TEHRAN -- About 46 years ago, Chogha Zanbil made history as Iran’s first site to be inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Today, this ancient Elamite marvel continues to captivate visitors, even as it faces modern-day challenges like limited funding, nearby urban development, and the impacts of climate change.
Under the passionate leadership of Atefeh Rashnoei, the director of the Chogha Zanbil and Haft Tappeh World Heritage Site, a year of exciting progress has unfolded—bringing new life to these extraordinary archaeological treasures.
At Chogha Zanbil, the focus has been on preserving the iconic mud-brick ziggurat and its surrounding walls, reinforcing their ancient adobe and brick foundations while carefully managing water drainage to protect the site from natural wear. Meanwhile, at nearby Haft Tappeh, efforts have centered on safeguarding Elamite architectural remains, including ancient palaces and tombs. Local materials and cutting-edge technology combine to keep these relics standing strong for generations to come.
One of the year’s biggest wins? Officially securing ownership documentation for 540 hectares of Chogha Zanbil’s grounds—a major step toward protecting the entire site.
Culture lovers will also appreciate the restoration of over a hundred stunning bronze artifacts from Haft Tappeh’s museum collection, now beautifully preserved and meticulously cataloged for visitors and scholars alike.
For those intrigued by the mysteries beneath the surface, ongoing geophysical surveys are uncovering hidden structures of the ancient city of Dur Untash, shedding fresh light on Elamite civilization. Plus, collaborative research projects and university partnerships are fueling new discoveries and enriching the story behind these incredible ruins.
Visitors can now enjoy improved pathways, clearer signage, and safer routes, making exploration smoother and more immersive. Educational tours and workshops for guides, as well as special student excursions, invite travelers of all ages to engage deeply with the heritage and history.
But it’s not just about the monuments—local communities are key partners in this journey. Craft workshops, women’s artisan training, and vibrant festivals celebrating Elamite culture bring the region’s living traditions into focus, weaving heritage into everyday life and supporting sustainable development.
With threats from climate and urban growth looming, the site has boosted emergency preparedness with detailed response plans and community training to protect these priceless sites from unpredictable events.
Looking ahead, the vision is bold: to make Chogha Zanbil and Haft Tappeh shining examples of sustainable heritage management in the region, blending research, preservation, education, and tourism into a vibrant future.