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List of World Heritage Sites in Iran facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Flag of Iran
The flag of Iran


UNESCO is a special part of the United Nations. It helps protect important places around the world. These places are called World Heritage Sites. They can be important for their history, culture, or nature.

Iran joined the UNESCO agreement in 1975. This meant its amazing historical sites could become World Heritage Sites. As of 2023, Iran has twenty-seven sites on this special list!

The first three sites in Iran were added in 1979. These were Meidan Naghshe Jahan, Isfahan, Persepolis, and Tchogha Zanbil. For a long time, these were the only ones. Then, in 2003, Takht-e Soleyman was added. The newest addition was the Hyrcanian forests in 2019.

Iran also has more than 50 other places that it hopes will be added to the list in the future. These are on a "tentative list."

Iran's World Heritage Sites

Here are some of the amazing places in Iran that UNESCO has recognized as World Heritage Sites:

Site Image Location Criteria Area

ha (acre)

Year Description
Armenian Monastic Ensembles of Iran
Armenian Monastery of Saint Thaddeus - closeup
Armenian Monastery of Saint Thaddeus
West Azerbaijan Province38°58′44″N 45°28′24″E / 38.97889°N 45.47333°E / 38.97889; 45.47333 Cultural:IrnArm

(ii)(iii)(vi)

129 (320) 2008 These monasteries in northwest Iran are beautiful examples of Armenian Christian architecture. They show how Armenian, Byzantine, Orthodox, and Persian cultures mixed. These sites have helped spread Armenian culture for centuries. They are still important places for religious visits today.
Bam and its Cultural Landscape
BAM IR2726
The ancient city of Bam
Kerman Province29°07′00″N 58°22′00″E / 29.11667°N 58.36667°E / 29.11667; 58.36667 Cultural:IrnBam

(ii)(iii)(iv)(v)

2004 Bam is an ancient city in the desert. It dates back to the Achaemenid Empire (6th-4th centuries BC). It was a busy trade center for silk and cotton. The city used qanāts, which are old underground water systems. The Arg-e Bam is a very old mud-brick city that is still well-preserved.
Bisotun
Darius I the Great's inscription
Darius I the Great's inscription
Kermanshah Province34°23′18″N 47°26′12″E / 34.38833°N 47.43667°E / 34.38833; 47.43667 Cultural:IrnBis

(ii)(iii)

187 (460) 2006 Bisotun is on an old trade route in Iran. It has art from different historical times. The most famous part is a carving and writing from Darius the Great from 521 BC. It tells the story of how he became king. This site shows how art and writing traditions mixed long ago.
Cultural Landscape of Maymand
Maymand village
Maymand village
Kerman Province30°10′05″N 55°22′32″E / 30.16806°N 55.37556°E / 30.16806; 55.37556 Cultural:IrnCul

(v)

4,954 (12,240) 2015 Maymand is a village in a dry valley in southern Iran. Its people are semi-nomadic farmers and herders. They move to mountain pastures in spring and autumn. In winter, they live in special cave homes. This shows an old way of life that is rare in dry areas.
Cultural Landscape of Hawraman/Uramanat
Uraman 3566731
Uramanat village
Kurdistan Province Cultural:IrnCul

(iii)(v)

106 (260) 2021 This region is home to the Kurdish Hawrami people since 3000 BCE. It has rugged mountains and unique tiered buildings. The people here farm and herd animals, moving with the seasons. Their way of life shows how they have adapted to living in the Zagros for thousands of years.
Gonbad-e Qābus
Gonbad-e Qabus tower2017-1
Gonbad-e Qābus tower
Golestan Province37°15′29″N 55°10′08″E / 37.25806°N 55.16889°E / 37.25806; 55.16889 Cultural:IrnGon

