History of Kish Island

Kish has a long history of about 3,000 years, being called under various names such as Kamtina, Arakia, Arakata, and Ghiss in the course of time. In 325 BC, Alexander the Great commissioned Niarkus to set off an expedition voyage into the Sea of Oman and the Persian Gulf. Niarkus's writings indicate that he visited Araracta in the 4th century BC.

His descriptions of Araracta precisely match with the characteristics of Kish.

KARIZ - E- KISH

Once again, greatness, ability, creative power, intention and diligence have appeared in revival of one of the Iranian Traditions. Those who were living on Kish Island tens of centuries ago, with their Iranian inherent intelligence in building aqueducts-under ground canal-mostly known as Qanat or Kariz-stroked the coralline layers of Kish Island in search of potable water, and were rewarded with "fresh water" or "sweet water" as the people say here. for centuries afterwards, the sweet water of Kish Island not only relieved the thirst of the local residents, but by exporting it to neighboring state, the local residents could swapping it with sugar or cash.

Nowadays, the Kariz Kish has changed into a world unique phenomenon. The ancient canal were expanded, and an bellow the surface of the Kish Island, with museum, art galleries, handicraft workshops, traditional and modern tea/coffee shops. The present length of the under ground complex is about 3000 meters, and the visitors will have the choice either to walk inside it or to sail in power/pedals boats and see its beauties on board.

Picture of Kish Kariz

The Ancient Town of Harireh

For those who are interested in the history of Iran in general, and in the history of Iranian islands in the Persian Gulf in particular, a visit to the ancient town of Harireh is a must. Harireh is most probably the town that the renowned Iranian poet, Sa'adi, has referred to in his book 'The Rose Garden'. There are references in the works of Iranian and Arab historians to the location of the town on the island. These say that the town was situated in the middle of the northern part, precisely where the ruins are standing today.
A tour of Harireh can give the visitor a chance at imagining the ancient times of Iran. Then a short stroll over to Derakht-e-Sabz (Green Tree) Park will provide a chance at relaxation in the tranquil atmosphere.

picture of Harireh

Traditional Water Reservoirs

Drinking water in Kish is somehow limited. That is why, since ancient times, the indigenous people resorted to different methods of supplying their drinking water. The remnants of some of them attest to this fact.
As in many other areas of the country where water is scarce, the past inhabitants of Kish used a special type of water reservoir to collect rainwater. These reservoirs were dug at the end of natural basins deep in the ground.
With the innovation of desalination technology traditional water reservoirs became obsolete. But, what remains of them is a sight to visit for tourists. The architecture of these structures is unique and very interesting.
To collect surface waters, two such reservoirs were built in the Portuguese Valley in 1992. The water collected is being used to irrigate the parks and green areas.
An ancient water reservoir is Payab. It has been restored and is now one of the attractions of the island. Payab is over 2,000 years old. Once it was renovated, the floor was carpeted with corals. A teahouse has also been provided to serve refreshments to visitors. In Persian, Payab means bottom of the sea.