Tehran – The city of Golgan has officially launched the second phase of a major restoration project aimed at revitalizing the historic passages of Astarabad, the ancient city now known as Golgan.
The initiative focuses on maintaining the city’s cultural identity and improving the quality of its historic urban fabric, but it seeks to promote visits to ancient cities.
Mayor Majid Taheli on Thursday announced that restoration work will expand from the historic Narbandhan Bazaar to Aftab15 Street. The project is designed to protect and enhance Golgan’s rich cultural heritage while upgrading the urban infrastructure.
“The first phase of this project, which started late last year and completed in May, has received very positive feedback from residents and heritage experts,” Taheli said. “It has significantly improved the quality of life in the historic district and promoted a stronger sense of belonging among the community.”
The current phase aims to complete connectivity between and the historic passageways, improve access and create visual and functional continuity across various parts of the old town. This connectivity is expected to play a key role in energizing the urban dynamics at Golgan’s historic core.
Taheli highlighted the broader importance of the project beyond heritage preservation, and its potential economic and social benefits. “By revitalizing the historic fabric, we will attract tourists, boost local businesses and improve the welfare of our residents,” he said.
Local governments continue their restoration work without interruption, working to ensure accurate planning and modern construction techniques while respecting traditional building standards. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate in maintaining these new public spaces to ensure the continued success of the project.
The first phase included restoration of corridors, improving street networks, creating green spaces and installing appropriate lighting. Everything is intended to enhance the appeal and safety of the region.
Located in northern Iran along a tributary of the Kare River, about 37 km from the Caspian Sea, Astharabad has a history dating back to the Akemen era. It endured centuries of tribal conflict and was renamed Golgan in the 1930s after a devastating earthquake.
Golgan and the wider Golestan province are rich in historic and natural landmarks, including the UNESCO listed Gombad y Kabas. The city is also known for the Great Wall of Golgan. Golgan is a wide range of ancient defensive barriers longer than the combination of both Hadrian and Antonin walls.
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