Archaeological significance of Kermanshah Province
Kermanshah Province holds a unique and prominent position in the history of archaeological studies, particularly concerning the origins of agriculture and permanent settlement in the world, Hojjat Darabi, a faculty member in the Archaeology Department at Razi University of Kermanshah said.
Speaking in an interview with ISNA, Darabi highlighted that the first research in this area began in the late 1950s. In 1960 and 1961, an archaeological team from the University of Chicago, led by Robert Braidwood, explored several prehistoric sites and examined the plains of Kermanshah and Mahidasht within the province.
At that time, the sites of Tappeh Aasiyab and Tappeh Sarab, located near the city of Kermanshah, were the most significant prehistoric sites studied by the University of Chicago’s team. However, subsequent research over the following decades revealed that Kermanshah boasts the largest number of Neolithic archaeological sites in Iran.
According to the studies conducted at these archaeological sites, the first steps of humanity toward agriculture and settlement in the Central Zagros, including Kermanshah Province, were taken approximately 10,000 years ago. Darabi noted that research on the Ganj Dareh Mound in Harsin has identified it as the first site for the domestication and breeding of goats, with evidence of animal husbandry and plant cultivation also discovered at the Sheikh Abad mound.
He stressed that these findings indicate that Kermanshah Province’s greatest archaeological potential is linked to the Neolithic period and deserves special attention. Fortunately, in recent years, there has been a shift in the approach of the Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department of Kermanshah Province, emphasizing that archaeological activities should be targeted. However, most current activities have been limited to exploratory drilling aimed at determining boundaries and zones.
Darabi reminded us that while such activities are valuable for protecting archaeological sites, they cannot provide the same insights into past societies as excavations can. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize archaeological excavations to more thoroughly introduce the rich heritage of Kermanshah Province, particularly given the Neolithic period’s unique significance in this region.
He also addressed a common misconception surrounding archaeological excavations in historical sites. Unfortunately, some decision-makers in the field of cultural heritage believe that conducting excavations will lead to increased destruction by illegal diggers. However, it is important to recognize that all sites typically suffer from damage before any archaeological activities occur, raising concerns that they could be entirely lost.
Darabi pointed out that it is precisely through these excavations that we have gained knowledge about our past heritage, such as Bisotun and Ganj Dareh, of which we take great pride. He noted that the rate of destruction of archaeological sites is alarmingly high and is unfortunately on the rise. Therefore, we should not hesitate to proceed with excavations or use this issue as an excuse to avoid taking necessary actions.
He emphasized the need to support archaeological excavations through scientific planning and analysis, utilizing skilled specialists in the process. The best way to protect these sites is to enhance local people’s awareness of their significance, which can be achieved through public educational activities stemming from archaeological work.
Darabi expressed hope that the cultural officials of the country recognize the role and importance of cultural heritage as a unifying force within society, thereby giving it the attention it deserves.