Hormozgan Province covers an area of 71,193 sq. km. and is situated in the south of Iran and to the north of the Persian Gulf. The Hormoz Strait is one of the focal and vital points in the jurisdiction of this province. The various townships of Hormozgan Province are the following: Abumoosa, Bandar Abbas, Bandar Lengeh, Jask, Hadji Abad, Roudan, Qeshm and Minab. According to the census of the year 1996, the population of this province was approximately 1.06

million, of which 41.8 % dwelled in the urban areas, 57.7 in the rural vicinities and the rest were non-residents. The major portion of the province has a mountainous terrain, with the southern sector of the Zagross Mountain Range stretching out from the northwest to southeast. The same forms limestone and sandy hills that adjoin the lower most regions and the shores of the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman.

The Province of Hormozgan lies in a desert to a semi-desert like region with a warm (hot) and dry climate. The coastal areas experience a warm and humid weather in summers, while moderate in winters. Rainfall is scant, but humidity along the coastal regions is on a high percentage.Error processing SSI file

The history of Hormozgan Province intermingles with the geographical aspects of the Persian Gulf. Records show that the history of the Bandar-e-Hormoz began from the times of Ardeshir Babakan. Some believe that the prosperity and flourishing of Bandar-e-Hormoz was between the years 211 - 241 A.D., when it was considered as a vital center for transactions and trade in the east. In the years 661-750 A.D. the territory of the Persian Gulf came under the realm of the Omayyeh Caliphates and later on under Abbasids. The latter took over the scene from the years 750 - 1285 A.D.
In the late 8th century A.D., that is when the sea-faring enterprises were at its peak, historians believed this to be on an equal level of importance in regards to the Silk Road if not out ranking it.
In the year 1497 A.D., initially the colonial powers of the west under the leadership of Vasco De Gama entered the ports of the Persian Gulf. Then in the year 1506 A.D. the Portuguese in order to safeguard their rights the Bandar-e-Hormoz against the Egyptian and Venetian traders besieged the same. This port became the key point at this period regarding trade and commerce in the Persian Gulf region, and also in respect to the route to the Spice Islands.
During the Safavid era, Shah Esmail Safavid considered the aspects of regaining the control of Hormoz which was then in the hands of the Portuguese. But due to being entangled with warfare against the Ottomans was unable to do so. This led to a treaty between them that strengthened the hold of the Portuguese in the realm of the Persian Gulf for a period of time. Shah Abbas the great brought an end to this state and with the aid of the Britain expelled the Portuguese from the region.
Moreover, in the year 1004 A.H. the Dutch established their commercial center in Bandar Abbas. This prompted extensive rivalry between Britain and themselves. In the late Safavid era, the government of Iran eliminated the exemption of the custom duty regarding the exports and imports carried out by Dutch, but permitted them to trade in silk in any part of the country. This coincided with the period that the Dutch constructed a fortification or a Dej (Fort) near their trading establishment in Bandar Abbas.
The ruler or governor of the Khark Island and Bandar-e-Reeg, Mir Mohana attacked the Dutch in the year 1765 A.D. because of their lapse in paying their lease, which was taken as an excuse. This proved fruitful in pushing them out of the Persian Gulf. After which Britannia dominated and brought about various small Sheikhdoms that were weak on their own and this suited the purposes of Britain.
After the World War I, the Persian Gulf was an important center regarding oil and other aspects of industrial and economic resources. Thus this region has held a strategic position which proved eye-catching and caused foreign governments and countries to have a special attention towards this territory.Error processing SSI file

In the Omayyeh caliphate and Abbasid era this held well when their respective commanders controlled the vicinity. In the year 323 A.H., Emad-ud-Dowleh Daylami, occupied the ports and islands of the Persian Gulf including the Abumoosa Island. During the Al-e-Booyeh reign all the ports and islands of the Persian Gulf came under their strong hold, and till the year 538 A.H. this island was dominated by the Saljuqi dynasty of Kerman, and ruled by the local rulers of Bani Qeisar.
In his conquests Teimoor Gurgani annexed the ports and islands of this vicinity including Abumoosa to the territories formerly in his occupation. In the reign of Shah Abbas Safavid the Portuguese took control of Abumoosa, and in the year 1179 A.H., Karim Khan Zand sought control of this island and other islands of the Persian Gulf. Aqa Mohammad Khan Qajar also gained supremacy regarding the islands and Abumoosa.
In the late 19th century the British government entered the scene on the pretext of driving out the pirates from the Persian Gulf region, standing against the sale of slaves, and protecting the security of India. Thus the British government naval force forbade the Iranian militia from taking part in sea-faring procedures. After which the Sheikh of Sharjah (aided by the British government) claimed possession of this island, but in the year 1971 the Island of Abumoosa came under the full control of the Iranian Navy.Error processing SSI file

The township of Bandar Abbas is located at a distance of 1,484 km. from Tehran. The same lies to the south of the province and is within the southern limits of the Persian Gulf. It experiences a warm and humid climate. In the year 924 A.H., Bandar Abbas was known as Jerun and was not more than a small village on the northern coasts of the Persian Gulf. In the year 1514 A.D., the Portuguese selected the same for the dispatch of cargo and due to the presence of a large number of lobsters or crabs on its shores, named this port likewise. The British government came to help Shah Abbas Safavid who expelled the Portuguese from this port in 1622 A.D. Thereafter to commemorate this victory, the port was named Bandar Abbas.
The British government and the Dutch set up commercial centers here and constructed a magnificent edifice on the sea shore. Most of the cargo ships transporting goods from India to Iran, the Ottoman Empire and other vicinities in the region docked at this port.
The Dutch were responsible for constructing a small town in the midst of the city of Bandar Abbas in 1110 A.H., after gaining permission from the government of Iran. In the mid 17th century A.D., the East India Company was inaugurated in Bandar Abbas, but later due to turmoil in 1759 A.D. the same was transferred to Basra. During the reign of Nader Shah, Bandar Abbas and its suburbs were rented out to the Sultan of Muscat in accordance to an agreement. But due to a rebellion in Muscat in the year 1868 A.D., this agreement was canceled and Bandar Abbas came under the jurisdiction of Iran.
Currently, the city of Bandar Abbas is the center of Hormozgan Province and enjoys a favorable position both strategically on the shores of the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman and also in connection with economic fields. Furthermore, the facilitation provided in Bandar-e-Shaheed Rajaie aids in brisk transactions between Iran and other countries.Error processing SSI file

The above mentioned township is situated at a distance of 1,631 km. from Tehran. It is to the west of the province and the coasts of the Persian Gulf, and has a warm and humid climate. There is a strong possibility that 'Bandar-e-Gugana' which held great importance during the Achaemenian period as a trading port, but later declined due to upheavals, is the current Bandar Lengeh. In the year 1760 A.D., an Arab clan or tribe by the name of Javasem occupied the southern coasts of the Persian Gulf, Bandar Lengeh and Qeshm Island in a mass migration. During the reign of Karim Khan Zand 1163-1193 A.H. Bandar Lengeh thrived in regards to sea-faring activities as a port, and also because the caravan route to Shiraz which added to its importance commercially.
This port was reputedly known as the bride of the ports of Iran during the Qajar era and till the year 1896 A.D. the Javasem tribe held the ropes in Bandar Lengeh. The French Consulate was established here in the year 1889 A.D. and the Belgians held control of the customs in Bandar Abbas and Bandar Lengeh. In the year 1898 A.D. one of the family members of the ruler of Bandar Lengeh enjoyed a prime position in ruling the area, due to weakness of central government. But this continued only for a short while. Bandar Lengeh witnessed decline in the late Qajar period. This state continued throughout the first and second world wars. In 1945 due to infectious diseases and famine the city was further prone towards derangement. At present this port is one of the thriving and active ports in the region.Error processing SSI file

The above mentioned township is located to the north of the province and is divided into two sectors, the east and the west. The former region, Fazqan, is surrounded by a branch range of the Zagross Mountains with high summits. But the western segment consists of salt marshes. The vicinity of Hadji Abad experiences warm, dry summers and moderate winters. The thermal springs of Hadji Abad and Dah Sheikh are the natural attractions of this region amongst other such natural attractions in its eastern sector.Error processing SSI file

The township of Jask is located to the east of Hormozgan Province and experiences a warm and dry weather, being under the influence of an arid and semi-arid type of climate. In ancient times this region was a center for the Mithraism cult and the temple of Anahita is a remnant here. In 1330 A.D., Sultan Qotbuddin ruled Jask, and in the year 1614 A.D., the British government selected this region as a trading port. The East India Company was established here in the year 1619 A.D. In late 1620 A.D. the Portuguese halted the entrance of two ships of the East India Company from docking in the port of Jask. This evoked a severe battle between the British government and the Portuguese, which resulted in the defeat of the Portuguese government. In order to create further dominating measures in the vicinity, in 1864 A.D. the British government set up a telegraph system along with an under water cable thereby setting communications between Iran and India. Today Bandar-e-Jask is a comparatively thriving region and resembles a peninsula that is surrounded by water on the three sides, enhanced by a tranquil and beautiful coastal area.Error processing SSI file

The township of Minab lies in the north of Hormoz Strait, and is at a distance of 1,616 km. from Tehran. It has a mountainous terrain towards the north and east, whilst the plains are located in its central and western sectors. Minab experiences a warm and humid climate and its agricultural lands are irrigated by the Minab River. Its historical past mingles with that of the ancient city of Hormoz, which historians believe to be related to Ardeshir Babakan Sassanid. In the year 1000 A.D., one of the Sheikhs of Oman by the name of Mohammad took advantage of the discontentment of the inhabitants in respect to the ruler of the times, occupied Bandar-e-Hormoz. In 1300 A.D. the Mongols invaded this city, thus forcing the Amir (governor) of Hormoz and its inhabitants to flee to the current Island of Hormoz.
During the years 1793-1804, the Sultan of Oman, Sultan Ebne Ahmad came to power with the help of the Britain in 'Gouatre', and tried to refrain from disputes towards the Iranian rule, but at the same time tried to gain control over Bandar Abbas and Minab. Due to internal involvement, Aqa Mohammad Khan was unable to fortify his power in the south during this period. Thence the ruler of Oman took the seat in the areas of Qeshm and Hormoz Island. But in the year 1852 A.D. a treaty was drawn up to the effect that the coastal lands, Islands of Iran along with Minab city be returned back to Iran. The Hazareh (Bibi Minoo) Castle is the most important historical vestige of this township.Error processing SSI file

Qeshm Island is situated to the north of Hormoz Strait, and the city of Qeshm is located in the southeast of this Island. This region has a warm and humid climate and is somewhat a lengthy island. During the Mongol conquest, people of a tribe known as Turan were the inhabitants of this island and were responsible for its prosperity. In the year 1507 A.D. the Portuguese came ashore on this island and fortified themselves from the military point of view, remaining thus till the reign of Shah Abbas Safavid. In 1645 A.D. the Dutch brought about an important military force in the Persian Gulf and occupied the Qeshm castle on the pretext that the Iranians had failed to abide by the trading pact. But the heat of this island compelled the Dutch to leave the place. On the death of Nader Shah in 1747 A.D., the influence of Iran in the Persian Gulf weakened, and the Javasem (Arab) tribe increased their supremacy in the vicinity, thereby conquering the Qeshm Island in the year 1760 A.D. Britannia founded its naval base in the village of Basaeidoo in the Qeshm Island in the year 1882 A.D., but were forced to leave this area due to climatic conditions, i.e., the heat.
After the Islamic revolution, Qeshm regained its importance and in the year 1989 accounted for the second ranking economically free port. In 1990 it facilitated custom services and played an active role in this connection in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman, both in the industry and commercial circles; thereby further improving trade relations between Iran and other neighboring countries.Error processing SSI file

This township is one of the ancient vicinities in the province from the geographical point of view. In comparison to the other regions of the province this area has a pleasant climate. Its underground and surface water resources are on a relatively high level and this promotes agricultural activities in the area, and in the 4th century A.H. this territory boasted of verdant regions. In the 8th century A.H. its agricultural products were grain, cane sugar, grapes and similar yields; the surplus of which were exported to India via the port of Tiab in Minab. This township is devoid of any historical vestiges, but has natural beauty.Error processing SSI file

