located at a distance of 639 kilometers from Tehran, west to the volcanic mountain of Sabalan. The weather of the province varies between extreme cold on the mountainous areas, to moderate on the plains. The name of Ardabil came from a Zoroastrian name of "Artavil" (mentioned in Avesta) which means a holy place. Some historians attribute the foundation of Ardabil to "Bazan Firuz".
Archaeologists have recently found some historical vestiges in Nameen, a nearby town, which belong to the 12th-16th centuries BC. Some Orartoie inscriptions belonging to the 7th-9th centuries BC. were found in Arasbaran which reveals that civilized people lived in the region.Error processing SSI file

This township forms a vast area of the province. In local language "Bileh" means "a land between two rivers" as it is situated between two rivers of Belha and Bigloo. The city is located in a level plain enjoying a hot climate in summer and a pleasant and moderate weather in winter. Error processing SSI file

Germi township is located between two low mountain ranges enjoying a warm climate in summers but pleasant and moderate weather in winter. The discovered vestiges indicate that the city is very old and its antiquity dates back to the Parthian period.Error processing SSI file

The city of Khalkhall is located in a mountainous region south of the province, 549 kilometers from Tehran. The climate of the city is very cold in the eastern parts and moderate in the north and south. The Tallesh Mountain Ranges extends from eastern Khalkhall southward as a barrier between the Caspian Sea and Gilan and Azarbayjan provinces causing less annual precipitation in western parts, compared to that of eastern side, with  poor vegetation.There are rich pastures, resort areas, eye-catching landscapes and natural promenades

The city of Meshkin Shahr is located in the northwestern Iran, at the center of the province, and 839 kilometers far from Tehran. Being near the high Sabalan Mountains it enjoys a moderate mountainous climate. Formerly, it was known as "Khiav". The Sabalan summit can be seen in the south of the city with an eye catching scenery. The antiquity of the city dates back to the early centuries of Islam but in the Safavid age it was thriving even more.Error processing SSI file

There is a vast plain located between Aras River (south) and the northern parts of the mountain chain of Talesh that is called Moqan. This plain expands from the outskirts of Mount Sabalan to the Caspian Sea. Today, this area is one of the industrial and agricultural centers of the province enjoying a warm climate in summer and moderate weather in winter.Error processing SSI file

It is located in a rocky mountain near Chatin Valley and Qara-Qyeh Village. Ceramic and earthenware objects found from this site belong to the 1st millennium B.C.Error processing SSI file

On the eastern slope of the Baq Nowruz Valley in Meshkin Shahr, there is a castle by the river and there is an inscription with Pahlavi script belonging to the Sassanid period. It's probable that this castle has been built replacing the ancient Sassanid castle as mentioned in an inscription.

This castle is located 500 m. from the Ultan Village in Pars Abad. Its antiquity dates back to the Parthian period and due to its firm structure it was used until 12th century A.H.

Located in the Kalkhoran Village in Ardabil, this mausoleum belongs to the ancestor of the Safavid Dynasty the father of Sheikh Safi-edin Essaq. The original mausoleum dates back to about 500 years ago. The simplicity of decorative and artistic work on the walls and the ceilings are very soothing for the visitors. The wooden door at the main entrance has artistic carvings that are quite valuable. This mosque was last renovated about 400 years ago.

This mausoleum is an 18 m. cylindrical structure belonging to the late 7th or 9th century A.H. The portal and façade of the building are delicately decorated with tile-work, brick-work, inscriptions with the sacred names etc.

It is composed of a series of monuments built in various periods that was shaped as a complex for the first time by Shah Tahmasb. Later Shah Abbas added to the previous ones and renovated some sections. This historical complex is closely intertwined with the history of the Safavid Dynasty. Some of the Safavid kings as well as Shah Esmail I have been buried at this site. The main section of the mausoleum is composed of a circular tower with circumference of 22 m which is about 17

meters high. In the interior of this monument ,near Sheikh Safi's tomb, the tomb of his son (the founder of mausoleum) and those of other family members can be found.
At the time of Naseredin Shah Qajar, i.e., about 115 years ago, major renovations took place and some changes were made to the complex. This site has been a major attraction for domestic and international tourists.
Main sections of the complex are the followings: the gate, the large court, the small court, the graveyard court, Shahidgah (martyrdom place), Janat Sara Mosque and Cheleh Khaneh which encircles Qandil Khaneh, Haramkhaneh and Chini Khaneh. The Allah Allah Dome is very famous and probably the most spectacular part of the complex.Error processing SSI file

