Preserving history at Naqsh-e Rostam in Fars Province
The Persepolis World Heritage Site in Fars Province encompasses a vast area, with one of its most significant sections being the historic complex of Naqsh-e Rostam, said Head of the site Mohammad Javad Ja’fari.
In an interview with ISNA, he elaborated that Naqsh-e Rostam represents a complete archaeological and historical zone, containing valuable remains that span from the Elamite period to the Islamic era. The site’s most notable features are the Achaemenid tombs, while prominent monuments from the Sassanid era are also present.
Ja’fari noted that archaeological studies at Naqsh-e Rostam have been relatively limited. Most research took place between the 1930s and 1940s, after which attention shifted primarily to conservation and restoration. The site houses four major Achaemenid tombs — those of Xerxes, Darius I, Artaxerxes I, and Darius II — which remain among its most iconic structures.
He added that all programs at the site prioritize preservation, extending beyond superficial restoration to include structural reinforcement, decorative conservation, and broader site-area safeguarding to maintain its historical integrity. According to Ja’fari, every area of Naqsh-e Rostam requires dedicated attention, and staff members are actively engaged in these efforts.
Addressing current challenges, Ja’fari highlighted that the main obstacle is insufficient funding for emergency preservation. Available resources are very limited, restricting the launch of extensive restoration operations. Currently, restoration work is concentrated on Xerxes’ tomb, while Darius I, Darius II, and the Ka’ba-ye Zartosht monument urgently require protective studies and intervention.
Regarding major projects at Naqsh-e Rostam, he emphasized that preservation and restoration are the first priorities, followed by the upgrading of tourism infrastructure. The current access road is a rural and hazardous path, and plans have been drafted to reroute it farther from the site to better align with the historic context. The new entrance is planned for the western side, a location that is historically compatible with the complex and offers an optimal access point for visitors.
Ja’fari also announced plans to implement night visits at Naqsh-e Rostam. “We are working to fully upgrade the site’s lighting this year so that pilot night tours can be conducted, with the program later extended to Persepolis,” he said. He emphasized that the improved lighting will not only enhance visibility but also ensure visitor safety during nighttime tours.
On the issue of ground subsidence, he explained that the phenomenon affects the entire Marvdasht plain, and Naqsh-e Rostam, situated at the junction of the plain and the mountains, is also impacted. Preliminary studies conducted by Shiraz University indicate that while the mountain rock remains largely unharmed, lower structures, fortifications, and even the Ka’ba-ye Zartosht could be affected. The results will be reviewed in expert sessions, and comprehensive management strategies will be developed, with full findings presented at a “Subsidence Workshop” during Research Week (December 15-18) at Persepolis.
Regarding erosion caused by excessive tourist numbers, Ja’fari cautioned that overcapacity poses significant risks. “Worldwide, access is never allowed beyond capacity, and the same measures must apply at Naqsh-e Rostam and Persepolis,” he stated. He added that visitor flow will be reorganized this year, with tourists ascending via one staircase and descending through the southern terrace, reducing pressure on the steps.
He concluded by noting that visitor capacity management plans are being finalized, and detailed announcements will be made soon.