TEHRAN -- Rising 4,811 meters above the plains of northwestern Iran, Sabalan Mountain also historically known as Savalan is an imposing natural landmark with deep cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance. 
Now, local officials in Ardabil Province are advancing efforts to have this volcanic giant designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its importance not only as a geological wonder but also as a living cultural landscape.
According to Ebrahim Emami, the deputy governor for political and security affairs in Ardabil, the mountain’s nomination is driven by the rich diversity that defines Sabalan: its unique alpine environment, the distinctive architecture of surrounding villages, winding rivers and valleys, and the vibrant nomadic communities that have lived in harmony with this landscape for centuries.
Sabalan’s story is inseparable from its people. The mountain has long been revered as a sacred site, believed by many to be connected to Zoroaster, the ancient Persian prophet. This spiritual heritage has helped maintain Sabalan’s place in local culture, where even today it is common for residents and pastoral nomads to swear oaths by the mountain, reflecting a deep respect that transcends generations.
The mountain also plays a critical role in the region’s ecology. Its slopes are dotted with over a hundred hot springs, fed by the ancient volcanic activity that shaped the region. These natural thermal waters, along with the snowy peaks, attract visitors for both wellness and winter sports, including the popular Alvar ski resort. At the summit, a crater lake forms seasonally, a small but dramatic feature illustrating the mountain’s volcanic origins.
A notable aspect of the current effort is the push to restore the mountain’s original name, “Savalan,” which was changed to “Sabalan” during the Pahlavi era. This movement highlights the importance of cultural identity and historical accuracy in the recognition process.
If successful, Sabalan will become Ardabil’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site, following the Sheikh Safi al-Din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble, a 16th-century complex that is a masterpiece of Safavid architecture and religious history.
The UNESCO nomination is a step toward preserving Sabalan’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance.