Yakhchals: Ancient Refrigerators
Yazd is also known for its yakhchals, ancient structures used for storing ice and preserving food during the hot summer months. These dome-shaped buildings, made from mud-brick and clay, have thick walls that provide excellent insulation, keeping the interior cool even in extreme heat. The yakhchals were used to store ice collected from nearby mountains during the winter, which was then used to cool water and preserve perishable goods during the summer.
The yakhchals are another example of how the people of Yazd have adapted to their environment, using innovative techniques to create a sustainable way of life in the desert. These ancient refrigerators are a symbol of the city’s ingenuity and resilience, making them an integral part of Yazd’s architectural heritage.
