Tourism Ministry pushes for urgent UNESCO recognition of southern Jiroft civilization
Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Reza Salehi Amiri, reiterated efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the ancient Jiroft civilization, a little-known but significant archaeological site in southern Iran.
Speaking to reporters upon arrival in Jiroft on Thursday, Salehi Amiri described the region as a “radiant gem” in Iran’s history.
“Jiroft does not need an introduction; it shines like the sun in the historical landscape of our nation,” he said.
His visit aims to further archaeological research, promote global recognition, and address preservation efforts.
“Following this trip, we must actively pursue its global registration. Also, I will listen to local concerns and raise them within the government,” he added. Jiroft, located in Kerman province near the Halil River, hosts several ancient sites, including Konar Sandal, the Islamic city of Daqyanous, and the Mahdutabad cemetery. Excavations at Konar Sandal, led by archaeologists such as Yousef Majidzadeh and later Mansour Seyyed Sajjadi, have uncovered a ziggurat, a fortress, and artifacts dating back to the late third millennium BCE.
Experts believe Jiroft could be home to one of the earliest known civilizations, with inscriptions possibly representing an undeciphered script.