Barbar Castle

Barbar Castle is a historic site in Ardabil Province. It lies in Meshgin Shahr County, in the Meshgin-e Sharqi (Lahrud) District and Qarah Su Rural District, near the village of Onar, also known as Anar. The remains of the castle stand about 450 metres southeast of Onar village. It is reported to be about 22 kilometres from Meshgin Shahr and about 80 kilometres from Ardabil. The castle dates back to the 2nd and 3rd centuries AH (Hijri), and it was added to Iran's National Heritage List on 12 Dey 1386 (Solar Hijri) under registration number 20423. Its position on the heights around the village, overlooking the natural features of the area, is one of the most distinctive aspects of this historic site.

Barbar Castle covers about four hectares, and its architecture combines natural rock formations with man-made structures. To the east the castle overlooks Mount Keshneh-Var, to the north Mount Al-Lur, and to the west the Onar Chay River. This position made it possible to keep watch over parts of the surrounding area. The surviving remains show that the complex once served a defensive purpose and was used for guarding and for storing provisions and military equipment. Seen from the north, the overall shape of the castle resembles a human head, a form that, together with the natural irregularities of the terrain, gives it a distinctive look. In the western part of the castle there are small chambers or rock hollows, which some descriptions mention as guard posts. Although parts of the complex have gradually eroded and been damaged, the remains still have historical and architectural value, and a visit offers a chance to learn about the old defensive structures of the Meshgin Shahr region.

To visit Barbar Castle, travel to Meshgin Shahr County and the village of Onar, then follow the local route that leads to the castle site. Because the castle stands in a mountainous, uneven area, wear suitable walking shoes and take care when moving around the rocks. Spring and summer are usually the better seasons for outdoor excursions and for visiting this historic site, but you should check the weather and the condition of the route before setting out. During your visit, do not move stones, damage the remains or write on historic surfaces, and do not leave any litter at the site.