Towers of Silence (Dakhmeh) Tourism

The Towers of Silence, known locally as Dakhmeh, are ancient Zoroastrian structures located on the outskirts of Yazd, Iran. These towers were used for 'sky burials', where the dead were laid to rest atop the towers to be exposed to the sun and scavenging birds, reflecting the Zoroastrian belief in the purity of the earth, wind, fire, and water, which prohibits contaminating them with human remains. The practice was based on the idea of returning the body to nature in the most environmentally friendly and respectful way possible. The two towers at this site date back to the Safavid era and have been abandoned since the 1960s, when such rituals were prohibited. The site provides visitors with a serene yet haunting atmosphere, offering a glimpse into the ancient religious customs and the history of Zoroastrian communities in Iran. The surrounding landscape of the arid, desolate desert further emphasizes the historical significance and the solemnity of the Towers of Silence. Visitors can explore the pathways, staircases, and the flat-topped circular structures while taking in the stark beauty of the landscape.