Seti Pir Temple (Pir-e Naraki, Asadan Castle) | Zoroastrian Temple (Yazd, Iran)

Interested in the ancient Persian religions and rituals? Seti Pir Temple (also known as Asadan Castle, Pir-e Seti, and Pir-e Naraki) in eastern Yazd, will offer you a glimpse of Zoroastrian religion. Yazd is the best city of Iran to explore this ancient Persian religion. According to Zoroastrian mythology, Seti Pir Temple had been the refuge of a Sassanid (224-651 AD) queen. Later, Asadan Castle was built over this temple in the 18^th century. Stick with me to hear the whole story.

Entrance Gate of the Seti Pir Temple

Why Visit Seti Pir?

• Seti Pir is one of the famous Zoroastrian pilgrimage destinations.
• Asadan Castle features around 14 centuries of pre-Islamic and Islamic Iranian history.
• It is particularly the venue of a popular Zoroastrian ceremony.
• Seti Pir will familiarize you with the Zoroastrian religion.

The Story of Seti Pir

Rumor has it that during the Arab invasion of Iran in the 7^th century, the queen of the last Sassanid King had to escape from the Arab invaders who were chasing her. As she and her companions reached this region, she prayed and requested help. Suddenly, a nearby rock opened up and they entered it. Yet, another myth goes that the queen and her companions jumped into a well in the region. Thus, their enemies failed to find them or their bodies. Later, a Zoroastrian individual had a dream about the queen’s tragedy. As he opened his eyes, he found himself near the well which the queen had fallen in. Eventually, he built the Seti Pir Temple over the well, despite the challenges he had to go through.

How Seti Pir Looks

Firstly, you will behold a castle with four flanking towers surrounding the castle. Inside the structure, you will behold the magical well and a corridor will lead you to a vault. Indeed, the sacred vault attributed to the queen, is Seti Pir Temple. The temple comprises sanctuaries and often abounds with candles and incense. You might also observe pilgrims praying in the temple. A highlight of the temple is the photo of Ashu Zarathustra (the Zoroastrian prophet) on the wall of the temple. The second highlight of the building is an inscription over the entrance, which features the Zoroastrian motto. Specifically, the motto of the religion is “Good Thoughts, Good Words, Good Deeds.” A major element of the temple is the altar, in which the sacred fire burns permanently.

Pictures of Zarathustra Decorating the Sanctuary of Seti Pir

Zoroastrian Rituals in Seti Pir Temple

Zoroasterians perform Seti Pir Ceremony, also known as Mahseti (or Maseti) Ceremony in mid-June on a yearly basis. First, the pilgrims conduct a special ceremony in Seti Pir Temple. Then, they continue their pilgrimage to Chak Chak Village, another Zoroastrian pilgrimage destination. During the ceremony, the pilgrims wear light-colored clothes, cover their hair and head to Seti Pir Temple, carrying fruits, food, and esfand (wild rue). Above all, a multitude of Zoroastrians from all over the globe attend the ceremony to worship God and recite verses from Avesta, the sacred book of Zoroastrianism. A reception follows the ceremony, whereby pilgrims receive Suruk (oily bread), cotton candy, and tea.

A Zoroastrian Ceremony

More about Seti Pir Temple

Nearby Attractions

In addition to Seti Pir Temple, I recommend you visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple of Yazd, another Zoroastrian tourist attraction. Besides, Amir Chakhmaq Complex, Jameh Mosque of Yazd, and Lari House will fascinate historical site admirers. Yet another tourist destination of the region, Alexander’s Prison, an eight-hundred-year-old monument, where Alexander of Macedonia was imprisoned is a reminiscent of the victory of Persians over Romans.

Restaurants Near Temple

Naqsh-e Jahan Restaurant

Fahadan Traditional Teahouse

Hamame Khan Restaurant

Saba Restaurant

Golestan pizza