Urmia

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Urmia (also spelled Orumiyeh) is the capital of West Azerbaijan Province, Iran. It is the 10th most populous city in Iran, with a population of over 667,499 as of the 2016 census. Urmia is situated on a high altitude plain, approximately 1,330 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest cities in Iran. The city is known for its diverse population, historical sites, and natural beauty.

History[edit | edit source]

Urmia has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. The city was first mentioned in Assyrian records in the 9th century BC. It was later conquered by the Medes, Persians, Macedonians, Parthians, and Sassanids. The city was an important center of the Silk Road and played a significant role in the spread of Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Islam in the region.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Urmia is located in the northwestern part of Iran, near the borders with Turkey and Iraq. The city is surrounded by mountains and has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. The Urmia Lake, one of the largest salt lakes in the world, is located to the east of the city.

Economy[edit | edit source]

The economy of Urmia is based on agriculture, industry, and services. The city is a major producer of fruits, vegetables, and livestock products. It also has several industrial parks and is home to many small and medium-sized enterprises.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Urmia is a multicultural city with a diverse population of Azeris, Kurds, Assyrians, Armenians, and Persians. The city is known for its traditional music, dance, and cuisine. It also hosts several cultural and religious festivals throughout the year.

Education[edit | edit source]

Urmia is a major educational center in Iran. The city is home to several universities and research institutions, including the Urmia University, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, and Urmia University of Technology.

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Urmia is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The city has a modern transportation infrastructure, including the Urmia Airport, Urmia Railway Station, and an extensive network of highways and roads.

See also[edit | edit source]

Urmia Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD