Foorg Castle

Foorg Castle, sometimes also known as "Foorg Citadel" or "Mirza Rafi Khan Castle", is located in the village of Foorg in Darmian County, South Khorasan Province. The castle lies about five kilometres from the town of Darmian and about 110 kilometres west of the city of Birjand. It was built on top of a rugged mountain and, thanks to its strategic position, played an important role in defending the region. The mountainous, hard-to-reach terrain around it drew the Ismaili sect to the area, where they built high, strongly fortified castles to protect themselves.

Foorg Castle has a remarkable history and is considered part of the region's network of military and governmental fortresses. According to written sources, its initial construction began in the time of Nader Shah Afshar and was completed by Mirza Baqa Khan and then Mirza Rafi Khan. The castle stands on a rocky outcrop, its common building materials are mud brick, stone and fired brick, and it has structures such as towers, lookout walls and ramparts, which reflect its military importance in the past.

To visit Foorg Castle, first go to the town of Asadiyeh (the centre of Darmian County), then drive about 10 to 11 kilometres toward the village of Foorg until you reach the foot of the hill on which the castle stands. The best time to visit is spring or early autumn, when the weather is milder and the walk is easier. During your trip and visit, it is important to respect the cultural heritage: avoid damaging the remains, do not leave litter, wear suitable footwear and use safe paths so that this valuable monument is preserved for future generations.