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The Roof of Qeshm is one of the main attractions among all Geosites. It is a semi-high plateau that is located in the central parts of the island, continuing into the western parts of the island and overlooking the northern coastline. It is called the Roof of Qeshm because it is the largest and highest plateau in the island and offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe the beautiful landscapes from above. The Roof of Qeshm overlooks the Tandis ha Valley from the north, where its beautiful geomorphology may be observed. The top layers at the Roof of Qeshm are formed from hard structures (mainly limestone) covered by numerous fossils (mainly bivalves), while in its peripheral sections, presence of silt and marl as well as sand, has resulted in heavy erosion.
The Roof of Qeshm in the central part of Qeshm Island is a high plateau that located in the vicinity of Tabi and Salkh villages. During Archaeological excavation, a large number of stone tools belonging to the Paleolithic Era have found in this area. Preliminary examination supports the hypothesis that the geosite had been early human stone tools making workshop. Archaeological studies show early human presence about 150,000 years ago in the geosite and archaeologists believe that the area is the oldest human settlement in the Persian Gulf.
A good way to access this Geosite is to travel through Tabl-Salakh road which through a gravel road and 15 minute hike could lead to the Roof of Qeshm. When arrived at the main plateau, the remnants of an ancient village (Kalat-Koshtaran) may be observed where relics of walls, “Aghol” and “Anbar” still remain. In addition, pieces of pottery that probably date back to the Islamic period may be found among the ruins. It is worth noting that limestone was used in forming these man-made structures which has probably been extracted from the upper layers of the plateau. The presence of a traditional water reservoir (Ab-anbar) with a roof shows that in recent years the villagers (from Tabl and Salakh) may have been using the area more as a picnic ground during the hot season.
The Roof of Qeshm offers a unique opportunity to observe beautiful landscapes of the northern coastline, the Mangrove forest, and the azure blue waters of the Persian Gulf as well as the mainland, encouraging the visitor to take a moment to think and breathe in fresh air, and enjoy the clear sky, also suitable for astronomy.
