Iran’s ancient Rab’-e Rashidi academic complex to be restored
The restoration of Rab’-e Rashidi, the medieval academic complex in Tabriz, has been ordered amid growing concerns over its deteriorating condition.
Originally established in the 13th century by the Ilkhanid vizier Rashid al-Din, the site is considered one of the earliest and largest universities in the world, according to IRNA.
During a meeting with cultural heritage officials, including Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, Reza Salehi Amiri, President Masoud Pezeshkian instructed the restoration of the ancient site.
“Rab’-e Rashidi is a symbol of our scientific and cultural legacy,” he stated, highlighting its role as a multi-lingual intellectual hub 750 years ago.
The complex housed a library, translation center, industrial complex, and an autonomous financial system. It operated in seven languages, influencing academic thought across Asia and the Persian Gulf. However, years of neglect, environmental damage, and urban encroachment have put the site at risk.
According to Bahram Ajorlou, project director of Rab’-e Rashidi and head of Tabriz University of Art, recent excavations have unearthed significant artifacts from both the Ilkhanid and Ottoman periods.
Among the discoveries are advanced water management systems and exquisite tile work, shedding light on the region’s architectural and academic innovations.
Despite these breakthroughs, challenges remain. Ajorlou criticized the lack of support from Tabriz’s city authorities, citing construction permits that have further encroached on the site. “Only 13 hectares remain of the original 100,” he said, calling for urgent measures to protect the area from further development.
In 2023, a four-party agreement between the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, the University of Art, Tabriz Municipality, and a German archaeological institute allowed archaeological activities to resume after a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, securing adequate funding remains a pressing issue, with the site requiring approximately $1.1 million for preservation.