Dezful history

The city of Dezful, located in southwestern Iran in the Khuzestan Province, possesses a rich and ancient history closely tied to the era of the Sassanid Empire. Its emergence and development were largely defined by the famous old bridge, which gave the city its name.

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Dezful dates back to the 3rd century AD, during the reign of the Sassanid King Shapur I. It was by his order that a bridge was erected across the Dez River, which became the foundation for the future city. The name Dezful is derived from the phrase "Dezh-Pol," which translates as "fortress-bridge." This indicates that the settlement originally emerged to guard and service this strategically important crossing. Notably, according to historical records, the labour of Roman prisoners of war was used for the bridge's construction. This bridge, also known as the Roman Bridge, is considered one of the oldest functioning bridges in the world.

Key Factors of Formation

The growth and significance of Dezful were determined by several key factors:

• Strategic Location: The bridge across the mighty Dez River turned the city into a vital hub on trade and military routes connecting Mesopotamia with the central regions of Persia.
• Fertile Lands: The city is situated on the fertile plain of Khuzestan, which has fostered agricultural development since ancient times. The presence of the Dez and Karkheh rivers provided favourable conditions for farming.
• Military Significance: The fortress guarding the bridge played an important defensive role, strengthening Sassanid authority in the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

From the very beginning, Dezful's economy was closely linked to agriculture and trade. The city was known as a centre for the production of various agricultural crops. The bridge not only ensured the passage of caravans but also served as a dam for irrigating surrounding fields. The architecture of the bridge itself, combining elements of Roman and Sassanid engineering, is an outstanding cultural monument and a testament to the technological achievements of that era. The city quickly became an important administrative and economic centre of the region, maintaining its significance for many centuries.

Key Dates in the History of Dezful

The history of Dezful spans nearly two millennia. The city, which grew around an ancient bridge, has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, playing an important role in the region's history.

Ancient World and Sassanid Era

• Circa 260-270 AD — By order of the Sassanid King Shapur I, Roman prisoners of war construct a bridge across the Dez River, becoming the foundation for the future city.
• 3rd–4th Centuries AD — A fortified settlement known as "Dezh-Pol" ("fortress-bridge") forms around the bridge, becoming a vital strategic and trade point.

Islamic and Medieval Periods

• 7th Century — Following the Islamic conquest of Persia, the city becomes part of the Caliphate, and its name gradually transforms into Dezful.
• 879 AD — Ya'qub ibn al-Layth al-Saffar, the founder of the Saffarid dynasty, is buried in the city, highlighting Dezful's significance in the region.
• 10th–12th Centuries — The Jameh Mosque (Congregational Mosque) is erected; it was expanded over centuries and remains one of the city's most important architectural monuments today.
• Seljuk and Ilkhanid Dynasties Period — The bridge and city undergo multiple reconstructions and fortifications, preserving their economic importance.

Modern and Contemporary Era

• 1925–1979 — During the Pahlavi dynasty era, Dezful develops as a major agricultural and industrial centre of the Khuzestan Province.
• 1980–1988 — During the Iran-Iraq War, the city becomes a symbol of resilience, withstanding numerous missile and artillery attacks.
• January 1981 — The "Battle of Dezful" (Operation Nasr), one of the largest tank battles of the war, takes place in the city's vicinity.
• Late 20th – Early 21st Centuries — The city actively recovers after the war, with restoration works carried out on historical monuments, including the famous ancient bridge.

Major Milestones in Dezful's Development

The story of Dezful is a history of engineering achievements, transformation into a vital economic hub, and incredible resilience. Each stage has left its mark on the city's appearance and significance.

