7 Most Famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran
Iran has 28 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as of September 2024. In overall 26 of which are cultural hearitage sites and 2 are natural sites. The first Iranian sites registered with UNESCO were Persepolis and Chogha Zanbil, which were registered in 1979. The latest registered sites are Hegmataneh registered in July 2024 and the Persian Caravanserai, registered in September 2023 and the Cultural Landscape of Hawraman/Uramanat, registered in June 2021.
Iran has proudly secured its place among the top 10 countries with the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a remarkable achievement that highlights its rich cultural and natural heritage. With all recognized sites, Iran stands as a testament to millennia of history, from the grandeur of the ancient Persian Empire to the artistic brilliance of the Islamic Golden Age. Iconic landmarks like Persepolis, Naqsh-e Jahan Square, and the Lut Desert showcase the country’s unique blend of architectural mastery, historical significance, and breathtaking natural beauty. This recognition not only underscores Iran’s importance as a global heritage destination but also invites travelers and history enthusiasts to explore its unparalleled treasures. For adventurers seeking to connect with the roots of human civilization, Iran is a must-visit destination that continues to inspire awe and admiration.
These 28 Iranian UNESCO sites are located throughout Iran, 7 of which are situated along the Iran Classic Tourism route. The Iran Classic route crosses through 5 main tourist destinations which are Tehran, Kashan, Esfahan, Yazd, and Shiraz. Most travelers start this route in Tehran as the majority of international flights land in the capital, although a minority of visitors commence their trip from Shiraz. There are also a few other international airports in Iran as well as the option of joining up from areas along Iran’s borders which may be suitable for some travelers. Most of Iran’s first-timers usually like to visit the main travel destinations located along Iran’s Classic route.
Below is a list of the most famous UNESCO sites on the Classic route in Iran :
1. Golestan Palace, (2013), Tehran
2. Jame Mosque, (2012), Esfahan (Masjed-e Jame)
3. Naqsh-e Jahan Square, (1979), Esfahan (Meidan Emam)
4. The Historic City of Yazd, (2017)
5. Pasargadae, (2004), Sa’adat Shahr in Fars province, (140 km north of Shiraz)
6. Persepolis, (1979), Marvdasht in Fars province, (60 km north of Shiraz)
7. The Persian Gardens (2011): Ancient Garden of Pasargadae (140 km north of Shiraz), Bagh-e Eram (Shiraz), Bagh-e Chehel Sotun (Esfahan), Bagh-e Fin (Kashan), Bagh-e Dolat Abad (Yazd)
- UNESCO registered 9 different Persian Gardens scattered throughout the country. Five of these gardens are on the Classic Route as mentioned in the last item on the above list.
- During your classic journey, you may pass by the Persian Caravanserais (UNESCO-listed Iranian caravanserais) on your way, which are very attractive to visit.
IRAN Tentative UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Iran embraces another 57 sites which are not yet registered but are on UNESCO’s waiting list. Alongside the above-mentioned sites, there are another 10 sites that are on the list of UNESCO Tentative sites and are present on the Classic Route.
1. Nasqsh-e Rostam and Naqsh-e Rajab, (1997), Marvdasht, Shiraz in Fars province
2. Tape Sialk, (1997), Kashan
3. Persepolis and other relevant ruins, (2007), Marvdasht, Shiraz in Fars province
4. The Historical-Cultural Axis of Fin, Sialk, Kashan, (2007), Kashan
5. The Historical City of Maybod, (2007), Yazd province
6. The Historical Village of Abyaneh, (2007), Esfahan province
7. Silk Route, (also known as Silk Road), (2008), located in different regions of Iran
8. The Zandiyeh Ensemble of Fars Province, (2008), Shiraz
9. The Persian House in Central plateau of Iran, (2017), located in Iran’s various cities
10. Monastery of St. Amenaprkich, (New Julfa Vank), (2019), Shiraz
Iran’s principal attractions and its numerous places to visit are not limited to the above sites. There are countless other fascinating attractions in the 5 tourist cities mentioned above. The bazaars in these cities are most captivating and well worth a visit. Moreover, if you are interested in the arts and culture, there are a lot of exceptional places in the Classic route which are a must-see and are not listed in your guidebook. Furthermore, if you check the Persian calendar, there are plenty of historical events like Nowruz, Sizdah Bedar, Chaharshanbeh Suri, Yalda Night, and Jashne Sadeh plus a few religious events which are so exciting for visitors to observe such as Ashoora. Depending on where you are on your planned trip, you will see such a variety of amazingly different Iranian customs during these occasions, which are not only mesmerizing but may well become an unforgettable memory.
If you would like to have the Best Iran Tour, visit those above sites in spring when the Classic Iran route has best climate and temperature for traveling. Choose May if you would like to combine your cultural trip with a short hike in the mountain regions of Alborz and Zagros.
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