Nahawand

Nahawand, also transliterated as Nahavand, is a city in western Iran. It is the capital of Nahavand County in Hamadan Province and sits on the southern edge of the Zagros mountain range, roughly 70 kilometers southwest of the provincial capital Hamadan. The city functions as an administrative and regional center for the surrounding area.

The area around Nahawand has long-standing historical significance. It lies near routes that connected ancient Persia with Mesopotamia, and is best known in modern history for the Battle of Nahavand in 642 CE, fought between the Rashidun Caliphate and the Sassanian Empire. The battle is considered a turning point in the Islamic conquest of Persia and helped shape the region’s subsequent historical development.

Economy and demographics: Nahawand’s economy is largely based on agriculture, with surrounding plains supporting fruits, grains, nuts, and other crops. The city serves as an administrative and service hub for the district, hosting markets and public services for residents of the county. The population is predominantly Persian-speaking, with rural communities in the region containing Luri or Kurdish influences.

Climate and culture: The area experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters, and irrigation supports agricultural activity in the surrounding areas. Cultural life reflects broader central Iranian traditions, including regional cuisine, music, and crafts common to Hamadan Province. Nahavand continues to function as a local center for commerce, education, and administration within the county.