In the heart of Iran's Zagros mountains, near the city of Chelgard in Koohrang, lies a vast plain stretching over 3,600 hectares, where the rare and delicate inverted tulips bloom each spring. These flowers, known locally as the "crying flower," are not merely botanical wonders but living symbols woven deeply into the fabric of Iranian history and myth.

Iran (IMNA) - The inverted tulip, a member of the lily family, carries a poignant legacy. Its lemon-yellow species, called the Zagros tulip, is said to have emerged from the tragic tale of Siavash, a prince whose sorrow turned into these solemn blooms-his tears immortalized in petals. This flower, with its pendulous blossoms resembling a crown or a weeping bride, has long been an emblem of mourning and resilience, echoing through the verses of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh and the cultural memory of the region.

Every year, from late April to the rainy season, the plain transforms into a vibrant carpet of these tulips, their inverted heads nodding gently in the mountain breeze. The sight is a breathtaking spectacle of nature’s artistry, attracting visitors and photographers alike who come to witness this fleeting marvel. Beyond their beauty, the tulips hold medicinal properties, traditionally used to soothe rheumatism and joint pain, adding to their significance.

The plain is not only a sanctuary for these tulips but also a refuge for diverse wildlife, including partridges, goats, brown bears, and ravens, making it a vital ecological treasure. Efforts are underway to protect this unique habitat, with ambitions to register it as a UNESCO World Heritage site, ensuring that the silent elegy of Koohrang’s inverted tulips continues to bloom for generations to come.

In the delicate balance of life and legend, the inverted tulips of Koohrang stand as a testament to nature’s enduring grace and the deep cultural roots that bind a people to their land.

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