TEHRAN - Isfahan province has exported over $15 million worth of handicrafts during the past Iranian year (ended on March 20), the provincial tourism chief said on Thursday.

Amir Karamzadeh said the figure doubles that of a year earlier. He attributed the substantial growth in exports to the province’s recovery efforts following the COVID-19 pandemic and expressed optimism about future prospects.

“While exceeding $15 million in exports is a significant achievement, we believe this figure does not fully reflect Isfahan’s true potential. Through strategic planning, we aim to further boost this number in 2024,” he added.

Karamzadeh made the remarks during the 37th National Handicrafts Exhibition, highlighting Isfahan’s remarkable progress in the sector.

“We are honored to present over 20 handicraft categories at this exhibition, showcasing the work of skilled artisans, many of whom hold national and global certifications,” he said.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Karamzadeh emphasized the exhibition’s role in enhancing the quality and quantity of handicrafts from Isfahan, a province renowned for its rich artistic heritage.

Isfahan continues to strengthen its position as a leading exporter of handcrafted goods, contributing to Iran’s cultural and economic growth, the official said.

A city of historical significance

The ancient city of Isfahan, situated at the crossroads of Iran’s north-south and east-west trade routes, reached its zenith between the 9th and 18th centuries. During the Safavid era, it became Iran’s capital under Shah Abbas the Great. Renowned for its Persian-Islamic architecture, the city is home to historical landmarks such as Naqsh-e Jahan Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Moreover, the ancient city was once a crossroads of international trade and diplomacy in Iran and now it is one of Iran’s top tourist destinations for good reasons. It is filled with many architectural wonders, such as unmatched Islamic buildings, bazaars, museums, Persian gardens, and tree-lined boulevards. It’s a city for walking, getting lost in its mazing bazaars, dozing in beautiful gardens, and meeting people.

The Persian proverb “Isfahan nesf-e-jahan ast” (Isfahan is half the world) reflects the city’s cultural and historical prominence.

AM