Anahita Temple; mysterious monument from Parthian era
An archaeologist stated that the Anahita Temple in Meymeh of Dehloran, Ilam Province, remains an unidentified monument from the Parthian era.
Habibollah Mahmoudian, in an interview with ISNA, explained, “On the edge of the Meymeh River, west of Kabir Kuh, amidst the fruit orchards of the small town of Meymeh, a significant stone wall made of carved stones in the Parthian style has been revealed through illegal excavations, including spherical semi-columns.”
He noted that at this site, ten cubic-shaped stones and two broken spherical stone columns have been observed.
The archaeologist added, “One of these stones measures 50×60×130 centimeters. Additionally, numerous pieces of thick, red and ochre simple and decorated pottery shards are found in this area.”
Mahmoudian explained, “It seems that this site, which is elevated compared to the surrounding land, contains important relics from the historical era. These include the stone wall built with carved stones, springs and qanats, as well as scattered pieces of stone belonging to ancient structures.”
He further stated: “Due to the significance of this archaeological site, the implementation of structured archaeological research projects is essential.”
Dehloran, located in southwestern Iran, is a region rich in history that spans thousands of years. Historically, it has been a crossroads of various civilizations, including Elamite, Parthian, and Sassanid cultures. Its strategic location near ancient trade routes and its proximity to the Zagros Mountains have made it an area of considerable archaeological interest.
The region is known for its ancient sites, including caravanserais, old forts, and Zoroastrian fire temples. Dehloran’s landscape reflects a blend of desert plains and mountain terrains, which historically provided both natural defenses and resources for its inhabitants. The area has also been significant in Iran’s modern history, especially during the Iran–Iraq war, when it was a major battleground.
Today, Dehloran continues to be a focal point for archaeological research and cultural preservation efforts. Its sites offer valuable insights into Iran’s ancient history and the development of civilizations in this region. Protecting and studying its archaeological heritage remains vital for understanding the area’s historical role in shaping the broader history of Iran.