Babak Fort

Babak Fort is a magnificent castle that was the defensive place of Babak Khorramdin against the Arab invasion.

Babak Fort is placed on top of a mountain near Kaleybar, East Azerbaijan Province. This defensive place dates back to the Sasanian Empire. It is called Babak Fort, due to the name of Babak Khorramdin, the Iranian commander against the Arab invasion.

• Babak Khorramdin

Babak Khorramdin was one of the brave Iranian commanders who fought against the Abbasid Caliphate. He was the leader of Khurramites or Sorkh-Jâmagân. In the same era, Mazyar from Mazandaran Province, Abu Muslim from Khorasan Province, and Ya’qub ibn al-Layth from Sistan and Baluchestan Province were the other commanders who fought against the Abbasid Caliphate. When the right hand of Babak Khorramdin has been cut, he covered his face with his blood. This reaction was to show that the fear of death was not the reason for his pale-face. He was the symbol of liberty.

• Architecture

Babak Fort has constructed like the Sasanian and Parthian architectural style. Babak Khorramdin restored that, added some area, and finally make there the defensive fort. This fort has only one entrance gate you can’t enter there, from the mountainous part. To reach the fort, you must go through a narrow route with a height of 100 meters after passing the entrance and fortress. When you see the fort you must go on through an impassable route overlooks to a valley with a depth of 400 meters.

There are four cylindrical watchtowers on the four corners of the fort. The fort has been constructed in two-story. You will see a hall with seven chambers in around. These chambers will get you to the central hall. Also, there are some chambers and Abanbar on the east side of the fort which the ceiling of this part has been covered by Barrel vault.

The discoveries of Babak Fort consist of the first painted glazed potteries that date back to the early 7th century AH and some copper coins belong to the Eldiguzids.

• What is the best time to go?

If you decide to visit the Babak Fort, suggest you travel to this region during a hot period. Due to the mountainous climate of East Azerbaijan Province, the best time to visit Babak Fort is from late March until late May and from late August until early October. During these periods, you will enjoy your journey through the green nature of Kaleybar.

• Getting there?

Babak Fort is located 50 kilometers north of Ahar city, in the Kaleybar region. Pay attention that the route of getting Babak Fort is dangerous and you can reach there by walking. The distance from Kaleybar to the fort is about three kilometers. This following map will help you to find the exact destination: