Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province
Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province is one of the 31 provinces of Iran, located in the central part of the country. The province's capital is the city of Shahr-e Kord, which is recognized as the largest city in the region.
Geography
Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province is situated in the heart of the Zagros Mountains, a vast mountain range that extends across north-western Iran and forms a natural barrier between Iran and Iraq. The province is known for its rugged terrain, with many high valleys and natural scenic beauty.
Population and Administration
According to the 2006 National Census, the province had a population of 843,784 in 194,171 households. This number grew to 895,263 people by the 2011 census, accounted in 234,416 households. By the 2016 census, the population reached 947,763 in 270,434 households. For administrative purposes, the province was classified as part of Region 2 when Iran's provinces were divided into five regions on June 22, 2014.
Language and Culture
The province is culturally rich and diverse. The Bakhtiari people, an ethnic group with a distinct cultural and historical identity, predominantly inhabit the area. They speak the Bakhtiari dialect, which is a variety of the Luri language. This dialect is primarily spoken in the western parts of the province, including the valleys and higher terrain areas, as well as around Lordegan in the south.
In addition to Bakhtiari, other languages such as Chārmahāli and Chaharmahali Turkic are spoken, especially in the northeastern parts of the province. These languages belong to the Southwestern branch of Iranian languages.
Cities and Settlements
Apart from Shahr-e Kord, other significant cities and towns include Saman, Hureh, and Bardeh. These urban centers are not only pivotal in the region's administrative framework but also serve as cultural and economic hubs.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province holds a rich history that reflects its strategic geographical setting and the cultural tapestry of its people. The [Bakhtiari people] are known for their nomadic traditions and have played significant roles in Iranian history. Their traditional lifestyle, including the pastoral nomadism, adds to the cultural richness of the province.