TEHRAN—Kordestan seeks to improve tourism facilities for its religious sites that are scattered across Sanandaj, the provincial capital.

“Appropriate religious capacities along with hundreds of natural and historical attractions have made Kordestan province one of the most important tourist hubs of the country… and it is the focus of a countless number of tourists,” CHTN quoted Yaqoub Goilian, the provincial tourism chief, as saying on Thursday.

“With the implementation of a development plan on religious tourism, we can cater to job employment and economic prosperity in the province,” the official said.

Goilian made the remarks during his visit to the mausoleum of Khidr-e Zendeh (“Alive Khidr”), which is located at the foot of Abider Mountain in Sanandaj.

“It is hoped that by strengthening religious tourism, we can take great steps for the economic development of the province.”

Religious tourism, one of the oldest forms of travel, is strongly motivated by spiritual reasons. Historical places of worship around the world are on many travelers' wish lists.

Iran is home to hundreds of shrines, imamzadehs, mausoleums, churches, and fire temples, among other religious destinations dedicated to different faiths.

AM