Ardabil is a city in northwest Iran. Its name is an Avestan word that is composed of the two words Arta (holy) and Ville (city) meaning the holy city. It is still called “Ardaville” or “Ardeville” among the Talysh speakers of Wilkij (Namin) and Astara, meaning “the city of Arda” or the city of Arta. Arta, according to the ancient Iranians, is the law of order and creation in pre-Zoroastrian times. According to the Avesta, the Persian prophet Zarathustra was born along the river Daei Yeta, which is now called Aras, and wrote his book in Sabalan, and to promote his religion, he turned to the victors. Ardabil had a special place among the cities of Azerbaijan during the Parthian period and was the capital of Azerbaijan.

The importance of Ardabil increased during the Safavid period and is evidenced by the remnants of this period throughout the city. Ardabil, due to its location at the foot of Sabalan Mountain, is one of the coldest regions of Iran, which is almost cool in all seasons.

Its historical sites include the tomb of Sheikh Safi al-Din, the tomb of Sheikh Jibril and the historical bazaar of Ardabil. Among the natural monuments of Ardabil, he mentioned the natural spas in Sarein, Lake Shurabil, Lake Nevar, Hir tourist area, and many others. The city’s souvenirs are black halva, natural honey and dairy products.

Local dishes of the locals include Pichaq Ghimeh, Ash Doogh, Kheshil, Hera, Saj Echi, Soghan Sui, Bozbash, Kaleh Joosh, Marji Shorbasi, Sutdi Ploo, Sari Halva, various broths and kebabs, Qiqnagh, Soup, Saj Echi (Buzartama ), Marji Pete, Qozuli Ploo, Tarshi Ghormeh, Tarshli Ash, Imam Ashi (Sari Ash), Yavan Ash, Gildik Ashi (Wild Nastaran), Choghartama, Qoyimaq, Qisawa, etc.