TEHRAN—A museum dedicated to Iranian handicrafts and traditional arts is scheduled to be inaugurated in Ardabil province, northwestern Iran, in the near future, the provincial tourism chief has said.

The museum is aimed at depicting the evolution of Ardabil handicrafts from ancient to modern times, said Fardin Eini, CHTN reported on Wednesday.

The museum, which is located inside the bathhouse of the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble, will open its doors to the public after being fully equipped, the official added.

With 14 entries, Iran ranks first globally for the number of cities and villages registered by the World Crafts Council, as China with seven entries, Chile with four, and India with three ones come next.

Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and Shrine Ensemble is a microcosm of Sufism, where arrays of harmonious sun-scorched domes, well-preserved and richly ornamented facades, and interiors, and, above all, an atmosphere of peace and tranquility have all made a must-see stopover while traversing northwest Iran.

Sprawling on a high, windswept plateau, Ardabil is well-known for having lush natural beauties, hospitable people, and its silk and carpet trade tradition. It is also home to the UNESCO-registered Sheikh Safi al-Din Khanegah and the Shrine Ensemble. The province is very cold in winter and mild in summer, attracting thousands every year. The capital city of Ardabil is usually recorded as one of the coldest cities in the country in winter.

ABU/AM