Urmia

Urmia is a city in northwestern Iran, the capital of West Azerbaijan Province, located on the southern shore of Lake Urmia. It serves as the region’s administrative, economic and cultural center, with a population in the several hundred thousand and a diverse mix of ethnic and religious communities.

Historically, Urmia lies along the routes of ancient trade networks and has long hosted Armenian, Assyrian, Kurdish, and Azeri communities alongside Persians. The city’s built environment includes mosques, churches and a historic bazaar that reflect its multicultural heritage. It is home to several higher education institutions, including Urmia University and Urmia University of Medical Sciences.

Economy and infrastructure: The surrounding Urmia Plain supports agriculture, growing grains, fruits and vegetables. Retail, services and public administration form major sectors in the city. Transportation links include road connections to other major Iranian cities and an airport that handles domestic flights; ongoing projects aim to enhance rail connectivity to the region.

Lake Urmia and environmental issues: The city is adjacent to Lake Urmia, a once expansive saltwater lake that has shrunk dramatically due to drought and water management practices. The lake’s retreat has affected local climate, fisheries, tourism and agriculture, prompting government and international cooperation on restoration and water-management measures.

In recent decades, Urmia has experienced growth in education and services while maintaining its historical role as a regional hub. Its institutions and historical sites attract visitors and researchers studying the intersection of culture, history and environment in northwestern Iran.