The Alachigh

(pronounced Al-a-cheeg)

We have, over the course of the last winter, built an absolutely stunning structure called an Alachigh.  It's certainly been challenging but the finished result has made it all worthwhile!

The Alachigh is a structure used by a nomadic tribe, the Shahsavan, in northern Iran.  The Shahsavan tribe have a long history in Iran, dating back to 990 A.D. More than 100,000 Shahsavan live in and around the province of Ardabil and there are still to this day over 5,000 Shahsavan living a migratory or semi-migratory life in this area.  The Alachigh is hemispherically shaped and in some ways is a cross between a yurt and a tipi. There is a central crown, as in the yurt, but the roof and walls are made from timbers which curve from the crown to the ground.  Traditionally the timber framework would be covered with felt but we have used a 12 oz stone coloured canvas with a crown cover over the centre of the roof and a large window which has a wonderful view.

The Alachigh is 24' in diameter and comfortably sleeps six.  It is made from locally sourced oak and has a cast iron wood stove and oak furniture.   As always, rugs, sheepskins, cushions and colourful covers adorn this beautiful structure.