This book gives an account of a small Oxford University expedition to Persia in 1950 to bring back specimens of a fish, allegedly white and sightless, which was said to inhabit the underground water-courses of Iran. Though the four young men that made up the expedition failed in their quest, they discovered rural Persia where villagers still led medieval lives. The story includes an account of the qanats - the underground irrigation and tunnels employing ancient technology which still criss-cross the country making life in the desert possible.
A note on book covers: while we do our best to ensure the accuracy of cover images, ISBNs may at times be reused for different editions of the same title which may hence appear as a different cover.
Exploration of Persia’s ancient tunnels and rural life.
Who is this book for?
If you’re curious about hidden worlds and the people who still live by ancient ways, this book offers a fascinating glimpse. The story of the explorers' quest for a mythical fish sets the stage for vivid descriptions of Persia’s underground water systems and rural communities. It’s a captivating blend of adventure, history, and cultural discovery that invites you to see Persia through new eyes.