This hill is found in the southwest of Aslandooz in Moqan. This is where Nader Shah's coronation ceremony was held about 300 years ago. It is about 30 m. high with a contour of about 1500 meters. This hill used to be a residential site from 1000 B.C. to about 400 years ago.Error processing SSI file

It is located in the Kouraim Village, and the tombs in this vicinity belong to 700-800 years B.C. These tombs are classified as elite, commons, and animals.Error processing SSI file

Other archaeological hills of the province are scattered all around the province like Onar in Meshkin Shahr, Sa'een in Sa'een village, Shams Abad in a village with the same name, etc.

About 100 meters to the east of the main square in Meshkin Shahr, this inscription is located in a valley named Dareh Baq Nowruz. On one of the slopes there is an inscription belonging to the Shapour II, the Sassanid. This inscription is composed of the following sections:
Line 1-3: The date of the inscription goes back to year 300 before Islam.
Line 3-9: Recognition of the work of Hormoz for his six-year efforts during the construction of the tower.
Line 9-21: An advice from Hormozd to the elite of the city asking them to contemplate the beauty of the tower or to make an effort to build a better one.Error processing SSI file

This seven-arched bridge has been constructed on the Baliqly Chay River, belonging to the Safavid period. Its piles are made of stone with zigzag barrel-arches are made of brick. The construction materials are gypsum and mortar.Error processing SSI file

The bridge is constructed over the Kalkhoran River and it has three arches with supports made of stone and walls made of brick. The antiquity of this bridge dates back to the Safavid time.Error processing SSI file

This bridge has been constructed over the Baliqly Chay River. The bridge has seven arches and is a remnant of the Safavid period. It's been renovated about 90 years ago.Error processing SSI file

This old bridge has been built over Qarah Soo River, 15 km. from Ardabil. The antiquity of the bridge dates back to the Safavid period. The construction materials are stone and brick. There are four towers or minarets in its four corners for guiding the travelers at night or during bad weather conditions.Error processing SSI file

There are other historical bridges that are scattered in the province. The most important ones are: Seyed Abad, Ya'qoobieh and Ebrahim Abad Bridges on the Baliqly river of Ardabil, Almas, Sorkh and Shahr Chay Bridges of Ardabil and Khoda Afarin Bridge in Asaldooz.Error processing SSI file

It is located in Ali Qapoo Alley in the city of Ardabil. Its entrance is simple but beautifully decorated and has a globular dome. It has different parts with eye-catching adornments. There are two large alcoves inside the bath. It is estimated that the bath is 300 years old.Error processing SSI file

This bath is located in Sarcheshmeh locality in Ardabil. Its vestibule and entrance have been changed but the rest of the parts have preserved their old style with cloak room and other segments.Error processing SSI file

This bath is located in a locality with the same name. Its cloak room is quadripartite with a small dome. There is a platform between the cloak room and the inside of the bath, for temperature control in these two parts. It is very well decorated with paintings and other adornments.Error processing SSI file

This bath has a simple entrance door and corridor. But the cloak room has preserved its old shape. This bath has several platforms, an alcove, stone-floor, and an octagonal pool with four stony arms that ends to the cloak room by a small step. There are several old paintings on the wall around the bath.Error processing SSI file

This bath is located in the Uchdokan locality. Its vestibule is a hexagonal area with six mantels. There is a wide cloak room with low depth. The bath is well decorated in accordance with eye-catching local arts worth mentioning.Error processing SSI file

