TEHRAN – Iran’s Fars province, home to ancient Akemenid sites, including Persepolis and Pasargadae, recorded visits of 7.4 million tourists last year, officials said as the government has stepped up efforts to position the region as a major cultural tourism hub.
The Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts has identified Firth as a development priority, citing the possibility of attracting both foreign and domestic visitors. The state once known as Persis includes UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Pasargada, Cyrus the Great, Persepolis, Sassanido archaeological landscapes in the Fars region, and other cultural gems such as Naxuerostam.
Ministry director Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri said the government is trying to balance historic preservation with the growth of modern tourism. “We are dedicated to providing the best conditions for tourists and creating an atmosphere that is beneficial to their experience,” he said on a recent visit to Fars.
“Our goal is to establish a sustainable tourism industry that not only welcomes millions of foreign visitors, but also benefits the community and respects its heritage.”
Tourist arrivals to Fars said it had increased by 48% in Farbadin, the first month of Iran’s calendar year (March to April 2025). During Nowruz Holidays, Pasargadae recorded 14,242 visitors. Officials predict that by 2025 the state will be able to host between 9-10 million foreign tourists. This is driven by marketing, infrastructure upgrades and increased regional cooperation.
Shiraz, a regional capital known for its gardens and poets, remains a focus for cultural travelers. Sites such as Hafez Tomb, Sadi Tomb, Elam Garden and Atija Memosk continue to attract large numbers of visitors along with Persepolis and Pasargadae.
Officials said the new investment will focus on improving transportation links, tourist facilities and site preservation.
The ministry said it is promoting Persian cuisine, traditional crafts and local festivals as part of its strategy to provide tourism and support the livelihood of the community.
Fars, considered the cradle of the Achemenid Empire, is at the heart of Iran’s cultural diplomatic efforts, officials said. They added that the growth of heritage tourism in the state is expected to contribute to both economic development and the preservation of the country’s historic identity.
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