Varzesh-e-Bastani is traditionally practiced in a building called a Zoorkhaneh, which means "home of strength" and is often built and decorated in an ancient style that's led archaeologists to ...

The main part of a Varzesh-e Bastani session is dedicated to gymnastics or calisthenics, notably wielding of wooden clubs (meel) and metal shields (sang), pulling of bow-shaped iron weights (kaman), ...

Iranian wrestling, which is part of the sport, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition, Varzesh-e bastani is recognised as the oldest sport in the world. Modern athletes train in ...

Varzesh-e bastani, also known as varzesh-e pahlvani, Pahlevani, and Zoorkhanei ritual, is a traditional Iranian martial art. It is a complex of physical exercises that includes elements of combat arts ...

The Iranian zurkhaneh, or “house of strength,” is more than an octagonal pit where men exercise, box and wrestle, practicing varzesh-e bastani or “ancient sport”.

Iran's "ancient sport" -- or "varzesh bastani" -- a traditional form of athletics that combines elements of Islam and ancient Persian beliefs, has long been a male-only domain. But not so much ...