TEHRAN - Lalejin is a small city in west-central Iran, near the city of Hamedan, and is widely known as the country’s main center of pottery and ceramics.

With a history of more than 800 years, Lalejin is often called the “pottery capital of Iran” and, by some, the pottery capital of West Asia. In 2016, it was officially recognized as a World City of Pottery by the World Crafts Council, a title that brought it greater international attention and increased tourist visits.

Today, Lalejin attracts visitors from inside Iran and abroad who want to see pottery made by hand and experience a living craft tradition.

In fact, pottery is part of everyday life in the town where some 1,000 workshops are active. Walking through Lalejin, visitors find workshops, showrooms and small galleries along main streets and narrow alleys. Craftspeople shape clay on traditional wheels, paint detailed designs, apply colorful glazes and fire the pieces in kilns.

The products range from decorative items and vases to bowls, plates and everyday kitchenware. Lalejin pottery is made from high-quality local clay and is known for its durability and variety of colors and designs. For many travelers, the local market is the best place to buy souvenirs. The town is small, and pottery shops can be found almost everywhere, making it easy to compare styles and prices.

Visitors can also take part in pottery-making sessions. Under the guidance of experienced potters, tourists can try shaping clay and create a simple piece to take home as a personal memory of Lalejin.

Sightseeing in Lalejin is not limited to pottery. The town has a traditional bazaar offering other local handicrafts, including engraved metal plates, rugs and textiles. Lalejin is also known for its local food, especially its traditional dizi or abgoosht, which is a traditional Persian potato bean and lamb stew.

Lalejin has experienced many changes throughout history and was completely destroyed twice, during the Mongol and Afghan invasions, before being rebuilt. Among its historical sites are the Mohajeran Mosque and the Mohajeran Bridge, both dating back to the Qajar period.

The surrounding area offers a calm, mountainous landscape with green countryside, suitable for short walks, hiking and picnics. Because of its cool, mountainous climate, Lalejin is considered a good destination to escape summer heat. Winters are cold and snowy, and travel can be difficult during that season. The best time to visit is spring and summer, especially the second half of spring, when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded.

Accommodation in Lalejin includes budget-friendly guesthouses, traditional-style lodgings and small eco-lodges. These options provide simple and comfortable stays for travelers.

Lalejin is located about 23 kilometers from Hamedan, a drive of around 30 minutes. It can be reached by private car, bus or train. From Tehran, Hamedan is about 360 kilometers away. The journey takes around four hours by car, five hours by train, and the shortest road route is via Saveh. Travelers who prefer rail travel can also transport their private cars by train to Hamedan.

Whether visitors come for pottery, local food, history or a quiet cultural experience, Lalejin offers a close look at a craft that has shaped the town’s identity for centuries.

AM