Preserving Iran’s history through cross-sector collaboration
In recent years, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts has pursued goals such as preserving national identity, strengthening cultural diplomacy, and achieving sustainable development through a cross-sectoral approach in its three main areas of mission. Despite existing challenges, the actions taken — especially in the field of cultural heritage—not only demonstrate the ministry’s serious commitment to protecting Iran’s history and culture but also serve as a model for synergy between the public sector, private sector, and non-governmental organizations.
Mohammad Nasiri-Haqiqat, head of the Pasargadae World Heritage Site, wrote that among the commendable measures of this ministry in the cultural heritage sector are the registration of historical and natural sites on national and international lists, conducting field and archaeological research, restoration and revival of historical buildings, attracting private sector participation in projects, and promoting a heritage-centered culture in society, according to IRNA.
Holding festivals, educational programs, scientific and cultural meetings, and public initiatives to improve “heritage literacy” among all segments of society have played a significant role in bringing people closer to their cultural identity.
Tourism sector
In the tourism sector, the ministry’s focus on developing infrastructure and facilities in lesser-known areas and empowering local communities has created a clear vision for “sustainable tourism.” The growth of eco-tourism accommodations, the organization of festivals such as Nowruzgah, traditional ceremonies, and local food festivals have not only boosted the economy but also provided an opportunity to introduce indigenous culture to both domestic and international tourists.
Regional and international cooperation for developing joint tourism indicates Iran’s growing role in cultural diplomacy.
Handicrafts
In the field of handicrafts, actions such as registering handicraft cities and villages, supporting artists by offering facilities, providing specialized training, holding exhibitions and domestic and international markets, and innovating in design and packaging have led to a renaissance of this authentic art and attracted the younger generation. The fusion of traditional art with modern design has placed Iran’s handicrafts in a newly competitive position.
Pasargadae World Heritage Site
The Pasargadae World Heritage Site, one of the country’s most important historic sites, has undertaken numerous actions aligned with the ministry’s overarching policies in three areas: conservation and restoration, development of infrastructure, and research and outreach.
Key actions at the Pasargadae World Heritage Site include launching conservation and restoration workshops for Cyrus’s tomb, organizing, protecting, and restoring the watercourses of the royal garden of Pasargadae and the Mazafari Caravanserai within the Pasargadae World Heritage Area, and replacing part of the surrounding fence to strengthen the site’s physical protection.
Infrastructure developments
In the infrastructure section, phase 3 of the route improvement leading to Cyrus’s tomb and the completion of the administrative building of the base have been completed.
In the research and study section, which is considered one of the ongoing programs of the site, three projects have been underway in the past year.
Also in the cultural section, introduction and training, the Nowruz Festival, regional handicrafts exhibition, local cuisine and games, a photo exhibition introducing the region’s historic and natural tourist attractions, and the first training course in stone conservation and restoration at the Pasargadae World Heritage Site are among the important actions carried out in the past year.
Considering the primary mission of all world and national heritage sites, which is to protect the historical monuments under their management, ongoing conservation and restoration workshops remain a priority. Moreover, studies and research, as the precondition for all related efforts, are ongoing and cultural activities in the fields of introduction and education remain on the site’s agenda.
Pasargadae World Heritage Site regards itself as committed to continuing the path of protection, introduction, and education, and, leaning on scientific experience, technical knowledge, the involvement of local communities, and support from the ministry, steps forward in safeguarding one of the oldest symbols of Iran’s civilization.
It is hoped that, with a more comprehensive perspective, firmer resolve, and stronger trust in the country’s human and natural capacities, we can take more solid steps toward achieving the broader goals of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts.