Anzali port, Iran’s European heaven

Bandar-e Anzali ,one of the most attractive cities in the north of Iran , draws thousands of tourist severy year. With many attractions to offer, it would encourage you to stay for several days. One of Gilan’s spectacular highlights, it is precious in terms of nature and architecture. It is 40 km from Rasht ( about half an hour) and is the fifth most active economical port in the country.

Why is it called Anzali?

There are different opinions why it’s called Anzali. Some believe that when the last Arab conquerors reached Anzali after passing through Alborz Mountains, they ordered their soldiers to get off and settle. So Anzali means “ get off “ in Arabic. Also,some believe that it is a modified term of a Russian word meaning “Stay” but the closest term which makes more sense is a berth ( Anzal means anchor). In some Greek texts Anzalia or Anzalius means a pond or a marsh ; perhaps it’s not wrong to say that its roots come from the greek words. As the last story about the name, it’s noteworthy that the founders of the city were two competing brothers named Anzal Khan and Ghazan Khan who decided to establish it.

Attractions in the port

Once traveling, you shouldn’t miss the highlights among which are:

Anzali wetland

According to the environmental experts, it is among the largest and most fascinating wetlands in the world in terms of its biodiversity. It’s located on the shore of the eastwest of the Caspian Sea and in the west of Sefid Rud delta, south of the city of Anzali. Encompassing an area of some 280 square kilometers , it’s depth ranges from 1.5 to 2.8 meters. A few small and large islands have risen around.

Europe’s heaven in Iran

In winter, it hosts a variety of marine birds such as white swan, goose, duck, coot and other migratory birds. The water lilies growing all over the place have made it more charming. Also reeds and sea tulips on the edge of the port have created a hugely magnificent landscape. Boat riding on water is among the most enjoyable moments in your trip.

Breakwater

The barrier built to prevent waves from damaging the ships and boats, has now turned into a recreational resort. This is a place where almost each visitor would take one memorable photo, at least.
The construction of Ghazian and Anzali windbreakers started in 1274 and ended in 1293.They were built on the wooden poles in the bed of the sea and were restored a few years ago.

Anzali bridges

In the past when the cities of Gahzian and Anzali were isolated, boats were used to cross.
In 1314, the bridges were built to connect the two cities. The existing bridge ,which has retained its past appearance, was built with concrete. One of the mouths of the bridge was movable.

Clock tower

One of the most ancient buildings in Anzali, the tower, still in use, lies behind the Sepah Bazar and on Anzali square. Apparently, it was constructed under the order of Khosrow Khan Gorji , Nasereddin Shah’s governor, in the city in 1194 ( solar calendar).
The 28-meter brick tower with a light was built for observation and navigating the ships. When it was renovated in 1307, 4 clocks were installed on each sides. It is visible from a distance. (Even when you are several kilometers away)

Coast boulvard

Since it bordered Tsarist Russia and was a transit place between border cities , its architecture was influenced by them.

Anzali Boulevard

The broad park along the wetland covering an area of 3,500 meters was established in 1305. On its north, two famous Anzali breakwaters have created picturesque scenery. On the southern edge, there are tea houses and hookah cafes scattered around where flocks of young people , families and tourists come over especially on holiday nights.

Anzali palace

Between the two bridges of Anzali and Ghazian and near the coast, lies a royal palace in an area of about 1500 square meters. The Khoshtoria palace belonged to a Russian merchant who developed electricity in I ran. It has now converted to a military museum ( navy force museum) where a variety of cold weapons and firearms from the Safavid era are displayed.

Hafeziyeh

Above the boulevard, near the municipality building, there is a white monument resembling Hafeziyeh ( Hafez’s tomb)in shiraz. It was built in 1311 with the pursuit of municipality and a team of German architects. It used to be a venue for live concert shows but it has now changed into an art hub where exhibits of paintings and handicrafts are held.

Mirza Kuchak Khan’s ship

The only floating ship on the northern coastlines of the country is now used for entertaining visitors. Having a large meal while listening to music aboard is a memorable experience. It’s well worth a visit.

What to eat?

Gilan’s cuisine is very famous and so is Anzali’s. Seafoods and seasonal dishes which are made with local herbs along with mouthwatering kebabs are only a part of its diverse cuisine. The most famous food is Fesenjan; a Iranian stew (a khoresh) flavored with pomegranate syrup and ground walnuts. It is traditionally made with poultry (duck or chicken), but also variants using balls of ground meat, ghormeh cut lamb, fish. It is like the Fesenjan stew cooked across the country except that pomegranates are sour and duck is used instead of chicken or minced meat. You should also try Torshe kebab; it’s ingredients are lamb or calf meat, soaked in a mix of crushed walnuts, pomegranate syrup, onions, Chuchagh, and parsley for half a day. North’s fish are delicious but Suf, White fish and Uzun Borun are best options. The best starter is Eshpel, walnuts and beans. Eggplants Burani , pickled olive and garlic shouldn’t be missed either. Among other delicious dishes are Kal Kabab, Torshe shami, and Khoresh (stew).
Shanbe Bazar ( a local market taking place on Saturdays) has been active for 70years on Mirza Kuchak Khan street. In the market where local Anzali people as well as other villagers gather to sell all sorts of things from chicken and hen, local herbs, pickles, agricultural implements , to clothing and shoes.
Among other shopping centers of the city are Anzali market located on Pasdaran Street, and Pardis market on Motahhari street Gilan market ,in Ghazian, and Sepah market , on Sepah street. The coast market, too, is a place where handicrafts are offered. It lies on the coastline. You can find the high quality products including fish, local herbs, pickled olive and garlic in the Shanbe Bazar. Among the local sweets are Halva Asali, Kaka, and Nabati, found in most of the city’s sweet shops. Pearl weaving products are the most common handicrafts you can get in markets and souvenir shops.