population: 1.2 million

extension: 17,011 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Ardabil and interested in visiting museums, one place to consider is the Ardabil Anthropology Museum. It features exhibits on the history and culture of the region, including traditional clothing, household objects, and musical instruments. Other nearby museum options include the Sheik Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble, which has a collection of historical artifacts and manuscripts, and the Ardabil Carpet Museum, which displays beautiful hand-woven carpets from the area.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Ardabil, according to local people, include:

1. Ash-e Doogh: a soup made with yogurt, herbs, and vegetables.

2. Kebab-e Sheeshlik: skewered pieces of lamb or beef, grilled over charcoal.

3. Gheymeh Nesar: a stew made with meat, yellow split peas, and saffron.

4. Koofteh Tabrizi: a meatball dish made with minced meat, chickpeas, and spices.

5. Baghali Ghatogh: a vegetarian dish made with lima beans, dill, and eggs.

6. Mirza Ghasemi: a dish made with roasted eggplant, garlic, tomatoes, and eggs.

7. Fesenjan: a stew made with ground walnuts, pomegranate paste, and chicken or duck.

8. Aash-e Reshteh: a thick soup made with noodles, beans, vegetables, and herbs.

These dishes are all delicious and reflect the rich flavors of Persian cuisine that can be found in Ardabil and throughout Iran.

Activities

Ardabil has a rich cultural heritage and several outdoor attractions that both visitors and locals enjoy. Here are some suggestions for fun activities that local people like to do in Ardabil:

1. Visit the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant historical landmark in Ardabil.
2. Explore the Sabalan Mountains, which offer hiking trails, scenic landscapes, and mineral hot springs.
3. Enjoy traditional Iranian cuisine at local restaurants, such as Ash-e-Doogh (yogurt soup), Dizi (lamb stew), and Ghormeh Sabzi (herb stew).
4. Attend a performance of traditional music or dance at the Ardabil Cultural Center or other venues.
5. Visit the bazaars in Ardabil, such as the Jomeh Bazaar or the Sa'di Bazaar, and find unique souvenirs like handmade crafts and local spices.