This pavilion is a relic of the Safavid era and is located in the vicinity of the ancient pier in the Taleqani Blvd. of Bandar Lengeh. Due to the fact that this edifice has an imprint of European architecture, thus its name which means foreign hat or cap.Error processing SSI file

This pavilion is a relic of the Safavid era and is located in the vicinity of the ancient pier in the Taleqani Blvd. of Bandar Abbas. Due to the fact that this edifice has an imprint of European architecture, thus its name which means foreign hat or cap.Error processing SSI file

There is no doubt that Hormozgan Province is one of the strategic areas of the south of Iran. The same has always been a focal point in the eyes of Iranian rulers as well as foreign powers.Error processing SSI file

The only historical structure Minab city is the Hazareh Castle. It is believed that the city was constructed by two sisters named Bibi Minoo and Bibi Nazanin. It is said that in the past two castles were present here, but one of these is no more, and the other is the famous Bibi Minoo Castle. The same was a seat of local rule till the late Qajar era.Error processing SSI file

This relic is one of the important vestiges from the times of the Portuguese and their domination on the coastal areas and islands of the Persian Gulf. The same is located in north of this island. This structure was constructed in the year 1507 A.D. on the orders of Alfonso de Albequrque the renounced Portuguese navigator. The same was constructed in vicinity known as Murna. It is an irregularly shaped and multi-sided construction, with walls to the thickness of 3.5 m and towers reaching an elevation of 12 m.Error processing SSI file

This castle is located near Bandar Khamir and the entrance of the same is a spectacular construction of stone and gypsum, and has been built according to European architecture. In the four corners there are four circular towers, between every two a short tower is also built. This relic dates back to approximately a century.Error processing SSI file

This castle was constructed in the year 904 A.H. and is at a distance of 6 km. east of Bandar Lengeh. Within the castle are a number of ponds, cemeteries, and storage areas for edible commodities, amongst other remains. Stony crypts similar to those of the early cavemen dwellings can be noted on the heights in the surroundings.Error processing SSI file

This castle was built in the year 1030 A.H. to the north east of this island under the decree of the Spanish monarch of the times. The same has two ramparts and towers in the four corners. Within the castle a number of extremely ancient and rusty canons remain to date.Error processing SSI file

Another castle worth mentioning in this province is the Laft castle, situated in the south of the Laft village of Qeshm.Error processing SSI file

In Bandar Laft there is the remains of an ancient quay, which is most probably related to the Medes, Achaemenians and Sassanids. This pier is 130 m. in length and has a solid floor to the thickness of 7 m. The walls of this construction is of stone and measures 3 m.Error processing SSI file

This ancient city is related to the Sassanid era, and till the 4th century A.H. was a thriving city. Earthenware and other evidences have been found through surveys made here. The estimated length of this city is 7 km. and sweet-water was utilized here.Error processing SSI file

On the hills surrounding Bandar Kang, are the remnants of a city dating to 3000 years back. There is a possibility that this city has perished due to a fire or an earthquake, and now lies buried in the earth. No valid information has been recorded for this city.Error processing SSI file

On one of the hills of Koolqan is the remnants of a water canal, which is in suitable condition. The same has stone walls to the length of more than 100 m. which is an interesting feature by itself. In another section of this hill is a graveyard with two rows of tombs at regular intervals of 2 m. from each other. Other evidences in this vicinity reveal that a bazaar was present here in the past. The Koolqan hills overlook the sea and the (earthen) 'Balatal' Dam, offering a beautiful landscape.Error processing SSI file

Another ancient city worth mentioning in the province is the city of Soroo which lies to the west of the current city of Bandar Abbas, forming one of its localities.Error processing SSI file

The first water reservoir in Qeshm was constructed in the year 1202 A.H. by the spouse of Sheikh Abdollah, (ruler of the times). Its ceiling has been repaired for several times. The architecture of this water reservoir is interesting.Error processing SSI file

The same is the only historical bath in Bandar Abbas, and there is a strong possibility that this be related to the Safavid period. This bath is located in the Eivazi vicinity of the city. During the Qajar era, this bath was endowed to the Galehdari Mosque by Haj Sheikh Ahmad Galehdari. The structure is rectangular in shape and has small and large domes.Error processing SSI file

