Shahsevan

Shahsevan is the most prominent nomadic group in Iran’s northwestern region. They mostly live in the regions of Mugan plain and Ardabil and speak Azeri. Primarily, they raise livestock in pastures. Shahsevan in Azeri means king’s patron. Shahsevan nomads were followers of Safavid kings and believe in Shia Islam. They live in simple circular tents. Women wear bright and colorful clothes. Besides, using wools of their sheep and fur of goats they produce handicrafts such as carpet, Kilim, Ziloo, Jajim, and saddlebag. Ashiqlar musicians perform the traditional music of Shahsevan. They sing heroic and romantic poems along with playing Komuz (a Turkic string instrument).

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