Remnants of a Sasanian-Era Structure Discovered in Gilan-e Gharb
WANA (Sep 25) – Recent archaeological surveys in the Sasanian site of Malatabad, located on the southern outskirts of Gilan-e Gharb city, have revealed remnants of a historical structure authorized by the Department of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism.
The project’s lead archaeologist, Naser Aminikhah, shared that these findings include the discovery of a smaller elevation, Yawe Kal 2 (meaning “short horse” in Kurdish), located 300 meters from a previously identified larger elevation called Yawe Kal. The materials used in the construction—stone, gypsum, and other components—indicate that this structure belongs to the Sasanian period.
Aminikhah noted that the presence of multiple Sasanian-era structures in the region, such as the fire temples of Hassan Zourdar and the noble palace of Sarab Mort, raises the possibility that these remains may be part of a fire temple.
The Malatabad site covers an area of eight hectares and has yet to undergo excavations, necessitating funding for further archaeological investigation. Urban expansion poses significant threats to archaeological sites across the country, and Malatabad is no exception. Its location is increasingly surrounded by urban development, risking its preservation.
Ancient Sasanian Paintings Discovered in Iran’s Goor City
WANA (Sep 23) – Archaeologists in Iran have uncovered ancient paintings, estimated to be over 1,700 years old, in the burial grounds of Goor City in Firoozabad, Fars Province. These rare artworks were discovered during excavations to preserve the site, revealing intricate designs on a Sasanian-era tomb. Mohammad Sabet Eghlidi, Director of Cultural Heritage, […]
Currently, the only remnant of this site is a two-meter-high mound covering approximately 500 square meters. This historical region could reveal more about its rich past with adequate funding and excavation efforts.
Aminikhah emphasized that no construction permits have been granted in the site’s vicinity in recent years, and strict regulations prevent excavation or heavy vehicle access until thorough assessments are completed.
The Malatabad archaeological site has been contributing to Gilan-e Gharb’s impressive inventory of 406 registered historical artefacts since the 1990s. A stone axe, dated 125,000 years ago, is among those, and currently, the oldest discovered artefact in Iran is housed in the National Museum.
Gilan-e Gharb, with a population of over 72,000, boasts a rich history of over 6,000 years, featuring numerous ancient sites, including the noble palace and the remains of a fortress from Khosrow Anushirvan’s era.
4,000 Clay Seals Discovered in Kermanshah
WANA (Sep 18) – Recent excavations at Tiline Hill, in Kermanshah’s Kozran district, led to the discovery of approximately four thousand clay seals dating back five thousand years. According to Dariush Farmani, Director General of Cultural Heritage in Kermanshah, these seals represent a significant new link in the administrative management system of the 5th […]
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