TEHRAN – An exhibition of Iranian handicrafts and traditional arts was inaugurated in Birjand, eastern South Khorasan province, on Monday.

Some 208 stalls are running during the exhibit, of which 154 are dedicated to handicrafts sale, 34 to related organizations, nine to national and international cities and villages across the country, and 11 to the tourism industry, ISNA quoted Hadi Shahverdi as saying on Tuesday.

Craftspeople from 26 take part in the event, which will run until Friday, the official added.

Artworks such as traditional textiles, wickerwork, pottery and ceramics, metalwork, glassware, and traditional embroidery are on display at the exhibit, he noted.

Several handicraft workshops are also organized on the sidelines of the exhibit, he mentioned.

Located in eastern Iran, South Khorasan is home to many historical and natural attractions, such as Birjand Castle, Dragon Cave, Furg Citadel, and Polond Desert.

The province is also known for its famous rugs as well as its saffron and barberry, which are produced in almost all parts of the province.

With 14 entries, Iran ranks first globally for the number of cities and villages registered by the World Crafts Council, as China with seven entries, Chile with four, and India with three ones come next. For instance, Shiraz is named a “world city of [diverse] handicrafts”, Malayer is a global hub for woodcarving and carved-wood furniture, while Zanjan has gained the title of a “world city of filigree”.

In addition, the ancient city of Shiraz has been chosen to host the 39th General Assembly of the World Crafts Council-Asia-Pacific Region (WCC-APR) in May 2023. Shiraz has a remarkable amount of handicraft pioneers. With an average age of 70, some of these pioneers are still active in their workshops. The occupational records of about 100 pioneers are collected and are annually praised by the custodians of the WCC General Office.

ABU/AM