The above mentioned is located near the archeological city of Kharbez, southwest of the Qeshm Island, between the city and a temple known as Mehri. This large reservoir is a remnant from the Sassanid era. The same was in a state of ruins, but in recent years has undergone repairs to a greater extent.Error processing SSI file

The Portuguese well and the wells of Bandar Laft can be mentioned as other water reservoirs in Hormozgan Province.Error processing SSI file

The above mentioned temple was constructed in the year 1310 A.H., during the rule of Mohammad Hassan Khan Sa'ad-ol-Molk. The same comprises of a square room in the center of which is a jagged shaped dome. The architecture of this structure is very similar to that of the Indian temples.Error processing SSI file

Within a distance of 15 km. from the city of Qeshm, en route from the ancient vicinity of Kharbez to Bandar Sooza, there is a lengthy mountain range. In the heart of these mountains are wonderful rocky effects of architecture. Access to this area can be gained by openings which are similar to caves. Behind these openings is a space with an area of 25 sq. m. and with an elevation of 2.7 m. (that has been dug out). This space or hall was most probably used for special religious rituals for the deceased or was used for the worship of 'Izad Mehr' or 'Mitra'. The same is a remnant from the Medes.Error processing SSI file

The same has been constructed at a distance of 50 km. west of Bandar Abbas on the Kal (Kool) River. It is a relic of the Safavid era. Currently 33 arches remain to be seen of this bridge.Error processing SSI file

This is one of the most interesting bazaars in south of Iran, and is according to the traditional style. A part of this bazaar is covered.Error processing SSI file

Other bazaars of the province mention can be made of the 'Panj Shanbeh' or (Thursday) bazaar of Minab and the fish market (bazaar) of Bandar Abbas.Error processing SSI file

In the Koolqan valley is the remnant of the Balatal Dam. The lake of this dam has a length of 1,000 m. with the width of 500 m. This lake used to collect the rain water of the surrounding valleys. The said dam is a relic of the Sassanid era and has a panoramic view.Error processing SSI file

The original construction of this mosque can be related to the early Islamic period, coinciding with the times of the conquests of the ports and islands of Iran by Amr-ebne-Aas. This relic was built under his command in the Koosheh Village of Qeshm. The mosque was repaired once in the year 244 A.H. In the year 737 A.H. it underwent renovations under the orders of Sultan Fathollah, a descendant of Sultan Mahmood who was possibly one of the monarchs of Hormoz or Larestan.Error processing SSI file

This mosque is located near Bandar Khamir, in the village of Dejkan. Its pillars and nocturnal area are of sculptured and carved stone; whereas the ceilings, entrances and the adornments of the porches are all worked with sculptured limestone. The porches are worked in a jagged pattern and the effect of Indian architecture can be noted here.Error processing SSI file

This ancient mosque is located near the sea and in the western sector of the city of Bandar Lengeh. The same was constructed by Haj Mohammad-ebne-Abbas in the year 1280 A.H. The minaret of the mosque reaches a height of 22 m. and is 3.5 m. in girth. The architectural effect at the top of the minaret is a combination of Indian and Iranian design. Internally the mode of architecture strongly resembles that of the Indian temples.Error processing SSI file

The said mosque was constructed in the year 1202 A.H., and is a memorial of 'Sooqiyeh' the spouse of the ruler of the times in Qeshm. The mosque has a rectangular shaped nocturnal area, with 16 columns in two rows.Error processing SSI file

Other mosques of the province are, the Menbar Kohneh Mosque, Bandar Abbas Jame' Mosque, Naseri and Sahrabaqi Mosques.Error processing SSI file

This mausoleum is located in the village of Turiyan of Qeshm Island and the major portion of its construction is with cobbled and slabs of stone. This is possibly a relic from the Ilkhanan era. There is also an ancient graveyard surrounding this structure, with tomb stones having Farsi, Arabic and Kufic engravings.Error processing SSI file

This Imamzadeh is located alongside the Bandar Abbas - Soroo Road, towards the pier of Bandar Abbas and within a distance of 250 m. The remains of this structure resemble that of a ziggurat from the Ilamite and Babylonian periods. In addition, the jagged stone of the dome distinctively displays an effect from the south of Iran.Error processing SSI file

