A Nakhl is a huge, heavy structure that consists of interwoven carved timbers. At the beginning of the month of Moharram, the Nakhl is decorated with black fabric, daggers, swords and mirrors, and carried around town by VERY strong men for the festival of Ashura.

A very interesting and detailed description on the history and use of Nakhl’s can be found on the internet: http://dreamofiran.com/nakhl-gardani-experiencing-passionate-ashura-in-yazd/