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

1 (2.5) 2012 This tower was built in 1006 AD in northeast Iran. It connects the cultures of Central Asian nomads and Iranian civilization. The 53-meter-high tower is all that is left of an old city. Its clever brick design shows the great math and science skills of the Muslim world.
Golestan Palace
Palacio de Golestán, Teherán, Irán, 2016-09-17, DD 07
Golestan Palace in Tehran
Tehran35°40′47″N 51°25′13″E / 35.67972°N 51.42028°E / 35.67972; 51.42028 Cultural:IrnGon

(ii)(iii)(iv)

5.3 (13) 2013 The Golestan Palace is a beautiful building from the Qajar era. It mixes traditional Persian art with Western styles. It is one of Tehran’s oldest buildings. It became the center of power for the Qajar dynasty in 1779. The palace has gardens, pools, and unique decorations from the 19th century.
Lut Desert
Kaluts, Iran (5072510138)
Kaluts in Lut Desert
Kerman and Sistan and Baluchestan Provinces

30°12′58″N 58°50′20″E / 30.21611°N 58.83889°E / 30.21611; 58.83889

Natural:IrnLut

(vii)(viii)

2,278,012 (5,629,090) 2016 The Lut Desert in southeast Iran is one of the hottest and driest places on Earth. Strong winds here create amazing landforms called yardangs. These are large ridges shaped by the wind. The desert also has rocky areas and huge sand dunes. It's a great example of how natural forces shape our planet.
Sassanid Archaeological Landscape in Fars Province (Bishabpur, Firouzabad, Sarvestan)
Palace of Ardashir
Palace of Ardashir
Fars Province

29°46′39″N 51°34′14″E / 29.77750°N 51.57056°E / 29.77750; 51.57056

Cultural:IrnThePerQan

(ii)(iii)(v)

639.3 (1,580) 2018 These eight sites in Fars Province show the history of the Sasanian Empire (224 to 658 CE). They have well-preserved city designs, forts, and palaces. Some were built by Ardashir Papakan, who started the empire. These sites show how Sassanian architecture mixed with the land. They also show influences from Roman art.
Masjed-e Jāmé of Isfahan
Jamé Mosque Esfahan courtyard
Courtyard of Jameh Mosque of Isfahan
Isfahan, Isfahan Province

32°40′11″N 51°41′07″E / 32.66972°N 51.68528°E / 32.66972; 51.68528

Cultural:IrnMas

(ii)

2.0756 (5.129) 2012 This mosque in Isfahan dates back to 841 AD. It shows how mosque building changed over 12 centuries in Iran. It is the oldest mosque still standing in Iran. Its design, with four courtyards, influenced other mosques in Central Asia. The mosque also has beautiful decorations that show the history of Islamic art.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square
Naghshe Jahan Square Isfahan modified
Naghshe Jahan Square in Isfahan
Isfahan, Isfahan Province

32°39′27″N 51°40′40″E / 32.65750°N 51.67778°E / 32.65750; 51.67778

Cultural:IrnMei

(i)(v)(vi)

1979 This square was built in the 17th century by Shah Abbas I. It shows the amazing architecture of the Safavid period. It has grand buildings and arcades. Important buildings include the Royal Mosque and the Mosque of Sheykh Lotfollah. The square was also a major trading center.
Pasargadae
مقبره کورش (EDITED)
Mausoleum of Cyrus II
Fars Province30°11′38″N 53°10′02″E / 30.19389°N 53.16722°E / 30.19389; 53.16722 Cultural:IrnPas

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

160 (400) 2004 Pasargadae was the first capital of the huge Achaemenid Empire. It was founded by Cyrus II in the 6th century BC. This site shows early royal Achaemenid art and building styles. It includes the Mausoleum of Cyrus II and a fortified platform called Tall-e Takht. Pasargadae was the center of the first big empire in Western Asia. It was known for respecting different cultures.
Persepolis
Gate of All Nations, Persepolis
Gate of All Nations, Persepolis
Fars Province29°56′04″N 52°53′25″E / 29.93444°N 52.89028°E / 29.93444; 52.89028 Cultural:IrnPer