There is a small island situated opposite Bandar Laft, between Laft and Khamir, known as Andarabi Island. To the south east of this island is the above mentioned pilgrimage site. Presently, this island is devoid of inhabitants, but the site is held in great respect by fishermen and navigators.Error processing SSI file

The same is located near the ancient city of Kharbez, beyond the Mehri Temple and on the edge of a precipice. It comprises of two inter-connecting rooms constructed of sun baked bricks and clay, with an area of 4m. x 3 m.Error processing SSI file

These are the following: Imamzadeh Shah Mohammad Taqi, alongside the Bandar Abbas - Soroo road, Imamzadeh Seyed Mozafar and Imamzadeh Seyed Kamel in Bandar Abbas and Imamzadeh Amir Dewan in Minab.Error processing SSI file

This island is located at a distance of 222 km. from Bandar Abbas and 75 km. from Bandar Lengeh. Its length and width is approximately 4.5 km. with an area of 2.2 sq. km. and at a height of 46 m. above sea-level. This island is comparatively warm in respect to its surroundings and has a warm and humid climate. The center of this island is the city of Abumoosa.Error processing SSI file

The same lies like an oyster shell amidst the waters of the Persian Gulf, covering an area of 41.9 sq. km. Hormoz Island is located to the southeast of Bandar Abbas and lies within 10 nautical miles from it.Error processing SSI file

This island lies to the north of Hormoz Strait, its length being 115 km. and its width ranging from 10-35 km. The city of Qeshm is its center, the same being in the northeast of this island with an area of 3 sq. km. and at an elevation of 10 m. above sea-level. The island is situated at a distance of 1,353 km. from Tehran and 12 nautical miles from the main land. Climatically it has one long warm and humid season, and a shorter moderate one. Its rocky coastal areas are favored by crabs and lobsters. Besides which, its forested vicinities such as Harrah (mangroves) Protected Area located between the north of the island and Bandar Khamir are wonderful sights to visit.Error processing SSI file

The other islands of Hormozgan Province are named as, Lavan, Hindorabi, Shatvar, Larak, Hengam, Tonb-e-Bozorg and Tonb-e-Kuchak, Siri, Foroor-e-Bozorg and Foroor-e-Kuchak.Error processing SSI file

The Province of Hormozgan is situated in the south western most sector of the Zagross Mountain Range and is devoid of a permanent reserve of snow. A major portion of the water of the rivers evaporates due to the heat and after flowing for a short distance, it dries up. Whereas a number of other rivers flow through the coastal salt marshes and gypsum plains and finally flow into the Persian Gulf.Error processing SSI file

This river takes its source in the southern portion of the Haft Chen Mountains, 15 km. north east of Bandar Alaviyeh. The river flows from west to east, and to the east of Bandar Lengeh seeps into the sands. The same re-appears and in the vicinity of Khuran flows into the Persian Gulf.Error processing SSI file

This river is formed by adjoining of two rivers of Roudan and Joqeen. These two rivers meet near the village of Borjegan, 25 km. south east of Minab city. The Minab Dam is located on this river, and is 2 km. east of Minab. This dam alongside its lake forms a reserve of water for the verdant surroundings which is also an interesting tourist spot.Error processing SSI file

Other rivers of the province are, Shoor, Shameel, Jalabi, Jegeen, Maza'ie and Gaz.Error processing SSI file

Mineral water has always been a source of attraction and especially so to do with tourist activities. In land surveys and studies, Hormozgan Province is said to be relatively rich in such resources. The followings are worth mentioning:

This spring is situated at a distance of 34 km. northeast of Bandar Abbas and alongside the Bandar Abbas - Sirjan Road. The water from this spring which is calcium sulfuric in nature is used for irrigating the palm groves or plantations and also for bathing purposes. This spring is equipped with two segregated pools for ladies and gents.Error processing SSI file

The said spring is located on Bandar Abbas - Hadji Abad Road and is approximately 30 km. east of Hadji Abad, nestling in the skirts of the mountains. The water of this spring is of a sulfuric type.Error processing SSI file

These three springs are located approximately 60 km. to the northeast of Bandar Abbas, and is accessible from the branch road running between Bandar Abbas to Sirjan. The first spring lies at a distance of about 28 km. from this point. The second spring is 1 km. to the east of the first. From Bandar Abbas to the fork of Khorgoo is a distance of 30 km. from where approximately another 20 km. is the site of the third spring. The water of the first two springs is sulfuric in nature.Error processing SSI file

