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Abstract
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The Baba Gorgor hot springs, located in the active Sanandaj-Sirjan tectonic zone (SSZ) of Iran, exhibit a unique convergence of geology, culture, and geomythology. These springs and their active travertine formations—recognized as a National Natural Heritage of Iran since 2012—are situated 28 km from Qorveh and formed after Quaternary volcanic activity associated with the Pasadenian orogeny. Fed by CO₂-rich reservoirs along the Zagros tectonic trends, the hot spring system provides valuable insights into mantle processes, establishing the Qorveh-Takab region as a key site for studying Iran’s youngest geological events. The geological significance of Baba Gorgor is further enriched by local Kurdish and Turkic-Islamic mythologies. The tomb of Sayyed Jalal al-Din and the travertine formations, often interpreted as “stone dragon,” add religious and mythological dimensions to the site. Ritual practices such as coin throwing and tying votive cloths intertwine spirituality with geology, reinforcing cultural identity and sanctifying the shared geological-human heritage. Archaeological evidence, ranging from Paleolithic tools to Safavid ceramics, underscores the long-standing human interaction with this landscape. Baba Gorgor serves both as a pilgrimage site and a geotourism destination, offering opportunities for interdisciplinary education. By integrating geomythological narratives—such as dragon legends and healing spring beliefs—with rigorous geological science, the site can attract pilgrims, health tourists, and geology enthusiasts alike. However, sustainable development is essential to prevent the degradation of its fragile travertine layers and springs.
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