The Tower of Silence in Yazd, Iran, is a fascinating historical site that gives us valuable insights into ancient Zoroastrian burial practices. Also known as “Dakhma,” this circular structure sits atop a hill, once used by Zoroastrians to lay out bodies for a natural form of decomposition, preserving the purity of earth and fire according to their beliefs.
Surrounded by Yazd’s arid landscape, the Tower of Silence offers visitors insight into the cultural and spiritual traditions of Zoroastrianism, which once flourished in Iran. Today, it is considered a monument to history and ancient customs, inviting travelers to learn about this fascinating part of Iran.
Tower of Silence, a Mysterious Burial Site
The Tower of Silence is deeply tied to the ancient Zoroastrian religion, which originated in Persia thousands of years ago. Zoroastrians believe that earth and fire are sacred elements that should not be polluted by human remains. To honor this belief, they developed the “Dakhma” ritual, where deceased bodies were placed atop circular stone structures, known as Towers of Silence, allowing them to decompose naturally. Now, these towers are considered one of the most fascinating Yazd tourist attractions.
Zoroastrian Burial Practices
In ancient times, Towers of Silence were commonly built on hilltops to keep them away from populated areas. Bodies would be placed in the tower’s open-air structure, where natural elements, such as sunlight and birds, would break them down. This ritual not only ensured that the earth remained pure but also symbolized the cycle of life and the return of the soul to nature.
Decline of the Tradition
As Iran modernized, Zoroastrian burial practices began to fade. In the 20th century, the Iranian government restricted open-air burials, leading to the gradual end of Tower of Silence rituals. However, in some Zoroastrian communities, similar practices still exist in other parts of the world, and in Yazd, the tower remains preserved as a historical site.
Tower of Silence’s Location in the Desert
The Tower of Silence is located on the outskirts of Yazd, a city in central Iran known for its Zoroastrian heritage. Situated about 15 kilometers south of the city center, the tower stands atop a rocky hill in a desert landscape.
This isolated location was chosen to ensure privacy for Zoroastrian burial rituals and to keep the sacred site away from populated areas. Visitors can easily reach the Tower of Silence from Yazd by car or local transportation, and it’s often included in guided tours. You can check out our Yazd travel guide for more info about this city and its attractions.
Tower of silence Photos
A Simple, but Symbolic Structure
The architecture of the Tower of Silence is simple and symbolic. Each tower is a circular stone structure with a flat, open roof, designed for natural exposure to the elements. Built using local stone and clay, the materials blend seamlessly with the surrounding desert landscape.
Structure and Layout
Inside the tower, the roof area is divided into sections designated for men, women, and children. The circular form of the tower represents infinity and the eternal cycle of life, a central concept in Zoroastrian spirituality. Surrounding the base of the tower are lower, enclosed rooms where family members and priests would gather to perform rituals before the body was placed on the tower.
Positioning and Environmental Adaptation
The Tower of Silence is strategically placed on hilltops, providing isolation and protection from animals and pollution. This elevated position also allows for maximum exposure to sunlight, facilitating the natural decomposition process. The materials used in construction were chosen to endure Yazd’s harsh desert climate, preserving the tower’s structure for centuries.
Working Hours of Tower of silence
The Tower of Silence in Yazd is generally open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, hours may vary slightly depending on the season, holidays, or local regulations.
Conclusion
The Tower of Silence is a part of Iran’s ancient Zoroastrian heritage and shows the profound respect this culture holds for nature and the elements. Visiting this site offers insights into a spiritual practice that honors the cycle of life and the interconnectedness of all living things. As you walk through the desert landscape and explore the tower’s architecture, you gain insight into the values and beliefs of Zoroastrianism—a religion that has influenced Iran’s cultural identity for centuries.
