UNESCO Cultural Heritage Archives

Discover Iran’s Top Award-Winning Villages: Shafiabad, Kandelus and Soheili

In a proud moment for Iran’s diverse and ever-evolving tourism landscape, three remarkable villages Shafiabad in Kerman Province, Kandelus in Mazandaran, and Soheili on Qeshm Island in Hormozgan have been honored among the Best Tourism Villages of 2025 by the UNESCO World Tourism Organization. This international recognition celebrates not only the beauty of these destinations but also Iran’s ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and community-based travel. From golden deserts to emerald forests and turquoise coasts, Iran continues to tell stories of people who transform resilience, tradition, and creativity into unforgettable experiences. Shafiabad, Kerman – The Desert Bloom At the edge of the mesmerizing Lut Desert lies Shafiabad, a living example of renewal and empowerment led by local women. Once facing the harsh challenges of desert life, the community came together to build women’s cooperatives that revived traditional crafts, restored ancient underground water channels known as Qanats, and brought life back to the village’s long-forgotten orchards. Travelers can stay in eco-lodges built with traditional desert design, join craft-making workshops, and experience the growing excitement of desert sports such as the Lut World Desert Marathon. Kandelus, Mazandaran – Cultural Heritage in the Heart of the Forest Nestled in the Alborz Mountains and surrounded by the lush Hyrcanian Forests, Kandelus is a sanctuary of Iranian culture and history. With a heritage that stretches back over 4,000 years, its people have preserved their knowledge, crafts, and customs through generations. They have created a sustainable economy rooted in traditional art, herbal medicine, and respect for nature. Visitors to Kandelus can explore its museum, walk through cobbled alleys lined with historic homes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the ancient forests that surround the village. Soheili, Hormozgan (Qeshm Island) – Green Tourism by the Persian Gulf On the sunlit shores of the Persian Gulf, Soheili

In a proud moment for Iran’s diverse and ever-evolving tourism landscape, three remarkable villages Shafiabad in Kerman Province, Kandelus in Mazandaran, and Soheili on Qeshm Island in Hormozgan have been honored among the Best Tourism Villages of 2025 by the UNESCO World Tourism Organization. This international recognition celebrates not only the beauty of these destinations

7 Most Famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Iran Iran has 29 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as of July 2025. In overall 27 of which are cultural heritage 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

Iran and the World’s Heritage Leaders

September 30, 2025 October 24, 2025
Farnaz
UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Iran Cultural UNESCO sites, Iran Heritage, Iran UNESCO, IRAN UNESCO site, IRAN UNESCO sites, Iran World Heritage Sites, UNESCO

Countries with the Most UNESCO World Heritage Sites Are you curious about which countries are home to the most UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Here’s a guide to the top 10 nations rich in cultural and natural wonders. If you’re seeking remarkable destinations to explore, focusing on UNESCO World Heritage Sites is a fantastic idea, as

Persepolis

August 10, 2025 October 24, 2025
Farnaz
Attractions, UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Iran UNESCO, Iran World Heritage, Persepolis, Persepolis complex, Persepolis Iran, Persepolis SHiraz, Takht-e Jamshid

Persepolis: The Majestic Ruins of the Persian Empire Discover the Glory of Persepolis, Iran’s Timeless Treasure Persepolis, one of the most awe-inspiring historical sites in the world, is an essential stop for travelers visiting Iran. As the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire, Persepolis represents the height of Persian art, culture, and power. Recognized

Bazaar of Tabriz

July 25, 2025 July 25, 2025
Mohammad
Attractions, UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Bazaar Tabriz, Bazzar of Tabriz, Tabriz Bazaar Heritage Site, Tabriz UNESCO, Tabriz UNESCO World Heritage

Tabriz Grand Bazaar A Historic Trade Hub in Iran The Tabriz Grand Bazaar, one of Iran’s most beautiful Bazaar and one of the largest and oldest covered bazaars in the world, is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring northwest Iran. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this centuries-old trading center has been a vital

The Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley

July 15, 2025 July 25, 2025
Raheleh
Culture & History, UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Iran New UNESCO site, Iran world heritage site, Khorramabad, Khorramabad Valley, Khorramabad Valley UNESCO

Historical bridge Khorramabad UNESCO site Iran

The Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley Iran’s Newest UNESCO World Heritage Site Introduction In July 2025, the Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley were inscribed in UNESCO as the 29th UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iran, marking another major achievement in recognizing the country’s rich and ancient heritage. Situated in Lorestan province, in western Iran, this valley is a treasure trove of archaeological significance, representing over 60,000 years of human history. Where is Khorramabad Valley? The Khorramabad Valley lies in the Zagros Mountains of Lorestan province, a region known for its lush landscapes, caves, and early human settlements. The valley includes sites that span from the Lower Paleolithic to the Iron Age, making it one of the most continuous records of prehistoric life in the Middle East. What Makes the Site So Important? The valley contains 12 archaeological sites, including major cave shelters such as Kaldar Cave, Yafteh Cave, and Ghamari Cave, where evidence of human occupation from over 40,000 years ago has been uncovered. These sites have yielded tools, ornaments, bones, and evidence of some of the earliest known Neanderthal and early modern human activity in the Iranian plateau. UNESCO describes the site as having “exceptional evidence of the development of human culture, spirituality, and technology during prehistory.” It provides a unique window into the transition from hunter-gatherer societies to early agricultural life. Why Visit the Khorramabad Valley? Cultural Depth: Explore ancient caves that once sheltered prehistoric humans. Natural Beauty: The valley is surrounded by forests, mountains, and rivers—perfect for adventure and nature lovers. Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unlike Iran’s more touristic destinations, this site offers a quiet and immersive experience into both nature and ancient history. Access to Lorestan Culture: The area is also home to Lur tribes, known for their distinctive culture, music, and hospitality.

The Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley Iran’s Newest UNESCO World Heritage Site Introduction In July 2025, the Prehistoric Sites of the Khorramabad Valley were inscribed in UNESCO as the 29th UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iran, marking another major achievement in recognizing the country’s rich and ancient heritage. Situated in Lorestan province, in

Iran UNESCO World Heritage Sites List

July 14, 2025 October 24, 2025
Farnaz
Attractions, Culture & History, Natural Heritage (UNESCO), UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Iran UNESCO, IRAN UNESCO sites, Iran UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Iranian UNESCO, UNESCO IRAN

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Iran Iran, a land rich in history and culture, boasts 29 UNESCO World Heritage Sites as of July 2025, making it one of the top countries globally for such recognized sites. From all 29 registered sites, 27 of which are cultural and 2 are natural heritage sites. These

Hegmataneh: Iran’s Newest UNESCO site

July 27, 2024 March 25, 2025
Asma
News, UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Hamadan, Hegmataneh, Hegmataneh UNESCO site, Hegmataneh UNESCO world heritage site, Iran New UNESCO, Iran UNESCO, UNESCO IRAN

Hegmataneh: Iran's Newest UNESCO World Heritage Site Hegmataneh Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 46th Session in New Delhi We are thrilled to announce that Hegmataneh has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site during the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. This significant session, held in New Delhi, India, from July 21-31, 2024, has brought together over 2,500 delegates from around the world, including state representatives, diplomats, heritage experts, scholars, and researchers from 195 countries. 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 28 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. A Historic Session The 46th session of the World Heritage Committee is a momentous event, with representatives from 21 States Parties to the World Heritage Convention (1972) participating. These members were elected by the General Assembly of UNESCO during its 24th session in November 2023. The current committee includes Argentina, Belgium, Bulgaria, Greece, India, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Lebanon, Mexico, Qatar, Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Türkiye, Ukraine, Vietnam, and Zambia. Hegmataneh: A Historical Jewel Hegmataneh, known as Ecbatana in Western sources, is renowned for its historical significance as the site where the Median Dynasty was founded. Following the Medes, it also served as the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Throughout the Seleucid, Parthian, Sassanid, and Islamic eras, Hegmataneh remained an important and influential city. Located in the suburban area of modern Hamadan, Hegmataneh covers 50 acres and holds immense archaeological value. This ancient city has layers of history

Hegmataneh: Iran’s Newest UNESCO World Heritage Site Hegmataneh Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the 46th Session in New Delhi We are thrilled to announce that Hegmataneh has been officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site during the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. This significant session, held in New

Persian Caravanserai

June 29, 2024 March 25, 2025
Asma
UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Caravanserai, Caravanserai Map, Caravanseray, Iran Caravanserai, Iran Tourist Highlights, IRAN UNESCO site, Iranian Caravanserais, Iranian UNESCO, Persian Caravanserai

Persian Caravanserai Iran’s UNESCO world heritage site Introduction The Persian Caravanserai is one of the recent Iranian UNESCO world heritage sites to be inscribed on the new list of world heritage sites on September 2023. Iran now has 27 UNESCO-listed historical sites, including 54 Iranian Caravanserais located all over the country. Iran belongs on the

Persian Qanat

June 15, 2024 May 23, 2025
Raheleh
Attractions, Travel Guide, UNESCO Cultural Heritage
Persian Qanat, Persian Qanat System, Qanat Systen, Qanats, Water Management System

Exploring Iran's Ingenious Water Management System: The Persian Qanat In the arid regions of Iran, where water is scarce and precious, lies a remarkable ancient invention that has sustained civilizations for millennia: the Persian Qanat. This ingenious underground water management system not only provided communities with a reliable source of water for drinking, irrigation, and agriculture but also shaped the landscape and cultural heritage of the region. Let's embark on a journey to discover the Persian Qanat and its fascinating tourist attractions. 1. Understanding the Qanat: Dating back over 3,000 years, the Persian Qanat is a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. Consisting of a series of underground tunnels, shafts, and channels, the qanat system taps into groundwater sources located at higher elevations and transports water through gravity to lower-lying areas, where it is accessed through surface wells or underground reservoirs. 2. Exploring Qanat Cities: Several cities in Iran are renowned for their ancient qanat systems, which have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Cities such as Yazd, Kashan, and Gonabad boast well-preserved qanats that not only serve as functional water sources but also offer unique tourist attractions. Visitors can explore underground qanat tunnels, visit historic qanat monuments, and learn about the cultural significance of these water management systems. 3. Visiting Qanat Museums: Many cities with significant qanat heritage feature museums dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and technology of qanats. These museums offer interactive exhibits, informative displays, and guided tours that provide insight into the ancient engineering techniques used to construct and maintain qanats. Visitors can learn about the role of qanats in Iran's agricultural development, urbanization, and cultural identity. 4. Experiencing Qanat Tourism: Qanat tourism has emerged as a popular activity for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Iran's rich cultural and historical heritage.

Exploring Iran’s Ingenious Water Management System: The Persian Qanat In the arid regions of Iran, where water is scarce and precious, lies a remarkable ancient invention that has sustained civilizations for millennia: the Persian Qanat. This ingenious underground water management system not only provided communities with a reliable source of water for drinking, irrigation, and