Arjestan Village

Arjestan village lies in Sarein County, in the Central District and Sabalan Rural District of Ardabil Province. It is located about 21 kilometres west of Ardabil and 8 kilometres from Irdemusa, and is known for its mineral springs. Arjestan was formerly the centre of a rural district of the same name, which was formed in 1388 (Solar Hijri) from the merger of several villages, farmsteads and settlements. Besides its natural springs, the village has an old cemetery, which, together with the rural atmosphere and natural scenery, counts among its sights. According to the 1385 (Solar Hijri) census, Arjestan had a population of 293, living in 62 households.

The village's most important natural attraction is the "Arjestan Suyu" mineral spring, whose cold, carbonated water bubbles up from the ground. The water is odourless and has an astringent taste, and its temperature is usually reported to be between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. It contains carbon dioxide gas and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and potassium, and its source is described as semi-deep. The spring's discharge is estimated at about 0.8 litres per second. In the past, Arjestan mineral water was bottled and sold by a factory called Mesko, but production has stopped. At present, a covered concrete basin has been built over the main spring; once it fills, the water is channelled out through a pipe. There are other springs in the centre of the village and around it. Some locals believe that the water of this spring can help flush out small kidney stones, but this local belief should not be taken as a substitute for medical evidence. In addition, because earlier tests reportedly found microbial contamination and a warning sign has been put up, you should avoid drinking the water until its safety is confirmed. The old cemetery of Arjestan is another sight in the village and may interest those curious about the history of the region's settlements.

To visit Arjestan, you can take the Ardabil–Sarein road and, once you reach the area of the village, continue along the local access road. The village's proximity to Sarein makes it easy to include in a trip to that town, along with visits to other nearby villages. Spring and summer, when the weather is milder, are good times to explore the village's natural surroundings and see the springs. During your trip you can stroll along village paths, photograph the natural scenery, and get to know the local atmosphere while respecting the privacy of the residents. Visits to the old cemetery should also be made quietly and respectfully. Travellers are also advised not to leave litter in nature, and until the water's safety is officially announced, to take the warnings against drinking it seriously.