Masouleh, a beautiful region with special architecture

If you search for “the most beautiful towns and villages in the world” on the internet, you’ll likely come across names of places mostly located in Europe. However, there are many towns and villages around the world whose beauty is truly unique and indescribable — yet they remain little known simply because they haven’t been introduced to travelers.

In Iran, too, there are many beautiful towns and villages — each with its own historical and natural charm — that could easily earn a place among the most beautiful in the world. Among them, Masouleh, located in the northern regions of Iran, stands out for its stunning scenery and unique beauty. These qualities have made it widely famous across the country, with Iranians often referring to it as one of the most picturesque places in Iran.

Where is Masouleh located?
Masouleh is a village in the Fuman County of Gilan Province, situated in the mountainous southwest of the region. The village covers an area of about 100 hectares. It lies 60 kilometers from the city of Rasht and 36 kilometers from Fuman. Although Masouleh is officially classified as a city in administrative terms, its population is less than 1,000, making it one of the smallest cities in Iran. One of the main reasons for its fame is its unique and remarkable architectural structure.

The houses in this region are built in a stepped, terraced layout — where the roof of each house serves as the courtyard of the one above it. It is said that this architectural style dates back to before the arrival of Islam in Iran (7th century CE). In Iran’s mountainous regions, particularly in the Oramanat area of Kurdistan Province, many villages have been constructed following this same pattern. This design not only made better use of the foothill and mountain terrain but also enhanced the security of the settlement by creating compact residential clusters that were easier to defend against invaders.

Most of the buildings in Masouleh are two stories high and feature a section known as the “Sumeh.” The Sumeh is an enclosed, windowless space located at the back of the house, designed to stay protected from cold weather and rainfall. Another common feature in Masouleh homes is the summer section, situated in the outermost part of the house. This area usually includes a terrace and several windows, allowing for better ventilation during the warmer months. The primary construction material used in Masouleh is wood, readily available from the surrounding forests.

History, Culture, and Attractions of Masouleh Village
The oldest remnants related to Masouleh are located about 10 kilometers away from its current site, in a place known as “Old Masouleh” (Kohneh Masouleh). This ancient area lies along the road from Masouleh to Khalkhal, which was once one of the main trade routes connecting Gilan Province to other regions. Today, Old Masouleh is recognized as a protected area, preserving the historical and cultural heritage of the region.

According to archaeological excavations carried out in 1995 (1374 AH), Old Masouleh was one of the most prominent settlements in the region between the 12th and 15th centuries AD. The discovery of numerous pottery and metal artifacts indicates that metalworking technology had reached an advanced stage in this area. The current inhabitants of Masouleh are believed to be descendants of the people who once lived in Old Masouleh, who migrated to the present location for unknown reasons. Some experts attribute this migration to a powerful earthquake, while others suggest it was caused by a devastating plague. However, there is no definitive evidence confirming either theory.

Several theories have been proposed regarding the origin of the name “Masouleh.” One suggestion is that the name is a modified form of “Mahsalar,” which gradually evolved into “Masala” and eventually became “Masouleh.” Another theory interprets the name as being derived from two ancient words: “Mas” meaning mountain, and “Oleh” meaning high or elevated. Together, these words describe Masouleh as a “highland” or “mountainous place.”

Among the attractions of Masouleh village is its traditional bazaar, where a large part is dedicated to Gilani handicrafts. The handmade dolls, known for their vibrant colors and joyful designs, are among the most distinctive products, bringing a cheerful atmosphere to the market. Masouleh also offers traditional-style eateries that welcome visitors with a variety of local foods and beverages, providing an authentic taste of the region. Another notable site is the Shrine of Oun ibn Mohammad, an important religious and architectural landmark. The shrine has an octagonal structure crowned with two domes. According to an inscription inside, its construction dates back to the early 17th century CE. In the shrine’s cemetery, gravestones from the Qajar era (19th century) can still be seen, adding to the historical significance of the site.

National Registration of Masouleh Village
Masouleh, with its pristine landscapes, numerous historical monuments, and unique architectural and urban design, was inscribed on the National Heritage List of Iran in 1975 (1354 SH).