TEHRAN – A project to study, document and implement ancient rock sculpture structures in Kermansha has begun, archaeologists leading the project said Monday.
The first phase of the project is being carried out by the Karmanshire Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Bureau, and with approval from the Institute of Cultural Heritage and Tourism, archaeologist Azar Jannatimehr added.
Jannatimehr, head of the archaeology team, said this was the first comprehensive study in Iran, and that it was scientifically examining the structure of rock carvings using advanced microscopy and microfossil analysis.
“Previously known among illegal miners as ‘Joughans’, these rock structures were mistakenly believed to represent hidden treasures, but are now being explored with a scientific approach based on microscopic and microfossil analysis,” Jannatimehr said.
Archaeologists added that the structures differ in shape and size, and based on field evidence, they served a variety of purposes, including food preparation and processing, self-sufficiency activities such as ritual and symbolic functions.
Jannatimehr said this new approach will open a “new horizon” to understand, protect and manage cultural heritage and help prevent damage from unauthorized excavations.
She added that laboratory-based methods allow researchers to gain clearer insight into these cultural sites and the lives of past communities, while also providing new perspectives on the cultural and technical processes behind creation.
Iranian rock art includes archaeological petroglyphs, or rock carvings. Emoji, or painting on a rock. And the rock’s relief. In Iran, more than 50,000 prehistoric rock art has been discovered. Near Golpaegan, Iran’s largest rock art panel is 12 meters long and has over 100 petroglyphs.
Located in western Iran, Karmanshah is a region celebrated for its deep historical and cultural significance. Contrary to the background of the Zagros Mountains, Kermansha has been an important civilization center since ancient times.
The state boasts incredible archaeological treasures, including the monumental rock rescue of Tak e Bostan, Bisotun, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
morning