TEHRAN - Construction work has commenced in the ancient town of Germi to establish a special anthropological museum dedicated to the rituals, arts, and the everyday life of tribespeople native to Ardabil province.

“The construction operation of the first nomadic museum of Ardabil province has begun in Germi,” CHTN quoted the provincial tourism chief as saying on Friday.

“This museum would showcase relics and evidence of nomadic life in Ardabil province,” Nader Fallahi noted.

“We have relics which are mostly donated by or on loan from various tribespeople.”

The culturally-rich Germi and its surrounding lands have long been destinations for avid archaeology buffs and eco-travelers.

Heaven for nomadic people, Ardabil is home to some nomadic tent hotels, which are reportedly the first of their kind in the country.  

The Islamic Republic seeks to boost ethnic tourism or tribe tourism in which holidaymakers may even stay with a nomadic family or enjoy an independent stay.

Many tourists from all over the world tend to observe the lifestyle of these hardworking people and spend a few days watching activities such as milking, yogurt making, buttering, oiling, woolen, carpeting, and much more.

The varied natural setting of the country never disappoints visitors when it comes to tribal tourism as the culturally diverse country is home to many regional people including ones with Turk and Arab elements in addition to the Kurds, Baloch, Bakhtyari, Lurs, and other smaller minorities such as Armenians, Assyrians, Jews, and others.

Language, music, indigenous cuisine, clothing, songs, anecdotes, crafts, live performances, and local rituals such as celebrations and wedding ceremonies have always spurred many to experience life among the tribes.

Sprawling on a high, windswept plateau, Ardabil is well-known for having lush natural beauties, hospitable people, and its silk and carpet trade tradition. It is also home to the UNESCO-registered Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble.

The province is very cold in winter and mild in summer, attracting thousands every year. The capital city of Ardabil is usually recorded as one of the coldest cities in the country in winter.

AFM