TEHRAN - Mahneshan county's third Fish Cooking Festival has delighted visitors with flavors of tradition and history, taking place adjacent to the historical Behestan Castle.

In a celebration of Mahneshan's vibrant fishing and culinary heritage, the two-day festival which started on Thursday, drew locals, tourists, and dignitaries alike to indulge in the flavors and traditions of the region.

Addressing the festival, Zanjan’s director-general of cultural heritage, tourism, and handicrafts, underscored Mahneshan's pivotal role as a pillar for rainbow trout production within the province.

“With its numerous fish farms and substantial annual output,” Saeid Safavi noted, “Mahneshan has cemented its status as a cornerstone of the local economy and a hub of culinary innovation.”

Pointing to the festival’s mission, the director-general outlined that the event was planned to serve as a platform to promote the consumption of fish and raise awareness about the nutritional benefits they offer.

Safavi also pinpointed that the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from tourists eager to taste the unique gastronomic experiences offered by Mahneshan's renowned chefs.

Spanning two days, the festival showcased the artistry of fish cooking against the enchanting backdrop of Behestan Castle, a historical landmark steeped in centuries of cultural significance, according to the official.

Safavi also emphasized that cooking rainbow trout is registered in the national tourism events calendar and on a provincial scale.

Furthermore, Mohammadreza Mohammadi, the governor of Mahneshan, lauded the festival as a testament to the region's commitment to sustainable aquaculture and culinary excellence.

“With over 750 fish farms placed within the landscape and an annual fish production exceeding 12,000 tons,” Mohammadi added, “Mahneshan has emerged as a powerhouse in the realm of fish farming, contributing significantly to the province's economic vitality.”

He also emphasized the potential of such festivals to boost the region's recognition and the sale of rainbow trout from Mahneshan county.

Beyond its economic impact, the festival is able to catalyze promoting tourism and showcasing Mahneshan's rich cultural heritage to a broader audience, according to the governor.

The inaugural fish cooking festival in Mahneshan took place on March 3, 2023, while the second edition occurred on May 18, last year in Dandi, attracting government officials, locals, and tourists alike, who had the opportunity to sample an array of dishes featuring rainbow trout, expertly prepared using traditional techniques passed down through generations.