Tehran – New evidence shows the refined history of iron production intertwined with idyllic life in a well-known cultural landscape.
Recent archaeological investigations in the cultural landscape of Mazuure in northern Iran shed new light on the historical and economic significance of the region and revealed preliminary evidence of extensive ancient metal maiting operations.
According to Dr. Kourosh Mohammadkhani, an archaeologist at Shahid Beheshti University, the research team adopted magnetic methods at several important sites, including Khan Baji-Sara, Melarzan, Vizeh Khuni-Sar and Gilvand Rud. The work, carried out over several months under the supervision of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, identified magnetic anomalies that strongly indicate the numerous ancient furnaces used in metal smelting.
One of the most notable findings is the distinct overlap between the characteristics of these underground industries and the abandoned idyllic settlements. For example, on the Vizeh Khuni-Sar site adjacent to such a settlement, the team detected a notable magnetic anomaly of approximately 35 x 17 meters. The magnetic field strength there was measured at approximately +50 nanoteslas in the positive range and at –25 nanoteslas in the negative range.
Dr. Mohammadkhani emphasized that this data strongly suggests the existence of multiple ancient furnaces, and these sites have become highly promising candidates for future excavations aimed at revealing ancient metallurgical structures. Other sites have also found supportive evidence, such as Gillband Lud, which appears to be the main center of such activities. There is also Khan Baji Sarah, which was unearthed by a joint Iranian-China team.
These discoveries deepen the importance of Masoure, a region already renowned for its unique, staged architecture and its status as one of Iran’s most valuable historical and natural heritage sites. Located in the Alborz Highlands within the Hikane forest, Mazuure is now understood to be more than a picturesque historic settlement. For centuries it served as a vibrant centre for diverse economic activities, including idyllicism, historical iron production, and regional trade. Building on a decade of archaeological research that discovered a unique multi-stage furnace, recent discoveries reveal a deeply interconnected relationship between idyllic life and the metallurgical industry in the region throughout various historical periods.
The scenic village of Mazuure is famous for its Lego-shaped land homes built on other rooftops.
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