The monument covers a 20,000-square-meter area, remaining a symbol of the residential fortresses during the ancient times.
Rayen Castle is an adobe castle in 100 Kilometers south of Kerman province, Iran which is situated on the skirts of the mountain Haraz. The medieval mudbrick city of Rayen is similar to the Arg-e Bam city which was destroyed in an earthquake in December 2003. Rayen displays all the architectural elements of a deserted citadel. It is extremely well preserved, despite numerous natural disasters that have destroyed similar structures nearby, and it is one of the most interesting sites in Iran.
The monument covers a 20,000-square-meter area, remaining a symbol of the residential fortresses during the ancient times. According to the old documents, it was situated on the trade route, and was one of the centers for trading valuable goods and quality textiles. It was also a center of sword and knife manufacturing, and later on, also guns. Natural and historical attractions of Rayen area are not just limited to the ancient citadel. Existence of a waterfall near the city, the Haraz Mountain with 4501 meters of altitude, several fruit gardens, the mines of green and pink marble and several thermal springs have made it an attractive touristic destination.
Rayen Castle was inhabited until 150 years ago and, although believed to be at least 1,000 years old, may have foundations from the pre-Islamic Sassanid era.
Just like other fortresses, it consists of the public quarter and the aristocratic zone. The essential sectors such as Zoor khaneh (gymnasium for a traditional Persian sport), mosque, and stable can be seen in the citadel. Adobe is the main material used in its construction.