TEHRAN – An annual festival dedicated to roses and rosewater has been officially registered in the national list for intangible cultural heritage, marking a significant milestone for Khomein’s Shahabieh village.

Emphasizing the deep historical roots and authenticity within the county, Khomein’s cultural heritage chief pointed out that the roses and rosewater, produced predominantly in the Shahabieh area, are not only key local products but also integral to the cultural identity of the region.

Ali Mashhadi noted that with a rich heritage and the efforts of the provincial organizations, the festival has been successfully added to the national tourism events calendar.

“Henceforth, the festival would take place annually from May 8 to 10,” Mashhadi noted.  “Now officially recognized as rose and rosewater days.”

This period marks a vibrant celebration in the Shahabieh village, where visitors from across the country gather to experience the unique fragrances and beauty of roses, alongside the traditional art of rosewater distillation, according to the official.

Mashhadi explained that the inclusion of this event in the tourism calendar aims to streamline and professionalize tourism in the region while organizing new tourist destinations and routes.

“This initiative is expected to significantly boost the local economy by increasing tourist influx,” the chief further explained. “Who are drawn not only to the festival but also to the rich cultural tapestry of the area.”

Throughout the three-day event, the village of Shahabieh transforms into a bustling hub of activity, Mahhadi added.

The official in his concluding remarks, stated that the arranged programs, include a diverse array of stalls showcasing exquisite local handicrafts and a dedicated exhibition for rose and rosewater products.

Golab or rosewater is obtained from a particular kind of Rose, known as Mohammadi roses in Iran. Harvesting flowers seems to be the most important part of the process. They should be picked from dawn through morning very carefully. The petals are put into massive copper pots and boiled, and then the extracted water is kept in special bottles. The longer the distillation is, the better will be the quality of the rosewater.

Golab is used nationwide in diverse traditional dishes to flavor them or consumed as a religious perfume as well.

The distillation of flowers and herbs has a deep history in Iran. Many believe traditionally distilled rosewater is of higher quality than that produced in factories probably due to shorter time intervals between the harvest and distillation practices.

XF/AM