کتاب Pahlevani and zoorkhaneh rituals اثر علیرضا غلامی نشر انتشارات حتمی

Zurkhaneh is the most ancient club and sports venue in the world. Some researchers in history and culture believe that Zurkhaneh rituals date back to more than 3,000 years ago. However, the precise origin of this sport is not known. Zurkhanehs are highly similar to Mithraism Temples. Zurkhaneh is built lower than the ground’s surface, while Mithraism temples were built on the banks or in vicinity of water currents. In Zurkhaneh, the bell is rung to mark the beginning and the end of rituals or to announce the arrival of a champion. In Mithraism temples, bells were tolled concurrent with the display of the picture of Mithra (The symbol of the sun) in the end, or in the beginning of ceremonies, and/or upon entry of major figures.