Babol

Babol, town (1991 pop. 137,348), N Iran, near the Caspian Sea, NE of Tehran. It is the region's chief commercial center and was once the major trading center of N Iran. Processed food and textiles are produced, and fruits, tea, tobacco, and cotton are raised nearby. Founded in the 16th cent., it was built on the site of the ancient city of Mamter. Ruins of a palace of Abbas I are there. Located in the Caspian littoral, the city receives abundant rainfall. It was formerly called Barfrush.

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Babol

Babol (بابل) is a city in the Iranian province of Mazandaran, north-east of Tehran and about 40 kilometers from Sari. It is the region's chief commercial centre and was once the major trading center of northern Iran. The population is estimated at 283,617 as of 2006.

History

Founded in the 16th century, it was built on the site of the ancient city of Mamter (deriving from "Mah Mithra" "great Mithra). Babol was formerly called Barforushdeh and Barforush afterwards.

Geography and climate

The city is located approximately 20 kilometers south of Caspian Sea on the west bank of Babol Rood River and receives abundant annual rainfall. Babol borders Babolsar to the north, Qaem Shahr and Savad Kooh to the east, and Amol to the west. Babol University is famous for its breathtaking environment.

Landmarks

The ruins of Shah Abbas I's palace are located in the city.

Economy

Food and textiles — as well as other processed goods — are produced. Fruits grown and processed in Babol include oranges, lemons, and tangerines. There are many rice farms around the city, and tea, tobacco, and cotton were processed in the past — about 20 years ago. Babol is more commercial compared to most nearby cities.