Iran aims for 1,000 museums to promote cultural heritage: Deputy minister
In a recent press conference, Ali Darabi, the Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, outlined the government’s plan to increase the number of museums in Iran from 824 to 1,000 as part of the Seventh Development Plan.
Held on Sunday, February 2, at the Fajr Hall of the ministry, the session highlighted various ongoing projects and initiatives within the cultural sector, IRNA reported.
Darabi announced that there are currently 26 museums under construction across the country, comprising 12 regional and 14 provincial museums. “Some of these museums have been in the pipeline for over three decades,” he noted, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to expedite their completion as part of
prioritized collaborative projects.
As part of the ongoing efforts, the deputy minister revealed that six new museums and exhibition halls are set to open during the celebrations to commemorate the anniversary of Islamic Revolution.
He also mentioned the recent approval of a technical and executive regulation for historical buildings by the Cabinet, which he described as a significant step forward for engineering standards in heritage conservation.
Plus, Darabi reported that a historical fabric mapping initiative has been successfully implemented in 197 cities, with only four cities remaining. “This is one of our major achievements in the heritage sector,” he added. He also acknowledged the need for revisiting regulations regarding the preservation of historical sites.
On the issue of cultural heritage repatriation, Darabi stated that over 8,000 historical artifacts have been returned to Iran, with more than nine additional cases currently in progress.
He highlighted the challenges faced by protection forces in Ilam, who have been threatened by smuggling groups. He emphasized the urgent need for better compensation for personnel, indicating that staff salaries have been historically low. “Following an agreement with the Planning and Budget Organization, we are committed to ensuring timely salary disbursements,” he assured.
This year, from January 31 to February 10, 55 restoration projects will be inaugurated across 15 provinces. Alongside these developments, a series of cultural events will take place, including 69 exhibitions, 27 conferences, 15 training workshops, and 17 unveiling ceremonies focused on museums.
Reflecting on the progress made since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Darabi noted that the number of museums has grown from 35 to the current 824, alongside significant efforts in restoration and registration of historical artifacts. A budget of $3.57 million has been allocated for restoration work, with $238,000 available as cash reserves from the ministry, while the remainder will be funded by private benefactors.
In line with ongoing registration efforts, Darabi revealed that the historical heritage of Rey is on the verge of global recognition, and an impressive album showcasing world-registered artifacts is in the works.
Addressing concerns over recently auctioned historical coins, Darabi clarified that those sold were counterfeit, underscoring the need for vigilance against exploitation in the cultural heritage sector.