TEHRAN - Se-Kuh-e fortress, whose name means “three mountains” in Persian, is one of the most remarkable historical landmarks in southeastern Iran and the largest mud-brick structure of its kind in Sistan-Baluchestan province.

Located less than 50 kilometers from the city of Zabol, this ancient fortress stands as a powerful symbol of the region’s history, architecture, and cultural identity.

Set within the vast plains of Sistan, Se-Kuh-e fortress is considered one of the most important attractions in the area. It is the second tallest structure in the Sistan plain after Mount Khajeh and has been officially registered as a national heritage site of Iran since February 2003. Surrounded by open landscapes and nearby rural settlements, the fortress offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore both natural beauty and historical depth.

The broader region itself is known for its exceptional heritage. Despite being one of the driest areas in Iran, Sistan-Baluchestan is home to significant archaeological and natural sites, including the UNESCO-listed Shahr-e Sokhteh and the vast Lut Desert. Historically, this region served as a vital link between the Indus Valley and the Babylonian civilizations, making it a crossroads of cultures and traditions.

Natural formation and setting

The name Se-Kuh-e originates from the natural formation of the site. Due to the retreat of waters from the Zabol plain and changes in the course of the Helmand River, the area was once submerged. Over time, as the water receded, three elevated landforms emerged from the plain. Initially appearing as small islands, these formations gradually became dry hills, giving rise to the name “Three Mountains.”

The fortress is located in the Shib-Ab district, within the village of Se-Kuh-e. It is bordered by semi-circular plains to the northeast, the village of Delasa to the south, the lands of Lutek to the west, and another historic site to the northwest.

Architectural features and specifications

The Fortress is built on an elevated rectangular platform with an approximate area of 3,700 square meters. It has two various routes from the east and west. Today, the western entrance is largely damaged and inaccessible, while the eastern entrance remains usable but features a steep route.

The fortress is an outstanding example of traditional Sistani architecture, constructed entirely from mud brick. Its design incorporates two types of barrel vault arches, which are built along straight lines and require flat rectangular bases. These arches were constructed using both solid and hollow techniques, with single-layer and double-layer methods.

Inside the structure, corridors are covered with low-rise arches, rooms are designed with higher and more pronounced arches, roof construction follows a traditional technique in which builders start from opposite sides and gradually complete the ceiling as the structures meet in the middle. And, ultimately, most roofs are domed, reflecting architectural influences from central Iran.

Historical importance

Although some architectural features suggest origins in the Afsharid period, the peak of the fortress’s political and military significance occurred during the reign of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. During this time, it played an important defensive role against British expansionist efforts and attempts to separate parts of Iran. It also contributed to military campaigns toward Herat.

A key historical moment took place in 1852, when Sardar Ali Khan Sarbandi raised the Iranian flag over the fortress, symbolizing loyalty to the central government.

The historical significance of Se-Kuh-e fortress can be understood in three main ways:

It was one of the last residential strongholds of a regional ruler during the Qajar era.
It represents one of the final examples of traditional Sistani architectural style.
And finally, it served as a strategic site during conflicts between Iran and Great Britain, symbolizing resistance and territorial defense.

Cultural significance and local traditions

Beyond its physical structure, the fortress holds a deep place in the cultural memory of the region. According to local oral traditions, coins were once minted within the fortress. There are also stories of a deep well in the southern section that was used during times of conflict, said to be so deep that the sound of a falling stone could not be heard. Today, only a shallow piece of this well remains.

Sistan-Baluchestan is more than a geographical region; it is a land rich in culture, traditions, and human connection. Its people are known for their hospitality, strong family ties, and respect for elders. Oral storytelling, poetry, and inherited traditions continue to preserve the memory of past generations. These cultural values, shaped by centuries of interaction between Persian, South Asian, and Islamic influences, are reflected in places like Se-Kuh-e fortress.

A Living heritage

Today, Se-Kuhe Fortress stands not only as an architectural monument but also as a testament to the resilience, history, and cultural richness of the Sistan region. Visiting this fortress allows travelers to step into a living narrative, one shaped by nature, history, and human creativity, and to experience a unique part of Iran’s heritage that continues to endure through time.

AM