TEHRAN — Archaeologists are set to begin a third phase of excavations at the Kamar Zarrin archaeological site in the historic center of Isfahan as part of a project to expand the area’s open-air museum and preserve newly uncovered remains near the city’s UNESCO-listed Jameh Mosque.
Rouhollah Seyedolasghari, deputy director of cultural heritage at Isfahan’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department, said the new excavations are expected to begin within the next two months following planning and coordination among the relevant authorities.
According to Seyedolasghari, the project aims to extend the existing Kamar Zarrin site museum by incorporating a second excavation area, creating a larger archaeological and cultural complex adjacent to Isfahan’s historic urban core.
He said the expanded site is intended to help restore the historic landscape surrounding the Jameh Mosque while providing additional opportunities for heritage preservation, tourism and public education. Officials also expect the third excavation phase to yield further archaeological discoveries because of the area’s historical significance.
The Kamar Zarrin project began after construction work on a pedestrian passage in 2023 exposed the remains of historic architectural structures, prompting authorities to suspend development and launch archaeological investigations.
Excavations during the first season uncovered the remains of
 a decorated pre-Mongol water structure, a pottery kiln, architectural remains dating to the late Islamic period, stone walls, brick-paved surfaces believed to date to the Seljuk era, and part of a historic thoroughfare.
A second excavation season, conducted opposite Kamar Zarrin Mosque last year, revealed additional architectural remains along with artifacts including lustreware tiles from the Islamic period, distinctive ceramics and historic coins.
Local authorities say the third phase has been made possible following the municipal acquisition of properties within the project area, allowing archaeologists to continue investigations while advancing plans to develop the expanded site museum.