TEHRAN – Iran is finalizing a comprehensive management and conservation plan for Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Fars, amid growing concerns from experts regarding the erosion of ancient stone rescues, the site’s director said.
On Tuesday, Mohammad Javad Jafari, head of the Persepolis World Heritage Site Foundation, said the master plan is under review and will be presented to the site’s Strategic Council for approval in the coming weeks.
“We recognize concerns about the erosion of stone remedies in Persepolis as a serious national issue,” Jafari said. “That’s why the previously drafted masterplans have been revised and finalized to serve as a comprehensive framework for management and conservation.”
According to Jafari, approximately 57 hectares of land around Persepolis have been partially purchased for tourism infrastructure, access management and services upgrades. He said the measure aims to prevent unregulated development and ensure long-term protection of the site and its buffer zone.
Jafari said international cooperation in conservation had started years ago with the Italian team, but Iranian experts have since taken over to continue their recovery and conservation efforts using localized materials and new technologies.
He added that the Ministry of Cultural Heritage has ordered the creation of a new independent national base at the nearby Istaful (Estaful) archaeological site that allows for systematic excavation and research.
According to Jafari, the recent preservation project includes an expansion of the Persepolis Museum, with a new 400-square-metre gallery opening this fall, as well as active workshops at the Eastern Portico of the Apadana Palace, Tripylon or Council Hall. Work will soon begin with the inscription on Haddish Palace, the 100-row hall and the Southern Terrace. “Moss removal is also underway in Northern Pottery in Apadana.”
Jafari has redeveloped the entrance shaft to Persepolis in conjunction with officials from Marvdash County, with the first phase scheduled to open before the Persian New Year in March 2026.
“Persepolis protection is both a national and global responsibility,” Jafari said. “We aim to address concerns and move forward with a scientific, coordinated and sustainable approach, but pave the way for a revival of international experts and collaborative research projects.”
Persepolis, also known as Takht-e Jamshid, was founded by Darius The Great around 518 BC as the ritual capital of Achaemenid Empire. The vast terrace and palace complex, located 60 km northeast of Shiraz, was destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330 BC. Its ruins, including the Apadana Palace and 100 rows of halls, are considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world.
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