TEHRAN – Illegal treasure hunting has increased at several archaeological sites in Iran’s Fars province since the outbreak of war on February 28, local cultural heritage activists said on Sunday.
Siavash Arya, a researcher and advocate for the protection of cultural heritage in Fars, told ISNA that he conducted field trips to several districts, including Firzabad, Farashband, Darab and Shiraz, in the weeks before the war began. Arya pointed out that the ruins are in poor condition due to extensive unauthorized excavations carried out by individuals seeking mythical treasures.
“Unfortunately, treasure hunters are causing serious damage in these areas, especially at historical sites such as the Sasanian fire temples of Farashband and the ancient ruins of Darab,” Alia said. “The most alarming discovery was at Qasr Abu Nassar in Shiraz, where destruction has spread.”
Aliya was unable to provide photographic evidence due to internet failure, but stressed that unauthorized excavations at Qasr Abu Nassar have been going on for two to three years. These efforts have recently stepped up, with holes that were 40 to 50 centimeters deep last year to now several meters deep.
Activists said they had informed local heritage authorities of the situation and called for immediate action. “I have detailed these activities to the state Department of Cultural Heritage and its sub-departments for further investigation,” he said.
Aria stressed that in turbulent times, such as conflicts or natural disasters, when opportunistic treasure hunters may target historical sites, the responsibility of cultural heritage activists and experts becomes even more important. “We must be vigilant and act proactively to protect our national heritage and fulfill our social responsibilities,” Arya said.
The activist concluded by calling for greater awareness and collective efforts to protect the country’s irreplaceable cultural monuments from further destruction.
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