Semnān

Semnān, chief city and county (shahrestān) in Semnān ostān (province), northern Iran; it lies 3,734 feet (1,138 metres) above sea level on a large plain at the southern foot of the Elburz Mountains. In the city are an ornamented minaret (12th century) and several large places of worship. Semnān is a thriving market for local grains, cotton, and tobacco; textiles and carpets are also made there. The city is linked by rail with Tehrān and Mashhad. Semnān was cited by geographers for the rivulets running through its streets; its soft cotton textiles and its sweet paste made from almonds and figs were also noted. Pop. (2006) city, 126,780.