Web-site Navigation: Ghobadian FAQ Persia BC Persia AD Modern Iran Visitors' Book	Frequently Asked Questions 1. Who are the Ghobadian family? The Ghobadian (Harsini) family, from the historic town of Harsin, formed part of the pre-Revolutionary Iranian Aristocracy found in the Kermanshah province of Western Iran up until the early 1970s. The Family have been influential in the region over a period of several hundred years leading up the the Revolution that saw the country transition into the modern Islamic Republic that it is today and which also saw the entire country move under the control of Central Government. Since then, The Family has maintained a presence in the region and also in the capital, Tehran, where an Avenue was named after them in recognition of their contribution to the region. A modern family tree can be found here. 2. Where is Kermanshah? Located in the western part of Iran, Kermanshah province covers an area of 24,400 square km. It has 11 districts: Kermanshah (the centre), Harsin, Sahneh, Kangavar, Sanghar, Islam Abad Gharb, Gilan Gharb, Ghasr shirin, Sar Pol Zahab, Javan Rood, and Paveh. 3. Facts & Figures (1979 census): Population (1978 est.): 1.8 million Cities: Kermanshah (now Bakhatran) was the capital with an estimated population of 350,000 (1978 est.) Languages: Farsi (official), various Arabic and Kurdish dialects, English widely used Ethnic Groups: Persian (50%), Arab (35%), indigenous or migrant tribes (15%) Religions: Christianity (40%), Islam (27%), Buddhism (14%), Judaism (8%) Defence (1978 est.): Army (2,500) Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, iron ore, lead, manganese, zinc, sulphur Land use (1978 est.): arable land (10%), permanent crops (1%), permanent pastures (27%), forests and woodland (7%), other (55%) 4. Regional Overview: The people of this province are a combination of Kurds, Turks, Lurs & various other tribes. Having a long border with a neighbouring country has given the province a very special military importance. Kermanshah had a big part to play during the invasion of Iraqi troops in the 1980s. There is enough evidence to show humans have been living in this area for well over 5000 years. Kermanshah was one of the most glorious satraps in the Achaemenid era and was regarded highly by most kings throughout the years. No wonder there is so many historical castles, bridges, fire temples & ancient roads in this part of Iran. In particular, the relics on Tagh Bostan & Bistun (near Kermanshah), and the famous Anahita temple (near Kangavar) are major attraction sites for visitors. Bistun has been called a living museum of the Iranian civilization from ancient times to the present. There was another famous town in this area that served as the summer capital for the Sassanid kings. It was called Tisfun. Ivan Madayen and Tagh Kasra were also important centres for the kingdom. The remains of these historic sites are in present Iraq. The province is a combination of high mountains and fertile plains. The best-known mountains of Kermanshah are Kooh Sefid, Paru, and Bazi Deraz. The Plains are situated in Kangavar, Sahneh and Islam Abad districts. Rivers that run through the plains are Dinor, Khorram Rood, Gamasiab and Gharasu. The beauty of nature in Richap, Tagh Bostan and Bistun catch the visitors’ eyes. Carpets & Kilims made in the region have a wonderful texture & colour. There are also a number of elegant traditional handicrafts made by the Kurdish tribes around the region. People of the province are kind and warm-hearted. They respect tourists greatly and make them feel at home. The best time to go to Kermanshah is mid to late spring.