Other old public baths in Ardabil have conserved their unique traditional architecture more or less. Sometimes they are ornamented with paintings and other innovations. Some of these public baths are worth visiting as they represent veritable historical attractions. They are named as: Molla Hadi Bath in Molla Hadi Alley (Ardabil); Safavieh Bath in Nayebi Street (Ardabil); Ebrahim Abad Bath in Ebrahim Abad Alley; Zeinal and Mansoorieh Baths in Ali Qapoo; Ya'qoobieh Bath in Ouchdakan locality; Vakil Bath in Imam Khomeini Avenue; Yasavol bath in Ounchi Meydan; Zendan Bath in Zendan Alley; Aqanqi and Mirza Iman baths which are similar to the Haj Sheikh Bath.Error processing SSI file

In the heart of the Ardabil city, this bazaar stands as old as the Islamic period. Its shape was described by the historians of 4th century A.H. as a cross, extending in four directions with simply designed domes. Most sections of the bazaar have been constructed and renovated during the Safavid and Zand periods.

This tower is located in Somi'eh Village, 8.5 km. from This tower is located in Somi'eh Village, 8.5 km. from Ardabil. It is surrounded by open green space. Although heavily damaged, its architectural design probably belongs to about the 8th century A.H.Error processing SSI file

It is located in the Ouchdokan locality, and Sartip Abad Alley in the city of Ardabil. This house is known for its artistic and decorative designs.Error processing SSI file

This majestic house (1,750 square meters) has been built in a land with an area of 1,450 square meters. At present it is in good condition, although it is not used for residential purposes.Error processing SSI file

This house, located in the Shahidgah Alley, and is still inhabited. On the walls, there is an inscription on which some poetry and Arabic verses from Holy Qoran can be seen.

This edifice despite its artistic and historical value, is being destroyed because of lack of attention. Its historical background is intertwined with that of the city and the events of the twentieth century. This house used to be the gathering place for the opponents of the Mashrouteh (Constitution) Movement.Error processing SSI file

There are several other private and public historical buildings worth seeing. The most important ones are: Sadeqi's House, Manafzadeh's House, building of Islamic School etc.

At a proximity to Aslandooz in Moqan, there are graveyards dating back to the 1st millennium before Islam. In the vast plain of Moqan there are also graveyards which mostly belong to the 1st millennium B.C. An example is the graveyard near Germi (i.e. Cidlar) with designed bricks.Error processing SSI file

Located west of the Karjan Kalkhoran Village, it contains a few tombstones designed in the Islamic style. This graveyard dates back to about the 6 - 8th centuries A.H.Error processing SSI file

This graveyard is located in the Onar Village, 24 km. from Meshkin Shahr It has a diversity of tombstones including some with the design of a star or other decorations. In this graveyard several historical objects have been found.Error processing SSI file

Among other historical graveyards of the province Sham Asbi Graveyard can be pointed out.Error processing SSI file

In the heart of a mountain in the Kalkhoran area there are soft sediments and among them square-shaped houses can be observed. Some of the objects found at this site date back to the Parthian period.Error processing SSI file

This tomb or crypt, composed of an entrance door and an interesting small room, is located close to Wind Kalkhoran Village on a high sedimented hill.Error processing SSI file

It is a rather modernly designed mosque and is an imitation of Sheikh Safi's "Allah Allah" Dome. It is decorated by bricks and turquoise tiles. The origin of this mosque goes back to the Qajar period but it has been renovated and reconstructed recently.Error processing SSI file

This is a remain from the Saljuqian period. In the walls of the minarets there are two inscriptions belonging to about 700 years ago. These have been transferred to a museum. Ceramic and other objects discovered at this site belong to about 600 years ago (Saljuqian period). The rest of the inscriptions which are not in a good conditions date back to the 3rd or 4th centuries.Error processing SSI file

This rather luxurious mosque is located in the center of the city near Ardabil Bazaar. The dome of the mosque is standing on 30 pillars with a diameter of about 88 cm. each. These pillars are ordered in six columns and five rows. The mosque has two pulpits, one wooden and the other as a rolling chair.Error processing SSI file

It is located in the Molla Momen locality behind the mausoleum of Sheikh Safi-edin Ardabily. This building has been constructed during the reign of Shah Abbas I in 1130 AH. There is a room close to the building which is the tomb of two religious leaders.Error processing SSI file

