From the Safavid "Dar al-Marz" to a UNESCO "Creative City of Gastronomy"
RASHT, January 2026 – Today marks a significant occasion to revisit the identity of a city synonymous with "Silver Rains" and "Bright Nights." But why is January 2nd (12th of Dey) celebrated as the Day of Rasht?
Historical Roots: From Qazvin to Rasht
According to authoritative historical documents and the extensive research of prominent scholars such as Robert Vahanian, approximately 468 years ago on this very day (January 2, 1558 / 12 Dey 936 SH), Sultan Mahmoud, the official representative of Shah Tahmasp I of the Safavid dynasty, arrived in Rasht amidst a grand reception by local dignitaries. This date represents a pivotal turning point in the history of the Gilan province; it was the moment Rasht was officially designated as the political, economic, and cultural capital of the region, succeeding the ancient center of Fuman.
Rasht: The Gateway to Civilization and the "City of Firsts"
Strategically located along the Silk Road and serving as a vital link to Europe via the Caspian Sea, Rasht has historically functioned as Iran’s "Gateway to Modernity." The city has been a pioneer in numerous cultural and social milestones:
Iran’s First National Library: Established in 1927 (1306 SH).
The First Classical Theater: Featuring the debut of female performers on the Iranian stage.
The First 24-Hour Pharmacy: The historic Karoon Pharmacy.
The First Sanatorium: Iran’s first nursing home and center for the disabled.
Cultural Identity: UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy
In 2015, Rasht achieved global recognition by joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) as a City of Gastronomy. Boasting a culinary repertoire of over 250 unique recipes, Rasht is not merely a culinary hub but a living museum of the symbiotic relationship between "Nature" and "Culture." The use of indigenous ingredients and traditional "Gamaj" (clay pots) is recognized as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage.
2026 Commemorative Events (January 2026 / Dey 1404)
To honor this legacy, the Municipality of Rasht and various cultural organizations have curated a series of professional events:
"Rasht Through Time" Exhibition: A visual showcase of rare historical photographs and archives held at the historic Municipality Square (Sa'at Square).
Local Gastronomy Festival: Showcasing authentic Gilani cuisine with a focus on sustainable food tourism.
Academic Symposia: In-depth seminars exploring Rasht's influential role in the Constitutional Revolution and the Jungle Movement (Nehzat-e Jangal).
World Music Concerts: Featuring folk performances to celebrate the cultural ties between Rasht and Dushanbe, Tajikistan (the 2026 Cultural Capital of Asia), highlighting the regional synergy within the ECO zone.
Final Word
The Day of Rasht transcends the geography of Gilan; it is a celebration for all who value culture, tolerance, and urban civility. With its sleepless Grand Bazaar, historic neighborhoods like Pirsara, and its signature misty rains, Rasht remains the beating heart of North Iran’s cultural heritage.
"Rasht, the City of Bright Nights. Happy January 2nd to all."