• Construction of the Sassanid Bridge (3rd Century AD): A fundamental event that gave the city both its name ("fortress-bridge") and life itself. Erected by order of Shapur I, the bridge not only connected strategic routes but also served as a dam, allowing for the creation of an irrigation system and turning the surrounding lands into a fertile oasis. This laid the foundation for the region's agrarian economy for centuries to come.
• Formation of an Islamic Cultural Centre (10th–12th Centuries): The construction of the Jameh Mosque marked Dezful's transformation into a significant religious and cultural centre. The mosque, which was completed and expanded in subsequent eras, became the architectural dominant feature and the heart of the old city.
• Development of Crafts and Trade: Thanks to its location on trade routes and the presence of developed agriculture, Dezful became a major centre for crafts. The city's historical bazaar, still active today, was the focal point of economic life where local goods, from citrus fruits to handicrafts, were sold.
• Modernisation in the Pahlavi Era (1925–1979): During this period, the city underwent significant urban planning changes. The old bridge was reconstructed using modern materials such as cement and metal. Dezful strengthened its status as an important agricultural and industrial hub of the Khuzestan Province.
• Symbol of Resilience during the Iran-Iraq War (1980–1988): The city was subjected to massive and destructive shelling, earning the nickname "City of Rockets." Despite immense destruction and loss, its residents demonstrated exceptional courage. This tragic period has become an integral part of Dezful's modern identity.
• Post-War Recovery and Heritage Preservation: After the war ended, a large-scale reconstruction process began. Special attention was paid not only to restoring residential districts and infrastructure but also to the restoration of historical monuments, including the famous ancient bridge and ancient hydraulic structures, allowing the unique cultural heritage of the city to be preserved.

The architectural appearance of Dezful is a living chronicle of its centuries-old history, rooted in deep antiquity. The city, located in southwestern Iran in the Khuzestan Province, formed around iconic engineering and defensive structures, which is reflected even in its name, translating as "fortress bridge." Its urban development is inextricably linked to key eras of Persian history.

The Sassanid Era (3rd-7th Centuries) was definitive for Dezful. It was during this period that the city's main symbol—the Old Bridge—was erected. Built in the 3rd century AD by order of Shapur I, it is considered one of the oldest functioning bridges in the world. This grandiose structure, constructed using Roman engineering techniques, was a key transport artery connecting the region with Mesopotamia for centuries. The bridge and the fortress located beside it became the core around which the city expanded.

Islamic Period and Traditional Architecture. With the arrival of Islam, mosques began to appear in the city, such as the Jameh Mosque (Congregational Mosque), the first structures of which date back to the early Islamic period. However, the greatest interest lies in the old part of the city, built with traditional fired brick houses. This development is a vivid example of Persian architecture adapted to a hot climate. Narrow streets, high walls, and courtyards create shade and coolness. In the architecture of historical buildings, such as the Tizno House, one can see characteristic elements like arches and intricate brickwork.

Engineering Heritage. Besides the bridge, an important part of Dezful's urban fabric is its ancient hydraulic structures. A system of old water mills and canals, partially preserved to this day, demonstrates a high level of past engineering thought and highlights the city's inseparable connection with the Dez River. These structures, like the bridge, largely date back to the Sassanid era and are an integral part of Dezful's unique historical landscape.

The city of Dezful, located in the Khuzestan Province of Iran, is the birthplace of many prominent figures who have left a significant mark on the country's history, religion, and culture. Below are some of the most famous natives of this ancient city.

Religious and Scientific Figures

• Sheikh Morteza Ansari (1799–1864) — one of the most influential Shia theologians and jurists of the 19th century. He is considered the founder of modern Shia jurisprudence and the concept of "Taqlid" (following an authoritative Mujtahid). His works, such as "al-Rasa'il" and "al-Makasib," remain the foundation of the curriculum in Islamic seminaries worldwide.
• Abdolhossein Zarrinkoub (1923–1999) — although born in Borujerd, his family hailed from Dezful. He was a distinguished Iranian scholar, historian, literary critic, and academic. His works on the history of Iran, Islamic civilization, and Persian literature are considered classics.
• Seyyed Ahmad Faali Dezfuli — a contemporary Ayatollah and religious figure known for his sermons and lectures. He enjoys great authority among believers in the Khuzestan Province and beyond.

Figures of Culture and Art

• Tahereh Saffarzadeh (1936–2008) — a distinguished Iranian poet, writer, translator, and university professor. She made a significant contribution to modern Persian literature and became known for her innovative poetry and her translation of the Quran into Persian and English. Her work has been recognised with numerous national and international awards.
• Alireza Ghambari (born 1964) — a renowned Iranian calligrapher, artist, and researcher. He is a master of traditional styles of Persian calligraphy, such as Nastaliq and Shekasteh Nastaliq. His works have been displayed at numerous exhibitions in Iran and abroad, contributing to the popularisation of this ancient art.