This mausoleum is located in Fakhr Abad Village, Meshkin Shahr. The façade of the building is decorated with black stones and bricks. Internal of the building is adorned with plaster moldings and paintings. Its construction dates back to 1244 AH.Error processing SSI file

This mausoleum is located in the midst of the graveyard of the Kooraeim Village 30 km. far from Ardabil. This rectangular building belongs to the 7th century AH. and is registered by The Cultural Heritage Organization.Error processing SSI file

This mausoleum is located in the southern part of the Sheikh Jebrail Mausoleum. Older inhabitants call this Imamzadeh "Imamzadeh Gol Zard". Seyed Hamzeh is the son of Imam Moosa Kazim (A.S.) who had come from Baqdad to this vicinity guiding the people of Ardabil.Error processing SSI file

Other mausoleums and Imamzadehs of the province are: Imamzadeh Dokhtar in Ouchdakan locality  (Ardabil), Imamzadeh Khalkhall in Khalkhall, Imamzadeh Mir Zaman and Seyed Ebrahim in Khams Village (Khalkall), Peer Ashraf Mausoleum (Ardabil), Seyed Danial in Khanqah Village (Khalkall), Haj Fakhr Mosque (Ardabil), Jame' Mosque and Nov Mosque in Khams Village (Khalkall), Janat Sara Mosque and Hassan Dash Mausoleum in Meshkin Shahr. Error processing SSI file

This building is located in the Armanestan Alley or Ounchoo Meydan in Ardabil and dates back to about 300 years ago. The interior decorations are very interesting and its wooden door is ornamented with intricately carved geometrical designs.Error processing SSI file

One of the most interesting mountains of Iran, with an altitude of about 4,800 m., is Sabalan which is originally a volcanic mountain. The summit is located 41 km. from Ardabil and can be easily observed while traveling on the road to Sar Ein and Ardabil. There is a lake on top of the Sabalan Mountain, which is a major attraction for professional hikers.

Ardabil Province is one of the richest provinces for its wildlife. Some of these animals are as follows: Wild goat, Armenian wild sheep, wild boar, fox, wolf, black and brown bear, migratory and endemic birds (i.e. bustard, Caucasian black grouse, etc). Most important wildlife habitats are at a distance of not more than 95 km. around Meshkin Shahr. The most important habitats of the province are as follows:

This habitat is located 83 km. northeast to Meshkin Shahr, in the Aqababa Mountains with an area of 70 square kilometers is 1200 m. higher than the sea level having wild goat, wolf, rabbit, bore, partridge etc.Error processing SSI file

With an area of 60 square kilometers, this habitat is located 80 km. northeast to Meshkin Shahr with the altitude of 1700 m. Some species like wild goat, wild bore, rabbit, fox and partridge live over there.Error processing SSI file

Located on the northern foothills of Sabalan Mountains with the altitude of 2,725 m. this area is the habitat of several species of wildlife. The most important of them are: wild goat, Armenian wild sheep, partridge, turtledove and ringdove.Error processing SSI file

Covering an area of 120 square kilometers this habitat is 1,200 meters high from the sea level. It is 95 kilometers far from Meshkin Shahr and is the home of wild goat, Armenian wild sheep, fox, wolf, rabbit, partridge, turtledove, ringdove and bustard etc.Error processing SSI file

Located south of Meshkin shahr and west of the Haram Daq Mountains, this habitat is 3,200 meters higher than the sea level. This region is the habitat of ringdove, rabbit, partridge, turtledove, and other species of migratory and prey birds.Error processing SSI file

Covering an area of 1,000 hectare this lake is located 30 kilometers far from Ardabil. It has a unique ecosystem and habitat of rainbow trout and other species of birds and animals.Error processing SSI file

Located 25 km. southeast of Meshkin Shahr ,this habitat has an area of 105 square kilometers with altitude of 200 m. There live some wildlife like wild goat, Armenian wild sheep (in winters), brown bear, wolf, rabbit and different species of birds.Error processing SSI file

With an area of 75 square kilometers, this habitat has an altitude of 2,200 meters located 20 kilometers southeast of Meshkin Shahr. This region is the habitat of the wild goat, Armenian wild sheep, fox, wolf, rabbit, partridge, turtledove, ringdove and other species of migratory birds.Error processing SSI file

