Get Acquainted with 10 Ancient Iranian Zurkhanes

Witness the Prowess of Pahlavans: 10 Ancient Zurkhanes in Iran

Sometimes, it's essential to look back and revisit history—a time when the learning of martial arts had its unique methods, and battles were fought hand in hand. It was an era when warriors honed their skills in army barracks and purchases, where they trained for combat and cultivated values of chivalry and ethics. Zurkhaneh, meaning "house of strength," was used for these places then.

What is a Zurkhaneh and why is it significant in Iranian culture?

A Zurkhaneh, translating to ‘House of Strength,’ is a traditional gymnasium where Iranian men practice the ancient sport of Varzesh-e Bastani, a ritualistic and physical discipline combining martial arts, calisthenics, strength training, and music. Historically, these places have been centers for physical training and teaching ethics and philosophy, fostering a sense of community and chivalry among participants.

Can tourists visit Zurkhanes in Iran, and what should they expect?

Yes, tourists are welcome to visit Zurkhanes. Visitors can expect to see a display of physical prowess combined with rhythmic music as athletes perform exercises that include weightlifting, swinging heavy wooden clubs, and performing intricate, dance-like movements in a pit in the center of the Zurkhaneh. It’s a vibrant spectacle of strength and agility performed to the beat of live traditional music.

What are some of the oldest Zurkhanes in Iran and where are they located?

Some of the oldest and most renowned Zurkhanes include Zurkhaneh Pahlavanpour in Tehran, Ali Gholi Agha Zurkhaneh in Isfahan, and Zurkhaneh Pahlavan Ali Mirza in Hamadan. Each holds historical significance and is located in cities with a rich cultural heritage.

What etiquette should visitors follow when visiting a Zurkhaneh?

Visitors should dress modestly, remain quiet, and avoid interrupting the training sessions. Photography may not be allowed during the practice sessions or require prior permission. It’s respectful to follow the guidance of the locals or any instructions given by the Zurkhaneh staff.

How does one participate in a Zurkhaneh workout?

Participation usually requires prior arrangement and basic training, as the exercises can be quite demanding. Interested visitors might be able to arrange for introductory sessions through local travel agencies or directly with the Zurkhaneh if they express interest and show respect for the traditions.

What is the best time to visit a Zurkhaneh?

The best time to visit is during early mornings or late afternoons when the main practice sessions typically occur. It’s advisable to check with the specific Zurkhaneh for their schedule to ensure you can witness a live session.

Frequently Asked Questions: Exploring Ancient Iranian Zurkhanes

Zurkhaneh sport, also known as ancient sport or pahlavi, refers to a collection of physical exercises, both with and without equipment, along with associated customs and traditions that have been prevalent in Iran’s history and culture for centuries. Physical activity and the performance of Pahlavi movements were integral to the daily lives of ancient Iranians, and society held a special reverence for athletes who exhibited physical prowess and inner courage. Old sports were closely associated with masculinity and etiquette, underpinned by various principles. For instance, all movements, performed with permission from religious leaders and recognized masters, are conducted with the utmost humility and selflessness.

The motto of ancient sports is cultivating both the body and spirit. Shia Muslims believe that the Zurkhaneh is the second mosque for Shia Muslims. However, these customs and traditions have gradually faded in modern times, and religious elements are less prominent in this sport. One of the core principles of Zurkhaneh is for athletes to practice virtues such as humility, selflessness, modesty, chivalry, hospitality, cleanliness, and helping people experiencing poverty and people in need, among other qualities, which are essential to the realm of pahlavi. On this basis, many zurkhanehs across Iran have persisted for centuries, bearing witness to the antiquity and enduring value of the ancient sports among the Iranian people. In the following section, we will introduce you to some of the oldest zurkhanehs in different cities of Iran.

Zurkhaneh Pahlavanpour, Tehran

According to the inscriptions on the old Zurkhaneh Pahlavanpour gate, Pahlavanpour Cultural and Sports Club (Bazarjeh) is one of the oldest Zurkhanehs in old Tehran, established by Hamzeh Ali Pahlavanpour in 1925 CE. After Hamzeh Ali Pahlavanpour, ownership of this Zurkhaneh was transferred to Asghar Bazarjeh, a renowned wrestler of old Tehran. In the late Qajar and early Pahlavi periods, Hamzeh Ali Pahlavanpour, famously known as the Skilled Hamzeh, purchased this Zurkhaneh from Asghar Bazarjeh, who had relocated the Zurkhaneh due to financial difficulties. Hamzeh Ali Pahlavanpour also owned several bakeries across the city, several shops adjacent to the Zurkhaneh, and the “Kal-Abbas Ali” water reservoir. Since he was a benevolent individual who used all the income from these businesses to support athletes and those in need, he and a few other wrestlers in Tehran were named “Dar Khaneh Bazha” (House of Generous People). Years later, when the Zurkhaneh suffered a fire, Pahlavanpour sold his house and some of his shops to fund its restoration.

