Zanjan is the capital of the province of the same name. Water resources and soil fertility; have made this area suitable for agriculture. This province holds the first position of grape production in Iran. Conventional language of this province is Azari Turkish, but because of being near to Tehran Persian language is also common. The people of Zanjan were originally followers of Zoroastrianism, after the conquest of Iran by the Arabs, they became Muslim and 300 years later they converted to be Shia Muslims. Historians believe the foundation of Zanjan coincided with the reign of Ardeshir Babakan, the Sasanid King. At first the name of city was Zangan and then it changed to Zanjan. The city was heavily damaged by the Mongol invasion, but since the Mongol ruler Sultan Muhammad Khodabandeh embraced Shiite Islam, he worked so hard for developing the city. During the reign of this king, Zanjan became an important commercial, religious and political center. The famous building, Soltaniyeh Dome was built by his order. Because of handicrafts and decoration Zanjan is so famous in Iran, Including knives, traditional sandals, Charoogh and jewelry.
The main attractions of Zanjan are: Traditional Bazaar, Salt Man Museum, Sangi Caravansary, Great Mosque and Rakht Shoykhane Building (built for washing clothes in winter).
