TEHRAN -- In a significant archaeological breakthrough, portions of the Ilkhanid royal cemetery have been uncovered near the iconic Soltaniyeh Dome, according to Abolfazl Aali, head of the excavation team and director of the Soltaniyeh World Heritage Site.
The ongoing excavations, conducted within the site known as “Abwab al-Birr,” have revealed sections of an underground tomb adjacent to the Soltaniyeh Dome. Preliminary assessments, supported by historical texts and contextual evidence, suggest that the burial site dates back to the Ilkhanid period and likely belonged to members of the Mongol Ilkhanid royal family.
The discovery of this royal necropolis is particularly momentous given its proximity to the dome constructed by Sultan Muhammad Khodabandeh in the 8th century AH (14th century CE), which remains the largest brick dome in the world and a masterpiece of Ilkhanid architecture.
Historical sources indicate that the cemetery served as the final resting place for prominent royal figures, including one of the wives and the eldest son of Öljaitü, the eighth Ilkhan ruler. Such necropolises offer invaluable insights into the social hierarchy and status distinctions within Ilkhanid society.
Aali emphasized the broader significance of the find: “Royal cemeteries provide critical data on historical customs, cultural practices, and social structures. The funerary remains, accompanying artifacts, architectural features, and inscriptions unearthed here will enrich our understanding of Ilkhanid political and cultural life.”
The uncovered tomb complex includes skeletal remains, luxury goods, and intricate architectural elements, all of which promise to shed light on funerary rites and religious beliefs of the era. According to the excavation director, the style of burial and the nature of grave goods could reveal nuanced perspectives on Ilkhanid spiritual and ceremonial practices.
Excavations in the southwestern section of the Soltaniyeh citadel began in early Mordad (July) and are scheduled to continue through the end of Shahrivar (September). The current discoveries underscore the archaeological potential of this UNESCO World Heritage site and open new avenues for research into Ilkhanid Iran.