This spring lies at a distance of 7 km. east of Bandar Khamir city. The vicinity has two pools and also twelve rooms to accommodate passengers free of charge.Error processing SSI file

Other such springs are: Chah Ahmad and the thermal spring of Sayeh Khosh on the Bandar Khamir - Bandar Lengeh Road; the thermal springs of Badun and Ask on Bandar Lengeh - Gazil Village Road; the thermal spring of Malaieji on Bandar Lengeh - Bandar Kang Road; the Charak Thermal Spring on Bandar Lengeh - Gav Bandi Road; the Fotuhiyeh Thermal Spring on the Bestak - Lar Road; the Todoluyeh Thermal Spring on Bandar Abbas - Lar Road; the Bari Thermal Spring on Khorgoo - Sorkhan Road; the Sorkhan Thermal Spring on Khorgoo - Sorkhan branch Road; the Kashkoo Thermal Spring on Bandar Abbas - Kashkoo Road; the Nian Thermal Spring 3 km. from Nian village; and the thermal springs of Deh-e-Sheikh and Chestaneh near the village of Khoon Sorkh.Error processing SSI file

The Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman have embedded hundreds of water species and in addition these waters form rich sources of sea food. Besides which this area is also a wildlife refuge, both for animal species and immigrant/endemic birds. In spite of the climatic conditions, limited sweet-water resources and scanty vegetation, some of the rare vegetation and animal species are found in this province. The protected areas in Hormozgan Province are as follows:
Genoo Protected Area: located at a distance of 29 km. northwest of the township of Bandar Abbas.
Forested Protected Area of Harrah (mangrove): that are scattered from Hormoz Strait towards the east in the coasts of Oman.
The most important animal species in the protected areas of Hormozgan Province are: Various species of immigrant birds from Africa or India. Animal species such as wild goat, wild sheep, bear, deer, hyena, wolf, fox, boar, partridge, dull yellow partridge, eagle, crab, (lobster), dolphin, snake, crocodile, tortoise, a variety of swallows, eagle, heron, and waterfowls such as flamingos and pelicans.
The most important species of vegetation found here are, tropical trees, (desert) steppes, and vegetation from colder regions such as pine, cypress tree, wild olives and the box tree.Error processing SSI file

The major portion of Hormozgan Province has a mountainous terrain, influencing the rainfall, and providing scope for mountainous sports on the other hand

These mountain ranges lie in the township of Jask, and form two distinctive ranges named as, the eastern Bashagard range and the western Bashagard range. Its highest peak is 'Kooh Mehr' reaching an elevation of 2,046 m. This mountain is situated in the village of western Bashagard.Error processing SSI file

The Genoo Mountains with an elevation of 2,347 m. lie 29 km. northwest of Bandar Abbas between the villages of Feen, Siyahoo and Asiyeen. The weather in this area is relatively moderate, and due to this purpose it is renounced for its environmental and recreational areas.Error processing SSI file

These are the following: The Farqan Homak Mountains with an elevation of 3,267 m. to the north of Bandar Abbas and to the south of Faremaneh Village; the Shab Mountains with a height of 3,681 m. to the south east of Bandar Lengeh and the south west of Bandar Khamir; the Kooh-e-Siyah Mountains reaching a height of 2,225 m. to the north of Bandar Lengeh.Error processing SSI file

The Anthropological Museum of Bandar Abbas is located in the ancient Hindu temple of this city. Here former remnants of the former civilizations of the coastal and surrounding islands are on display. Besides which relics such as ancient articles that were in use, local apparel and implements utilized in the past for handicrafts can be noted in this museum. Old coins and relics discovered in the 'Soroo' hillock are also on display here.Error processing SSI file

