Imagine yourself standing atop the "Hasht Sar" mountain, hovering at an elevation that ranges from 1,500 to almost 3,000 meters. Natural walls and terrifyingly deep precipices on three sides have rendered this castle so impregnable that it seems Nature herself was its chief defensive engineer.
A Narrative of History and Secrecy
The history of Pushtab Castle dates back to the mysterious eras of the Ashkanian (Parthian) and Sasanian empires, but its true significance emerged when the Arasbaran region became a center of resistance. Local lore holds that this fortress was a vital link in the command network of Babak Khorramdin. From this vantage point, coded messages—using fire and smoke—were exchanged with other strategic fortresses like Babak Castle and Qahqaheh. In essence, Pushtab was the communications and observation hub of a major historical movement.
The Path to Conquest and Extraordinary Architecture
Reaching the castle is an adventure in itself. Unlike modern structures, this stronghold offers only one point of entry: a narrow passage accompanied by over 220 hand-carved stone steps. These stairs are the legacy of builders who prioritized security over convenience.
As you ascend and pass through the stairs, you will find the remains of towers, chambers, and, most importantly, water reservoirs meticulously carved into the heart of the rocks to collect rainwater and melted snow for periods of siege. Witnessing these defensive and logistical structures offers a profound appreciation for the engineering genius of our ancestors.
If you are a seeker of travel and thrills, and want to walk in the footsteps of historical heroes, Pushtab Castle awaits to share its tale of impregnability with you. This castle is registered on Iran's National Heritage List and is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding historical and natural attractions of East Azerbaijan.