TEHRAN -- The first ever geographical atlas of the Persian Gulf was officially unveiled here on Wednesday, marking a significant scholarly milestone in documenting the maritime heritage of the region.
Hamidreza Soleimani, managing director of the Dafeeneh Museums Institute, said the atlas represents the “oldest maritime culture in the world.” 
The volume includes 35 historical maps created by European geographers over the past four centuries.
 “This book serves as a critical academic reference and has been printed for the first time in book form. Given the sensitivity and historical weight of the subject, all maps included were carefully verified with relevant authorities and institutions,” Soleimani said. 
The Iranian Parliament’s Research Center, the Armed Forces Geographical Organization, and departments within the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs collaborated in compiling and publishing the atlas. 
Soleimani announced future plans for expanding the project, revealing that additional volumes will be published based on available historical sources.
Furthermore, 50 historical maps of the Persian Gulf and the three disputed islands will soon be on public display at the Dafeeneh Museum which hosted the ceremony on Wednesday. 
The ceremony was held to coincide with the Persian Gulf National Day, which is observed annually.
The occasion commemorates the region’s history, name, and significance. It also marks the historic 1622 victory when the Safavid Empire expelled Portuguese forces from the strategic Strait of Hormuz.