This ceremony is performed when the rain fail to fall. The chief prayer leader arranges such that the congregation assembles at the public place for prayers or (Mossallah) for this event. Groups of children are sent out amongst the inhabitants to collect money and eatables. Whilst they are busy they chant songs and rhymes to do with rain. This continues till the night or even till another two days.
The day after which the people set out to the Qebleh Do'a to eat the special food prepared (that has been blessed). Here the food is distributed amongst the poor and this takes another two days. Then according to the instructions of the chief prayer leader, the people of the city go on a fast for rain. They congregate in the mosques where the Holy Qoran is recited. On the fourth day the inhabitants join the assembly at the Qebleh Do'a where they plead for rain. As it is believed, the wishes of a person who is fasting is granted. On the final day of the ceremony, people wear white and clean apparel, and pray, after which the sermon is read and the prayer leader prays for rain and the congregation chant 'Amen'.Error processing SSI file

The beliefs regarding the winds of Zaar came all the way from Ethiopia to the Islamic land. "Hawa" people where those who involved by one of these winds. These are so to speak evil winds that possess a person, who then has to be freed from it by the performance of a special ritual. The person or patient possessed has to encounter with Baba or Mama Zaar, or the exorcist. This ceremony takes place on a Tuesday night.
Before the ceremony men and women dress up, comb their hair and lavishly make the use of special scents. First a special potent is prepared for the patient, who Baba Zaar has kept under strict watch and away from the eyes of the others for a week. Within this time if the patient is a man, he is forbidden to set eyes on a dog, hen or any women (if the patient is a women the case is the opposite). During this week the special potent is rubbed on the patient's body and a little is also given to him to drink, whilst a few men and women with dark complexion having good voices beat the drums and dance. Before the ceremony is about to begin, a feast is spread out with an array of food, scented herbs and blood.
The patient is compelled to drink blood, or else the wind will not speak up! During the dancing, the patient moves in rhythmic movements and gradually goes into hallucination. Now only Baba Zaar can contact with him or rather speak to him, who pleads with Zaar to relieve the patient. There after the patient is compelled to keep clean, wear white clothing, strictly avoid alcoholic spirits, and commit no sin, or else he'd be possessed by Zaar again.Error processing SSI file

Other ceremonies held in Hormozgan Province are, the Iranian new year or Norooz ceremony, Chahar Shanbeh Soori or (the last Wednesday function of the year), Eid-e-Fitr (the celebration after the fasting month of Ramadan), Eid-Qorban (the feast of sacrifice), the celebration held on the 15th of Sha'ban or lunar month which coincides with the birthday of the 12th Imam of the Shiite sect. Sacrifices held for rain, wedding ceremonies, prayer ceremonies held in Imamzadeh Seyed Mozafar and ceremonies to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Mohammad (AS).Error processing SSI file

Ancient villages are present in Hormozgan Province and these display spectacular features regarding the architecture and physical structure. Thereby these can be accounted for as interesting historical relics.Error processing SSI file

This village is on the coastal area, and is one of the important and oldest villages in the township of Qeshm. It has a warm and dry climate. Due to the cape and suitable vegetation coverage, wild life and birds such as herons and gulls form an important part of the natural surroundings. The historical relics of this village are the charcoal reservoir, guest house or inn, cemetery, church etc.Error processing SSI file

The ancient village of Kharbas is on Qeshm Island and located on the fork road of Qeshm - Dargahan. Nestling in the heights of this village are historical evidences revealing architectural effects in the rocks. Some believe this to be the place of worship of the Mithraism cult or the Anahita Temple (deity of water).Error processing SSI file

The architectural facets of the dwellings in this village display interesting points. The main feature here is the traditional air vents or ventilators in various sizes. The constructions or houses are built close together and the streets are extremely narrow too. Historical relics in Laft are the following: The Naderi and Portuguese castles, two water reservoirs having round domes, an historical cemetery, and the pilgrimage sites of Seyed Hassan Mansoor, Sheikh Moosa and Sheikh Andara'ie.Error processing SSI file

This village is located 39 km. to the south west of Qeshm city and is on the coastal area, and Hormoz Strait is to its south. It has a warm and dry climate. Historical vestiges near this village are the Leit or Khalesi Dam which lies 4 km. north west of the Dirastan Village. The Guran Dam is on the south of the Guran Village.Error processing SSI file

Other villages having interesting features are, Dejgan in the north east of Bandar Lengeh, Khorgoo in the north east of Bandar Abbas and Sa'adat Abad in the township of Hadji Abad.Error processing SSI file