Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is a combination of thirteen handmade monuments like bridges, mills, dams, waterfalls, channels, and massive tunnels that were built during Achaemenid and Sasanid periods. These constructions which are located near each other in the outskirts of Shoushtar are registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the 33rd summit of the UN, in 2009.

About Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

As mentioned before, Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System has different parts:

• • Band-e Mizan Dam
  • Kolah Farangi Tower
  • Gargar Canal
  • Polband-e Gargar Bridge-Dam
  • Watermills & Waterfalls area
  • Polband-e Khoda-Afarin Bridge-Dam
  • Salasel Castle
  • Darium Canal
  • Polband-e Shadravan Bridge-Dam
  • Band-e Khak Dam
  • Polband-e Lashkar Bridge-Dam
  • Band-e Sharabdar Dam

How Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System Works

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is one of the earliest and most unique examples of irrigation systems. This system was so advanced in its time that many books had mentioned it repetitively. This complex works this way: first, GarGar Dam blocks the water flow of the river and the water rises up behind the dam. There are three tunnels that drive the water into the main complex and divide them into several channels which make the mills turning. After this, the water pours like a waterfall inside a pool. This way, the sufficient amount of water for the city of Shoushtar and the villages around it had always been provided.

The combination of these elements (the pool, artificial waterfalls, dams, and watermills), gives the complex a very picturesque view. Some of the archeological studies indicate that this complex was probably built by Ardeshir Babakan, the king of the Sasanian Empire. But some of the archeologists suggested that this complex might be even older than that. Some of the excavations showed evidence from the prehistoric period.

Location of Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is located near the other registered UNESCO Site in Khuzestan, Chogha Zanbil (about 45 kilometers). So, hit two birds with one stone!

On the eastern side of Shoushtar, find 15 Khordad Sq. as your landmark. Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System can be found next to this square. Tomb of Daniel, the ancient city of Susa, Shevi Waterfall, Karun River, and Abadan are other interesting cities and attractions that you can visit while you are in Khuzestan.

Where to Eat near Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

You can enjoy a Persian dish at Abshar Restaurant, Bernard Restaurant, or Pizza chill which are all in the vicinity of the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System.

Where to Stay near Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Ahvaz Naderi Hotel, Ahvaz Persia Hotel, Ahvaz Oxin Hotel, and Ahvaz Hediye Hotel Apartment are some of the three-star hotels in Ahvaz. If you prefer staying in a luxury hotel, you can try Pars Ahvaz Hotel. Also, Iranica Hotel Apartement, Ahvaz Aramesh Guest House, and Ahvaz Iran Hotel are your choices for budget stays.