Tawseelah Castle

The Castle of Tawseelah, also known as Aamaj Castle, is a significant archaeological site located in the Kukherd Rural District of Bastak County within Iran's Hormozgan Province. Situated approximately one kilometer northwest of Kukherd city, the fortress was strategically built on an average hill overlooking the palm oasis of the Shamo Valley in the Durakhi mountains. This elevated position near Nakh Mountain provided a commanding view of the surrounding landscape. The structure itself was a squared fortified complex, with its northern interface extending about 111 meters and another side measuring roughly 67.5 meters. Its design incorporated deep trenches, a classic defensive feature used in pre-Islamic Persia to protect military bases and administrative centers from invasion.

Historically, the castle dates back to the Sassanid era, spanning from 226 to 651 CE, during which it served as both a regional government center and a vital military stronghold. It remained in use and maintenance until the late twelfth century, specifically between 1163 and 1192. The eventual decline of the fortress was caused by natural disasters rather than human conflict. A severe earthquake originating in Kukherd city initially destroyed much of the structure, and subsequent flooding in 1367 eradicated the remaining ruins. Today, the site stands as a testament to the region's ancient architectural capabilities and strategic importance, ranking as the third notable historical castle in the Kukherd area alongside the castles of Aamaj and Siba. Although now in ruins, its legacy persists through local historical records and archaeological interest in southern Iran's Sassanid heritage.