Babek Fortress.

Babek Khurrami.

Babek Fortress.

Babek Fortress.

Babek Fortress at July 1st of each year.

Babek Fortress at July 1st of each year.

Babek Fortress at July 1st of each year.

This castle is located 5 km South-West of Kaleybar, and 148 km from Tabriz at 2,600 m above sea level. Surrounding the castle are valleys and only access to this structure is through a narrow track.

It was from this castle that Babek and his followers fought against the Arabs for 22 years.

Historical evidences show that this castle was the center of rule of whole region at 6th and 7th centuries.

Babek Khurrami (around 795, according to some other sources 798-14.3.838) - was leader of National Movement for Freedom in Azerbaijan.

He was born at Bilalabad village near Ardabil, ancient Azerbaijani city.

Babek joined Khurramis and led Azeri people's war for freedom against Arab aggressors and Caliphate. Well known Arab Generals were defeated by Babek in war. 6 famous Generals of Arab army were killed by Babek's troops.

According to Masudi, an Arab historian (10th century), widely spread Babek movement had become a serious danger for Abbasi Caliphate.

Arabs captured Babek by betrayal committed by an Armenian ruler Sahl Ibn Sumbat. On Janauary 4, 838 Babek and his brother Abdulla were taken to Samira city. Caliph Muntasim tortured Babek to death.

Close to a million of Southern Azerbaijanis are preparing for the annual tradition of demonstrations in the Babek Castle on July the first of each year. Sounds ridiculous, but these demonstrations, however, are strongly prohibited from the side of Iranian government. Therefore, even this days a lot of people get arrested for their activities during Babek National Movement Remembrance Day.

Look also here to learn more: http://www.tribun.com/1500/1502.htm