How to Pronounce Kermanshah

Meaning and Context

Kermanshah, a major urban center and the capital of Kermanshah Province, is a historically significant city nestled in the Zagros Mountains of western Iran. Founded in the 4th century AD under Sassanid rule, it has long been a crucial crossroads on the ancient Silk Road, fostering a rich tapestry of Persian culture, Kurdish heritage, and archaeological wonders. The city and its surrounding region are renowned for UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the magnificent Bisotun inscription, a trilingual cuneiform relief commissioned by Darius the Great, and the awe-inspiring Taq-e Bostan rock reliefs from the Sassanid era. As a hub for Iranian tourism, Kermanshah offers visitors a deep dive into pre-Islamic and Islamic history, alongside vibrant local traditions, making it a premier destination for archaeological sites in Iran and those exploring the cultural landscape of Kurdistan Iran. Its strategic location near the border with Iraq also underscores its enduring geopolitical and economic importance in the region.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The standard and correct English transliteration from Persian is "Kermanshah." A common historical alternative spelling is "Kermānshāh," which includes a macron to indicate a long vowel, though this diacritical mark is often omitted in general English usage. Frequent misspellings and typos arise from phonetic misinterpretations and keyboard errors, such as "Kerman Shah" (splitting it into two words), "Kermansha," "Kermanshahr" (confusing it with the Persian suffix -shahr, meaning city), or "Kermanshahh" (doubling the final letter). In some older texts, one might encounter "Kermanshahan," which more closely references the province. The Persian pronunciation, /kermɒːnˈʃɒːh/, can lead to misspellings like "Kermanshaah" in attempts to capture the elongated vowel sounds.

Example Sentences

Archaeologists from around the world travel to Kermanshah to study the detailed narratives carved into the cliffs at Bisotun.

Many travelers on the classic Iran itinerary make sure to include a few days in Kermanshah to experience its unique blend of Kurdish hospitality and ancient history.

The local cuisine of Kermanshah, particularly its renowned khoresht-e khalal (a walnut and pomegranate stew), is a highlight for culinary tourists.

Due to its proximity to the Iraqi border, Kermanshah has historically served as a vital commercial gateway between the two nations.

The intricate stone carvings at Taq-e Bostan, just northeast of the city center, provide an invaluable glimpse into Sassanid royal ceremonies and artistic prowess.

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