TEHRAN - On Sunday, Iran’s first three-level suspension bridge was inaugurated in the picturesque Vargehsaran tourist area of Sareyn, Ardabil, in a ceremony attended by Ezzatollah Zarghami, the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts. 

The newly opened bridge, stretching 160 meters in length, two meters in width, and soaring 100 meters above the ground, is the first of its kind with a unique composite design set against the scenic backdrop of Mount Sabalan.

Zarghami underlined the significance of the bridge, stating, “I recommend that every Iranian visit this bridge at least once and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.”
He lauded the bridge as a pivotal development in Ardabil's tourism sector, noting its exceptional combination of length, height, and mountainous setting. “This bridge will create a new tourism opportunity for Ardabil, similar to the Ardabil 2023 event, whose benefits continue to resonate,” he added. The minister referred to Ardabil’s designation as the tourism capital of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in 2023.

He noted the construction of the bridge was a significant investment, with 2,500 billion rials (some $4 million) from the private sector, and an additional 2,500 billion rials planned for further development of the surrounding environment and accommodation facilities. 
Zarghami mentioned that the bridge's benefits would gradually transform the nearby villages into tourist-friendly areas.
Given that the bridge was constructed on endowment land managed by the Endowment and Charity Affairs Organization, Zarghami also praised the organization's role in aligning the intentions of the land's original benefactors with the modern needs of society. He emphasized that one of today's societal needs is to bring joy to the people, and such tourism projects are essential in achieving this goal.
The inauguration ceremony was also attended by Ardabil Governor Seyyed Hamed Ameli, who spoke of the province’s rich heritage, including its pride in figures like Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardabili. He stressed the importance of continuing efforts to transform Ardabil's natural, cultural, and historical assets into wealth that benefits the local population, highlighting the ongoing development of accommodation and recreational facilities in the region.

Sareyn, often referred to as the “City of Heavenly Springs,” is located 25 kilometers from Ardabil, along the Ardabil-Sarab road. It is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, particularly during the spring and summer months.

AM