Natanz facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Natanz Persian: نطنز
City
Shrine Complex of Abd al Samad, built in 1304
Natanz Location in Iran
Country	Iran
Province	Isfahan
County	Natanz
District	Central
Population  (2016)
• Total	44,551
Time zone	UTC+3:30 (IRST)

Natanz (Persian: نطنز) is a city in Iran. It is located in the Isfahan province, about 70 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Kashan. Natanz is the main city in its county and district.

People and Population in Natanz

How Many People Live in Natanz?

Natanz has grown over the years. In 2006, about 12,060 people lived there. By 2011, the population grew slightly to 12,281 people. The most recent count in 2016 showed that 14,122 people called Natanz home.

Natanz Nuclear Facility

What is the Natanz Nuclear Facility?

Natanz is known for being home to an important part of Iran's nuclear program. This facility is where uranium enrichment takes place. It is located about 33 kilometers (20 miles) northwest of the city.

The facility uses many machines called gas centrifuges. These centrifuges help to enrich uranium. Uranium enrichment is a process that makes uranium suitable for use in nuclear power plants.

History of Enrichment Activities

Uranium enrichment at Natanz was paused in 2004 during talks with European countries. However, Iran announced in 2006 that it would restart the process. By 2007, more centrifuges were installed.

In 2010, Iran informed the IAEA that future enrichment would happen at Natanz. In 2013, officials stated that 5% uranium enrichment was continuing. They also mentioned 20% enrichment for specific needs.

The IAEA regularly inspects the Natanz site. This was part of an agreement made in 2013 with several world powers. In 2021, Iran began enriching uranium again with advanced centrifuges. This was a change from a 2015 nuclear agreement.

Security Incidents at the Facility

The Natanz nuclear facility has experienced several security incidents.

Cyber Attack Incident

One major event was a sophisticated cyber attack. This attack used a special computer program called Stuxnet. The program caused problems for the centrifuges at the plant. It slowed down their operations and caused damage over time. The goal was to delay the nuclear program.

Fire and Power Outage Incidents

In July 2020, a fire and explosion happened at a centrifuge production plant in Natanz. Some officials thought it might have been caused by cyber sabotage. A group called "Cheetahs of the Homeland" claimed responsibility.

In April 2021, another incident occurred. There was a problem with the electricity network at the facility. Reports said it was a power failure. There were no injuries or radioactive leaks.

Geography and Climate of Natanz

Where is Natanz Located?

Natanz is about 120 kilometers (75 miles) northeast of Isfahan. It sits on Iran's main north-south highway. The city is 1,666 meters (5,466 feet) above sea level. The Karkas mountain chain rises above the town. Its name means "mountain of vultures."

What is the Climate Like?

The average temperature in Natanz is 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit). The city receives about 19 millimeters (0.75 inches) of rain each season.

Agriculture in Natanz

Saffron Farming

Natanz is known for its high-quality saffron. Saffron is a valuable spice that grows well in the local climate. Most of the saffron grown here is exported to other countries. Because Natanz has different climate types, saffron farming has been very successful. Some years, it has produced over 1,600 kilograms (3,500 pounds) of dry saffron.

Garden Produce

Farming is a big part of the economy in Natanz. People earn a living by growing various garden products. These include delicious pears, beets, walnuts, and pomegranates. Natanz pears are especially famous.

Historical Monuments

Natanz has important historical sites. The most famous is the shrine of Abd as-Samad. This complex includes parts built in 1304. It also has later additions and repairs. The tomb honors a Sufi leader named Sheikh Abd al-Samad. His student, Zain al-Din Mastari, built it.

Gallery

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  Anti-aircraft guns guarding Natanz nuclear facility

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  Natanz Stone Fortress

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  Natanz mosque next to the old Chenar

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  Ancient tree of Natanz

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  Portal of Abd al-Samad complex