Shahrband

Shahrband (شهربند) is a Persian word referring to a port master or harbor master. The term historically denoted an official in charge of overseeing a city's port or harbor, managing maritime traffic, collecting duties and taxes on goods entering and leaving the port, and generally ensuring the smooth operation and security of the maritime activities within their jurisdiction. The role of a shahrband encompassed aspects of customs official, harbor administrator, and sometimes even maritime judge, depending on the specific context and historical period. The word itself combines "Shahr" (شهر), meaning city, and "band" (بند), referring to a port or harbor. Therefore, Shahrband literally translates to "city's port." The term has been used across various Persian-speaking regions and in contexts influenced by Persian administrative traditions.