A new chapter in archaeological discoveries of Fars Province
The Director General of Fars Province’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts, and Tourism Organization announced the discovery of 70 historical rock carvings in the Marvdasht Plain.
Mohammad Sabet Eghlidi also mentioned that ancient hidden artifacts can be found in the cities of Marvdasht, Pasargad, and Beyza.
Regarding the latest status of archaeological excavations, he stated that recent digs have taken place in the city of Gur in Firuzabad, following the acquisition of the necessary permits. He added that a permit for excavating the Valerian Palace has also been secured, ISNA wrote.
Sabet Eghlidi described engaging in archaeological excavations as a key initiative of Fars Province’s cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of protecting historical artifacts. He noted that the Sassanid and Achaemenid Landscape spans a vast area in the province, stressing the need for advanced protection measures.
He further stated that Fars Province has been designated as a national pilot for the smart protection of historical artifacts. Under this initiative, activities will be conducted to monitor and protect the area between Persepolis and Beyza using drones.
He also discussed the significance of Postchi Hill in Shiraz, noting that, like other locations, it requires archaeological excavations; however, it is not currently a priority. “Our focus is on excavating some other places including the Valerian Palace in the city of Gur. We also aim to shift excavation efforts towards Beyza, as we intend to alter the tourism route of Persepolis,” he explained.
Sabet Eghlidi emphasized the need to utilize the province’s tourism potential, highlighting that the Sang-e Siah neighborhood in Shiraz features a mosque, a synagogue, and a church, yet we do not fully leverage this historical and tourism potential.
He announced that the process of registering the historical mosques of Fars Province for UNESCO recognition will begin, with the goal of including eight mosques in this effort: the Jaame Mosque of Neyriz, the Jaame Mosque and Stone Mosque of Darab, as well as Moshir al-Dowleh, Vakil, Nasir al-Mulk, Atiq, and the New Mosque of Shiraz.
In addition, he announced Fars Province’s participation in the 18th Tehran International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition, taking place from February 11-18. He stated that this exhibition is the most significant tourism event in the country and becomes increasingly specialized each year. “This year, we are participating in the exhibition with several approaches. One of these focuses on tourism and the economic aspects of this type of tourism,” he noted.
He added, “We aim to form a pilgrimage tourism triangle with the cities of Mashhad and Qom, and we will vigorously pursue this initiative at the exhibition.”
Furthermore, he highlighted another approach for Fars Province’s presence at the exhibition, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the region’s civilizational heritage: “This year, we will participate under the slogan ‘Fars, the Glory of Civilization and Faith.’”
Fars Province, known as the cradle of Persian civilization, boasts a rich history that includes the ancient capitals of Persepolis and Pasargadae. Its cultural heritage is reflected in its numerous historical sites, monuments, and traditions that date back thousands of years. By promoting its archaeological sites and cultural assets, Fars aims to enhance its status as a premier destination for both domestic and international tourists, ensuring that its historical significance is preserved and celebrated for future generations.