Dehloran’s heritage revealing signs of ancient civilization
A faculty member of Islamic Azad University of Ilam stated that Dehloran, as one of the important regions in western Iran, has been inhabited since prehistoric times and holds signs of civilization within it.
Habibollah Mahmoudian, in an interview with ISNA, explained that the pre-civilization era of Elam is known as the Proto-Elamite period, which has left numerous artifacts in Dehloran. Excavations conducted in this region indicate that humans lived in Dehloran about 8,000 BCE and domesticated animals such as sheep and goats to ensure a reliable food source.
He noted that during this period, Dehloran was recognized as one of the cultural and economic centers. This era coincided with the Ali Kosh Hill period, which is famously known as the pre-pottery phase. The ruins of the ancient Ali Kosh Hill were inhabited before the invention of pottery (around 8000 BCE).
Mahmoudian elaborated that archaeological findings show humans managed to cultivate plant seeds such as barley, lentils, mung beans, flax, wheat, and barley in Dehloran from 5,500 to 7,500 BCE. They established the first village and settlement and engaged in livestock farming.
He stated that these developments are confirmed based on evidence obtained from archaeological excavations, such as those conducted by Frank Hole and Kent Flannery in 1961 on the Ali Kosh Hill, Chogha Sefid Hill, and other ancient areas of this region.
He added that archaeological findings indicate that humans succeeded in creating the first village and settlement in Dehloran between 5,500 and 7,500 BCE. These villages reflect significant transformations in architecture and the social organization of people during that period.
Mahmoudian stated that Dehloran, as one of the key areas in prehistoric times, played an important role in the development of agriculture, livestock farming, and early architecture. This region, with its rich archaeological sites, stands as evidence of ancient civilizations and human advancements in prehistoric times.
Dehloran, the largest city in Ilam Province, is situated in the southwestern part of the province and boasts a rich historical background.
This city shares the longest border between Ilam Province and Iraq, making it the most populated city after the provincial capital. The city’s main population comprises Lors and Kurds, with a smaller presence of Laks and Arabs. The primary languages spoken are Lori and Kurdish, and the dominant religion is Shia Islam.
Spanning more than one-third of the province’s area, Dehloran is located 230 kilometers from Ilam, nestled between the cities of Mehran, Malekshahi, and Abdanan, and borders Iraq to the south and west.
As one of the tropical cities in western Iran, Dehloran experiences very hot weather during the summer and late spring. However, in winter and late March, the climate becomes pleasant, attracting tourists and travelers.