Zurkhaneh; the Iranian traditional gym, is a spectacular training club designed for men to practice special training considered a heroic sport. This ritual sport date back to ancient Persia and registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. It is a combination of martial arts and special strength training that is performed by music.
Ancient Zoroastrians believed that everyone should develop their physical abilities along with their mental strength to enhance spirituality. You need to remove your shoes before getting in and you are allowed to sit around the arena. During the performance, the leader (Morshed) sings epics verses from the Iranian poets such as Ferdowsi or Hafiz while he is playing music.
Saheb Al-Zaman Zurkhaneh is one of the top things to do in Yazd not only for watching this unique performance but also because of its historical place. This stunning place was used as a water reservoir. It was built around 1580 and was used until modern irrigation made it useless. This structure is part of a bigger complex which is called the Amir Chakhmagh complex that is consists of a Bazaar and Mosque.
Lots of sweet shops and cafes surround Amir Chakhmagh square where you can have a delicious snack or buy some sweets.