TEHRAN – A new phase of archaeological excavation will begin in the core conservation zone of Persepolis in southern Iran to determine the exact boundaries of the historic site, the site director said on Saturday.
Mohammad Javad Jafari, head of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Persepolis, said the excavations began in early September to identify the scope of the monument and support preservation and management plans.
“Persepolis’ first-degree protection zone covers over 6,000 hectares, where nearly 110 archaeological sites have been identified, of which 70 have been listed on the National Heritage List,” Jafari explained.
He said the site includes prehistoric mounds, caves, rock shelters, cemeteries and mines from prehistoric to later historic periods.
Three excavation projects are underway. Tar led by Fazlorahabibi – Cha led by Robahi and Ahmadaria Sadi – Ejangal and Tar Egavdal led by Abzar Tabakol. They are funded by the World Heritage Base in Persepolis, which has permission from the Institute for Cultural Heritage and Tourism, Jafari said.
“These excavations are essential to define the exact boundaries of the monument, allowing both conservation and tourism development plans to be carried out with minimal damage to the cultural heritage,” he added.
Jafari noted that other important archaeological areas, including Bakun A and B, Tarè Shoga and Tarè-e Jari, located in the secondary and tertiary protected areas of Persepolis, will also be prioritized for future boundary research.
He said annual and long-term budgets were needed to protect the archaeological resources of Persepolis and its surrounding areas, and sought sustainable funding.
Earlier this month, Jafari announced that the comprehensive management and conservation plan for Persepolis is developing amid growing concerns from experts regarding the erosion of its ancient stone rescue. “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.
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.”
“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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