Maragheh Mehr Temple

One of the most mysterious temples in Iran and the point of disagreement between historians and archaeologists is Mehr temple of Maragheh. This temple is located next to Varjavi (the largest village in East Azerbaijan province) in the south of Maragheh. Let's get to know the strange and story-filled temple in northwestern of Iran.

Why Mehr Temple is the Point of Dispute?

According to reports and sources, historians believe this temple belonged to the Parthian period and was a place for worshiping Mitra; it became a religious place of worship for Muslims in the Islamic period. In contrast, archaeologists, based on their research, have come to the conclusion that Mehr Temple belongs to the Iron Age and was carved with the first types of stone tools.

The History of the Temple

Iranians certainly worshiped Mitra in this temple during the Parthian period. But in the Islamic period, there are evidences of the presence of some Buddhist tribes there; it became a place of worship for Muslims after the attack of Ilkhanate. In some of the walls, we can see inscriptions in Arabic related to the Islamic period. In general, due to the special shape and structure of the temple, this place of worship has become a place for the meetings of special sects and mystical traditions. Even today, Muharram days of mourning are held there.

Unfortunately, the future of the temple is uncertain; due to some construction measures around it, the movement of the water level and its penetration into the temple wall, this ancient place has been exposed to destruction.

Iron Age means prehistory. This is enough for Mehr temple of Maragheh to be special !!!

Tags: East Azarbaijan Province, Temples in Iran, Iran Historical Attractions, East Azarbaijan Attractions, Maragheh Mehr temple