Kandovan Village

Near Tabriz, East Azerbaijan, Iran

---

Kandovan Village, located near Tabriz in East Azerbaijan Province, is one of Iran’s most unique and picturesque settlements. The village is famous for its cone-shaped homes carved directly into volcanic rock formations created by ancient eruptions of Mount Sahand. These rock dwellings, known locally as “karaans,” have been inhabited for centuries and are often compared to the cave villages of Cappadocia in Turkey. What makes Kandovan especially remarkable is that it remains a living village, with residents continuing to live in the rock-hewn homes while maintaining many traditional customs and occupations. The thick stone walls naturally keep the interiors cool in summer and warm in winter, and the village is also known for its scenic mountain setting, handicrafts, and mineral-rich spring water. Combining extraordinary geology, history, and daily life, Kandovan Village is one of Iran’s most distinctive cultural and natural attractions.