Iran (5,610 m) – Sacred Pagan Persian Site
Mount Damavand is a dormant volcano, the tallest volcano in mainland Asia and the highest mountain in Iran. It has been considered a sacred mountain since before the arrival of the Abrahamic faiths in the region, and is closely associated with Zoroastrian mythology. Damavand is also the iconic natural symbol of the modern-day nation of Iran.
The area around Damavand is located to major ancient trade routes and has been inhabited since prehistoric times. According to Persian legend, several beings of great evil are imprisoned within the mountain, including a terrible tyrant and a three-headed dragon. Thanks to the hot springs that abound in the area, the latter legend is still a favorite local legend.
Mount Damavand is an immense, almost perfectly-conical snow-capped peak that utterly dominates the surrounding mountains. It is located forty miles due east of the capital of Teheran and fifty miles south of the Caspian Sea. Major roads go straight to the foot of Damavand making it extremely accessible. Well-worn trails go almost to the top. The mountain is covered in natural marvels, from the aforementioned hot springs to a perpetually frozen waterfall.
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