Tower of silence Zoroastrianism | Secrets of Zoroastrian Sky Burial in Iran | Iran Travel vlog

The Tower of Silence, also known as Dakhma in Persian, holds significant cultural and historical importance for the Zoroastrian community in Iran. According to Zoroastrian beliefs, corpses were deemed impure and unsuitable for burial in the Earth or cremation by fire. Hence, the Zoroastrians developed a distinctive burial method, known as the Tower of Silence, associated with the Parsi cremation ritual known as sky burial.

In the Tower of Silence, bodies are placed in designated compartments based on age and gender, where the sun's heat facilitates rapid decomposition. Vultures, attracted to the site, play a vital role in consuming the remains. Traditionally, men's corpses were placed in the Outer Circle, women's in the middle, and children's in the innermost ring. After decomposition, bones are placed in a central pit.

During the peak of Zoroastrianism, Towers of Silence were constructed away from inhabited areas, with staff residing onsite and refraining from entering villages. The Tower complex housed staff quarters and temporary accommodations for the deceased's family. Rituals were performed in some rooms before carrying the dead to the tower's top.

Although once functional, the practice of sky burial was banned in Iran in the late 1960s, rendering Towers of Silence obsolete for their intended purpose. Today, visitors can explore the Towers, gaining insight into Zoroastrian burial customs and experiencing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

This glimpse into Iran's cultural heritage underscores its significance as a destination for cultural exploration. Subscribe for more enriching content and embark on a journey to discover the wonders of Iran.

[costiniucmircea]

Very nice place and beautiful scenery.