Other important habitats and protected areas of the province are: Hajiloo, Tanbaq, Arbab Kandi protected zones as well as the summer and winter residing areas of Meshkin Shahr; site seeing Fadoqloo forests around Ardabil; Shaqla Dareh summer residing area in Ardabil - Astara Road; Haft Khaneh cave in Garm Khaneh village (Khalkhall), Daro Cave in Shahrood - Khalkhall Road and recreational area of Khalkhal.Error processing SSI file

This wetland is located 15 km. southeast of Ardabil, near a village with the same name. It is the habitat of important waterfowl such as mallard, scup, ruddy shelduck and starling.Error processing SSI file

This lake is located 48 km. southeast of the city of Ardabil, in an altitude of 2,700 m. above sea level. With an area of more than 220 hectares, it is composed of a smaller and a larger basin, which gets connected in rainy seasons forming a single lake. The Maximum depth of this lake reaches 5.5 m. with the average of 3 m. depth. The Neor Lake is the habitat of rainbow trout and birds such as ruddy shelduck and migrant swallows. Sports, fishing and other recreational activities are common and popular at this site.Error processing SSI file

It is a seasonal wetland located 35 km. southeast of Ardabil city. In spring and winter the area is used by a diversity of waterfowls. The region holds rich pastures for grazing of livestock.Error processing SSI file

With an area of 120 hectares, this salt-water lake is located south of the Ardabil city and constitutes an important recreational site for the inhabitants of Ardabil with several facilities.Error processing SSI file

Being about 900 square kilometers in area, this plain is covered with rich vegetation and has vast fertile agriculture lands. It is also used by the local people for recreational purposes on weekends.Error processing SSI file

Encompassing an area of more than 300-350 thousand hectares, the Moqan plain is located to the north of Ardabil Province and west of the Caspian Sea. Due to its mild winters and humid summers, it is considered as an important agricultural pole of Iran. Vast verdant farmlands and orchards as well as related industries have been established in this area which along with the tribal lifestyle of Shahsavans may attract many interested tourists.Error processing SSI file

With an area of 105 thousand hectares, these beautiful forests are still among the "untouched" forests of the Alborz Mountain Chain. Some of the various species of trees are oak and pine. The road connecting Ardabil to Rasht via Astara passes by these forests which have been divided between ex-Soviet Union and Iran. This road is one of the most scenic roads while traveling in Iran; however caution must be taken as the road conditions are sometimes difficult at higher altitudes.Error processing SSI file

Aras, which in Azerbaijani language is called "Araz", is the most important river in northern Iran and Azerbaijan provinces. This river originates from the Goel Daq Mountain in Turkey and after joining the Kor River, it finally pours into the west end of the Caspian Sea. The river marks the border between Iran and Armenia and Azerbaijani Republics. There are many important dams over this river irrigating the surrounding areas in the Moqan Plain and some of the most important agricultural lands in Iran.Error processing SSI file

Meaning "a river with many fish" in Azerbaijani language, this river originates from the Sabalan Mountains and passes through Ardabil city. As a result, many villages and townships have settled around this river. It also irrigates much of the agricultural lands in this province.Error processing SSI file

Meaning "black water" in Azerbaijani language, this river is 108 km. long and joining the Aras, Qoory Chay and Baliqly Chay Rivers. Its banks are utilized as recreational areas both by local residence and tourists.Error processing SSI file

Due to its geological situation, Ardabil Province is a home to many thermal and mineral springs, which are among the most important and popular ones in Iran and in the region and are mostly used for therapeutic purposes. The most important ones are as follows:

It is close to the Gol Ali Spring having very limpid water. Its temperature is 30° C with the water yielding capacity of 1 liter/second. This spring annually attracts many tourists.Error processing SSI file

Located 3 kilometers north of Sar Ein in a valley, this cold water mineral spring has several sources. Drinking its water is recommended for urological and gastric diseases.Error processing SSI file

