Middle Girl Castle (Qayz Qalasi): A Tour of History and Legend
Dokhtar Mianeh Castle, a mysterious and ancient building on top of Kafilankoh mountains, has become one of the most popular tourist attractions of East Azerbaijan Province, not only because of its age and special architecture, but also because of the fascinating and mysterious legends it has in its heart.
Passing on history:
As with many historical buildings in Iran, the exact date of construction of Dokhtar Castle is in an aura of uncertainty. Some historians, referring to the type of architecture and materials used in the construction of the castle, attribute it to the Sassanid period. While another group, relying on archaeological evidence and findings, considers its construction in the 7th century AH and during the rule of the Ilkhanids to be more likely.
Castle architecture:
Dokhtar Castle consists of two separate parts, each of which has its own unique features:
First part:
It includes the entrance gate, tower and rampart, and the castle fence.
The entrance gate of the castle, with its gable arch and brick decorations, has given this part of the castle a special grandeur.
The tower and ramparts of the castle are located at the highest point of the mountain and were built to watch and protect the castle from enemies.
Castle fence with materials
Part II:
It includes the main palace and its ancillary facilities.
The main palace of the castle is located on the highest point of the mountain and consists of two separate floors.
The first floor includes halls, rooms and kitchen.
The second floor was used as the residence of the ruler or commander of the castle.
Additional facilities of the castle include water tanks, food storage and stables
Legends of the castle:
As mentioned, the middle girl’s castle is intertwined with various legends. One of the most famous of these legends is the story of a beautiful girl named “Mahin Bano” who sought refuge in this castle to escape from her suitors.