After Pahlavanpour’s passing, his heirs sold the Zurkhaneh, and the purchaser removed the old Zurkhaneh’s paintings and inscriptions, leaving the building abandoned for years. However, in line with the revival of Zurkhaneh sports, the Tehran Municipality in 2009 CE reconstructed and reopened the Pahlavanpour Zurkhaneh. Over nearly a century of its existence, Zurkhaneh Pahlavanpour has seen many wrestlers in its pit (Zurkhaneh), and the names of “Haj Mustafa Tousi,” “Kal-Esmail,” “Haj Ali Tektek,” and “Haj Baqer Mahdieh” can still be found on the doors and walls of the Zurkhaneh Museum.

Zurkhaneh Pahlavan Ali Mirza, Hamadan

Zurkhaneh Pahlavan Ali Mirza is one of the ancient Zurkhanehs in Hamadan. Pahlavan Ali Mirza Hamadani, the owner of a wrestling armlet and a sportsman, had a deep passion for Zurkhaneh and old sports, including Pahlevani wrestling and Varzesh-e Bastani. He was fondly called “Pahlavan Shater Hamzeh” or “Clever Hamzeh” and was recognized as one of the heroes of the Kolanche and Baneh Bazar Zurkhanehs.

Pahlavan Ali, given the title “Mirza” (due to his literacy), was born in Hamadan in 1826 CE. He became famous for defeating renowned wrestlers during his lifetime, earning the honor of having the Zurkhaneh bell rung when he entered. This tradition continued in Zurkhanehs across Iran, signifying respect and a special ceremony reserved for him. This distinguished athlete became Iran’s Pahlavan when he was around sixty years old, wrestled until eighty, and continued practicing ancient sports until he was ninety-five, living for over a century.

Poulad Zurkhaneh; Shiraz

In Fars province, ancient sports and Zurkhaneh hold a special place. One of the old Zurkhanehs in Shiraz is called the “Poulad” Zurkhaneh. It was built in the late Qajar era as a water reservoir next to the Vakil Mosque and Vakil Bazaar. After about 130 years, it was converted into a Zurkhaneh and has been used as such for approximately 160 years. This Zurkhaneh is recognized as one of the five active ancient Zurkhanehs in Iran. Unfortunately, rumors occasionally circulate about the silent bell of this Zurkhaneh, founded by Pahlavan Mohammad Ali Kalahi. Many wrestlers, such as Khalil Aghab, Mohammad Kazem Dalavari, Molla Ali Saif, and Mohammad Ali Kalahi, have trained in this 160-year-old Zurkhaneh, with the bell’s ringing and the warm tones of Morshed Mahmoud Khodaparast.

Bijan Zurkhaneh; Kermanshah

Bijan Zurkhaneh is one of the oldest Zurkhanehs in Kermanshah, founded in 1941 CE by the late Noorali Jahani. Bijan Zurkhaneh is located in one of Kermanshah’s old neighborhoods and has been a gathering place for sports enthusiasts for a long time. This Zurkhaneh is still active, and ancient sports training occurs every day after the Maghrib and Isha prayers. On Fridays, veterans practice old sports in the morning hours. Additionally, this Zurkhaneh hosts an annual ceremony commemorating the birthday of Imam Ali (AS).

Niroo Shadhi Zurkhaneh; Tehran

Niroo Shadhi Zurkhaneh is located in the Moulavi neighborhood and Saadat Bazaar in Tehran. Established in 1926 CE, Niroo Shadhi Zurkhaneh is one of the oldest in the heart of old Tehran. This Zurkhaneh, the oldest in Tehran, has been preserved from generation to generation, with ancient sports traditions and customs still being followed there, just like in the past.

Shir Zurkhaneh; Tehran

Shir Zurkhaneh is one of the ancient Zurkhanehs in Tehran, near Piroozi Street. Established in 1925 CE, this Zurkhaneh is one of the oldest Pahlavani sports centers in the capital. After centuries of serving as a Zurkhaneh, Shir Zurkhaneh, a hundred years old, was renovated and restored by the Tehran Municipality. Like many other Zurkhanehs in Tehran, it is now used by enthusiasts.

Ali Gholi Agha Zurkhaneh; Isfahan

This Zurkhaneh is one of the oldest in Isfahan, in the Ali Gholi Agha neighborhood. Due to its long history and the athletes and Pahlavans it has produced, it is known as the capital of Pahlavani sports. Ali Gholi Agha Zurkhaneh often hosts Pahlavani sports competitions and Zurkhaneh rituals in Isfahan.

Saheb al-Zaman Zurkhaneh; Yazd

Saheb al-Zaman Zurkhaneh in Yazd is another ancient Zurkhaneh that has nurtured many Pahlavans and champions. The Zurkhaneh displays old sports from 4 to 8 PM daily and annually attracts numerous tourists.

Hojabr Zurkhaneh; Tehran

Hojabr Zurkhaneh is one of the oldest Zurkhanehs in Tehran, which has undergone significant renovations over time by the Tehran Municipality. In this Zurkhaneh, wrestling is also practiced in addition to Zurkhaneh sports. Hojabr Zurkhaneh constitutes a substantial part of the contemporary culture of Tehran. In the past, athletes from various sports practiced here, but now it has become a place for tourists to visit, attracting many foreign and domestic tourists every year.

Salamat Zurkhaneh; Tehran

Salamat Zurkhaneh is one of the ancient sports venues located in the southern part of District 12 in Tehran. After restoration and maintenance by the Tehran Municipality, Salamat Zurkhaneh is now used by enthusiasts of Pahlavani sports.