Visiting the Underground City of Kish—an experience you will never forget!

A trip is an exciting and memorable event, leaving behind dozens—perhaps even hundreds—of memories. Yet among all these memories, some stand out more vividly; the ones that, whenever you recall that particular journey, instantly come to mind and make you want to share them with everyone! Visiting a unique tourist attraction can be the spark for creating such unforgettable experiences. Here, we introduce a historical site that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression: the Underground City of Kish, also known as the “Kish Qanat.”

Features and History of the Underground City of Kish

 The creation of this extraordinary structure is attributed to 2,500 years ago. Initially, this channel was excavated as a qanat (traditional water channel), but over time, with the expansion of urban water supply systems, it lost its original function and was abandoned. In 1999 (1378 SH / 1999 AD), due to its cool environment, fresh water, and fossil-rich structure, investors were encouraged to utilize it. Consequently, with private investment and the application of traditional Iranian architectural principles, the qanat was rehabilitated. Restoration began with the installation of a protective structure called a “kol” over the freshwater source and its channels and continued with the reinforcement and preservation of the walls and ceiling. During these operations, the qanat’s area expanded to 10,000 square meters, and several bazaars, a museum, and restaurants were established, all respecting traditional Iranian architectural principles.

On the coral ceiling of the qanat, traces of shells and marine creatures can be seen, which over time have fossilized. This ceiling was once part of the seabed. The qanat reaches a depth of 16 meters from the ground, and in some areas, the height of the coral ceiling from the floor is about eight meters. Interestingly, despite the relatively warm climate of Kish Island, the qanat maintains a cool temperature throughout the year.

Inside the qanat, fresh water flows, sourced from the Safin and Baghu regions on opposite sides of Kish Island. After entering the qanat, the water splits into three separate channels, which later converge and continue toward the ancient city of Harireh. Most of this water comes from seasonal rainfall. The coral structure of the qanat naturally filters the water before it enters. Historically, the water of the qanat was famous for its therapeutic properties and was exported to Persian Gulf countries, often exchanged for other goods. The soil from the qanat was also used in the brick-making industry.

Attractions of the Kish Underground City

The Kish Underground City comprises several sections open to visitors. Among these, the Persian Gulf Museum, covering an area of about 280 square meters, is a notable part. Inside the museum, there is a display highlighting a fossil embedded in the ceiling of the qanat, estimated to be 570 million years old. Other exhibits include historical documents, old maps of the Persian Gulf, and information about the lifestyle and customs of the people of the Persian Gulf.

Kariz of Kish: A Unique Tourist Attraction In 1994 (1373 AH), a bazaar was established within the Kariz, where various goods—including handicrafts from Kish Island and the  surrounding areas of the Persian Gulf—are offered for sale. The complex also contains a mosque, known as the world’s only mosque with a coral ceiling. The flow of water through the Kariz has created several payabs—shallow structures similar to pools from which water can be drawn. There are six payabs in the Kariz area, some of which experts date back approximately eight centuries. Various recreational and service facilities have been set up in different parts of the Kariz to ensure that visitors have a memorable tour and stay. Due to its unique and distinctive features, a section of the Kariz has been designated as a “photographers’ corner,” allowing tourists to capture the best souvenir photos. The beautiful lighting in Kariz further enhances opportunities for stunning photography.