Significance of resumption of excavations at Konar Sandal Hill
The archaeological excavations that have resumed after a 16-year hiatus at the Konar Sandal Hill in Jiroft are of great significance to Iran’s cultural heritage and should be viewed from a national perspective.
Mostafa Dehpahlavan, head of the Cultural Heritage Research Institute at the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, highlighted during his visit to the site that Jiroft’s potential in the realm of cultural heritage is so substantial that local communities can greatly benefit and actively engage in its protection and preservation. Therefore, it is essential to leverage the capabilities of non-governmental organizations and local entities and involve them in administrative processes, IRNA wrote.
He noted that these excavations, led by Seyyed Mansour Seyyed Sajadi — one of our country’s renowned and dedicated archaeologists — have resumed thanks to the continued efforts of the director of the Cultural Heritage Department of Kerman Province.
Dehpahlavan emphasized that the Research Institute is committed to ensuring the ongoing excavations at this remarkable and unique site, alongside its protection and restoration, while promoting its tourism potential. “We must join hands to ensure that excavations and cultural and historical studies of the ancient sites in Jiroft do not cease or suspend again.”
He also mentioned that very few museums around the world lack artifacts from Jiroft. A site with such global prominence requires sustained efforts and collaboration from all sectors of the country, including government support, to ensure that related research continues rather than halting after each resumption.
He stated that the foundation and potential of archaeology foster knowledge and awareness, contributing to enhanced community heritage literacy. Cultural heritage should be regarded as a cornerstone of national security, influencing domestic and foreign policy. Iran’s civilizational heritage can foster soft power and influence while serving as a deterrent.
Dehpahlavan continued that the ancient site of Konar Sandal and Jiroft represents a significant cultural and historical resource for the country — one that must be thoroughly excavated, protected, and promoted. This allows us to harness its material and spiritual potential for future generations.
He said that Jiroft can serve as an exemplary model of collaboration among provincial and local authorities in protecting historical and cultural assets, as there is a collective agreement on its importance and value.
“We must acknowledge that alongside urban development and national prosperity, we should not permit the destruction of our civilizational and national heritage. Cultural heritage must form the foundation of sustainable and resilient development,” he concluded.