TEHRAN – The handicraft scene in Esfahak village has played a pivotal role in both reviving ancient skills and reshaping the local economy and tourism, a local official said on Monday.

“Craftspeople in Esfahak have significantly contributed to revitalizing the value chain of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and tourism in this historical village,” Hassanali Fouladi said.

In the historical village of Esfahak, which is part of Tabas county, more than 20 artisans are engaged in individual and collective handicraft production in 15 workshops located within the historical fabric of the village, Fouladi explained.

The official noted that Esfahak’s artisans are active in the fields of rug weaving, pottery, and palm leaf weaving, and their products are used for packaging and presenting the region’s souvenirs as effectively as possible.

“Palm leaf and pottery products are utilized for packaging agricultural products such as dates and local fresh vegetables, and the produced fabrics are used for packaging local dried vegetables.”

Elsewhere in his remarks, the official acknowledged the significant role of women in the local community and their participation in this productive chain.

In 2020, Esfahak won a TO-DO Award that is annually presented by the German Institute for Tourism and Development.

The ancient village boasts a mild climate ideal for crop growth, presenting lush scenery nearly everywhere you look. Its houses typically feature domed roofs and small windows.

In addition to handicrafts, local music holds particular significance for the villagers. Traditional songs and the playing of the tar, a local stringed instrument, are integral parts of village celebrations.

According to local tourism officials, the original essence of Esfahak was tragically altered by a 7.4 earthquake in 1978. Following the quake, a new village was constructed adjacent to the old one, which had been heavily affected. Today, with the active involvement of the locals, the refurbished village has been transformed into a tourist destination with plentiful eco-lodge units.

AM