It is located 45 kilometers west of Ardabil towards the city of Sarab. It contains carbon dioxide (CO₂) with the temperature of 49° C as well as different mineral compounds effective in rheumatism and skin diseases.Error processing SSI file

It is located 15 kilometers south of Meshkin Shahr. Its water contains sulfate and phosphorous compounds and carbon dioxide (CO₂).Error processing SSI file

In this spring there is a pool with 25 X 17 m. area. Its temperature is 45° C and its water yielding capacity is 30 liter/second which is the highest in the region.Error processing SSI file

Its water enters a pond and then enters the Sar Ein Valley. Its temperature is 43° C with the water yielding capacity of 1.5 liter/second.Error processing SSI file

These two springs flow out from several crevices holding a high quantity of CO₂ gas. After joining other springs, its water is used for agricultural purposes. Its water yielding capacity is 30 liter/second and its temperature is 17° C with no sedimentation.Error processing SSI file

There are two ponds in the source of the spring and its temperature is 41° C with a water yielding capacity of 1.5 liter/second. Its water relieves the rheumatic and nervous pains.Error processing SSI file

It is located 24 kilometers from Meshkin Shahr. Its temperature is 41° C. As it contains sulfate compounds, causes evaporation of bad odors around the spring.Error processing SSI file

Located 28 km. away from the city of Ardabil, this complex of various thermal springs can be used by reaching the small town of Sar Ein at the foot of the Sabalan Mountains. Sar Ein is easily accessible through Ardabil airport and a good quality paved road. Equipped with modern facilities and newly built hotels, Sar Ein is one of the most visited sites by domestic tourists especially aware of the therapeutic virtues of these springs rich in different minerals.

This spring is located 24 kilometers from Ardabil and one kilometer north of Vakil Abad Village among a vast valley, and its temperature is 49° C. Its altitude is 1,820 meters above the sea level. Its water is enriched with several minerals useful for rheumatism and skin diseases.Error processing SSI file

It is located close to Qarah Soo Spring. Its temperature at the source is 47° C and in the ponds is 44° C with a water yielding capacity of 3 liters/second.Error processing SSI file

There are of course many other thermal springs with different therapeutic virtues, which are less equipped with facilities and sometimes unexplored. The most important ones are: Qinerjeh Spring and Moil Thermal Spring in Meshkin Shahr; Borjloo Thermal Spring at 4 km. to Neer; Garmkhaneh Mineral Water and thermal spring in Garmkhaneh Village (Khalkhall); Sardabi Spring in Sardab Village (Ardabil); Haft Boluk, Daneshgah, Ab Pahn, Ab Yal Sooie, Ab Chashm, Besh Baji Lar Springs and thermal springs and coffee houses of Hemat and Momtaz in Ardabil.Error processing SSI file

This waterfall is 12m. high and it is located in the northern slopes of Sabalan Mountain. Along with other natural attractions such as glaciers and thermal springs of mount Sabalan, this waterfall attracts many nature lovers to the Ardabil Province.Error processing SSI file

China objects are located in the Chini-Khaneh (or China House), a room originally designed to preserve the Chinaware or porcelain which was dedicated to Shah Abbas by one of the Chinese Emperors to recognize his efforts in making the Silk-Road a safe place. Most of the China were taken by the Russians after the Turkaman-Chay treaty and now are located in museums of St. Petersburg. However, the monument itself is certainly worth visiting. This museum was inaugurated in 1991.Error processing SSI file

This province is very famous for its "Ashiks", who are musicians playing traditional instruments (Saz or tar, etc.) and singing love songs that express both sadness and joy. These artists mostly appear in wedding ceremonies and get together and that is how they earn their livelihood.Error processing SSI file

It is quiet easy to travel to and within Ardabil all over the year except for winters. There is an airport in Ardabil city and another in Pars Abad and accommodation facilities to stay overnight. There are communication, transportation and health facilities all around the province. All cities of the province are well connected with each other as well as other parts of the country by a network of roads and highways. Only in Khalkhall traveling is difficult in winter because the snow-clad in highlands mostly cause road blockage. It should be mentioned that most facilities are found in the city of Ardabil but all other towns enjoy acceptable facilities like restaurants and guesthouses.Error processing SSI file