Gohar Tappeh in the context of Bronze Age
Gohar Tappeh is a prehistoric site located in the Mazandaran Province of Iran, specifically in Behshahr, about 2km northwest of Rostamkola and 30km from Sari. Nestled in a plain surrounded by forested pastures and lush mountains, Gohar Tappeh has a rich historical significance.
The story of Gohar Tappeh traces back to the inhabitants of the ancient caves in Mazandaran Province, who gradually transitioned from cave dwelling to settling in the Gohar Tappeh area. During the Neolithic era, this site was characterized by rural life, and it later became a center for urbanization during the Bronze Age.
The geological history of the area has created numerous caves, which served as dwellings. Gohar Tappeh itself is one of Iran’s notable prehistoric settlements, with its origins dating back to the Copper and Stone ages.
Positioned among ancient valleys and caves — such as Hoto Cave, Kamarband Cave, and Kumishan Cave — its importance is further enhanced. The region’s abundant water sources, forests, caves, and favorable conditions contributed to the gradual development of Gohar Tappeh, which expanded into a large city covering around fifty hectares during the Bronze Age.
Artifacts from Gohar Tappeh reveal a diverse range of items from the Copper, Stone, and Bronze ages, including pottery, bronze objects, seals, decorative items, architectural structures, and weapons such as bayonets and daggers. The site also yielded pointed pendants, necklaces, bracelets, stone beads, and clay figurines of animals and humans, as well as clay rattles and various spindle types.
The architectural remains at Gohar Tappeh indicate the use of brick and stone construction, featuring wooden horizontal beams and reed coverings. Numerous stone tools have been discovered, including blades, chips, and mortars, which were utilized for harvesting grains, cutting plants and animal meat, and grinding wheat and other grains.