Abyaneh

About this place

Abyaneh is a mountain village in Natanz County, Isfahan Province, at 2,100 m in a valley of the Karkas Mountains, south-east of Kashan. Its houses stand out for their red colour, which comes from the surrounding clay rich in iron oxides. Lanes step up the slope between the houses, and the whole village looks carved from the red mountain itself. About 300 people lived here at the 2016 census, with the Barz River watering the valley. Its old structures include the Harpak Zoroastrian fire temple, Seljuq and Ilkhanid mosques and a mausoleum. Some older residents keep traditional dress, including the women's flowered scarves, which is part of the fame of the place. You walk narrow lanes between red mud houses with wooden balconies, carved doors and lattice windows. From higher up you look over the orchards and valley. These are real residents, not performers, so ask before photographing anyone, above all older women. You may find sellers with dried fruit and local foods by the road. It is about 47 km in a straight line from Kashan and about 45 km from Fin Garden. The lanes are steep, so wear comfortable shoes. Spring and autumn are the finest times. The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to Iran and warns that British nationals risk detention, so check official guidance before making any plans. We could not confirm the current state of this site.