(i)(iii)(vi)

12.5 (31) 1979 Persepolis was the capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Darius I started building it in 518 B.C. This grand city was built on a huge platform. It had amazing palaces and structures. The ruins show the empire's power and the skill of its builders. Persepolis is a unique historical treasure.
Shahr-e Sukhteh
کاخ سوخته شهر سوحته
The Burnt City
Sistan and Baluchestan Province30°35′38″N 61°19′40″E / 30.59389°N 61.32778°E / 30.59389; 61.32778 Cultural:IrnPer

(ii)(iii)(iv)

275 (680) 2014 Shahr-i Sokhta, meaning 'Burnt City,' was an ancient city on trade routes in Iran. It was built around 3200 BC and lived in until 1800 BC. The city had special areas for buildings, homes, and workshops. It was left empty because water sources changed. Its mud-brick buildings and artifacts are very well preserved. They teach us a lot about early societies.
Sheikh Safi al-din Khānegāh and Shrine Ensemble in Ardabil
Sheikh Safi Al din Tomb
Sheikh Safi al-Din Tomb
Ardabil Province38°14′55″N 48°17′29″E / 38.24861°N 48.29139°E / 38.24861; 48.29139 Cultural:IrnShe

(i)(ii)(iv)

2 (4.9) 2010 This spiritual place was built between the 16th and 18th centuries. It shows how traditional Iranian buildings were used for many purposes. It has a library, mosque, school, and more. The path to the shrine has seven parts, like the seven steps of a Sufi journey. The buildings are beautifully decorated. It's a great example of medieval Islamic architecture.
Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System
Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System Darafsh (6)
Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System
Khuzestan Province32°01′07″N 48°50′09″E / 32.01861°N 48.83583°E / 32.01861; 48.83583 Cultural:IrnShu

(i)(ii)(v)

240 (590) 2009 This amazing water system in Shushtar dates back to the 5th century B.C. It uses canals from the Kârun River to power watermills. The water then flows over cliffs, creating waterfalls. This system helped water farms and orchards for miles. It shows the advanced engineering skills of ancient people like the Elamites and Romans.
Soltaniyeh
Solt dome 1
The dome of Soltaniyeh
Zanjan Province36°26′07″N 48°47′48″E / 36.43528°N 48.79667°E / 36.43528; 48.79667 Cultural:IrnSha

(ii)(iii)(iv)

790 (2,000) 2005 The mausoleum of Oljaytu was built from 1302 to 1312 in Soltaniyeh. This city was once the capital of the Ilkhanid dynasty. The building is a great example of Persian architecture. It has an octagonal shape and a huge 50-meter-high dome. This dome is the first known double-shelled dome in Iran. Its inside decorations are so beautiful that some say it inspired the Taj Mahal.
Susa
Shush Castle
Shush Castle
Khuzestan Province32°11′22″N 48°15′22″E / 32.18944°N 48.25611°E / 32.18944; 48.25611 Cultural:IrnSus

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

350 (860) 2015 Susa is a site with many ancient mounds near the Shavur River. It shows layers of city life from 5000 BCE to the 13th century CE. This site tells the story of the Elamite, Persian, and Parthian cultures. It has ruins of palaces and homes that show the complex history of these civilizations.
Tabriz Historic Bazaar Complex
Carpet Bazaar of Tabriz
Carpet Bazaar of Tabriz
East Azerbaijan Province38°04′53″N 46°17′35″E / 38.08139°N 46.29306°E / 38.08139; 46.29306 Cultural:IrnTab

(ii)(iii)(iv)

29 (72) 2010 The Tabriz bazaar has been a center for trade and culture for a long time. It was important during the Silk Road era. This covered brick complex grew in the 13th century. Tabriz was the capital of the Safavid empire then. Even after losing its capital status, it remained a key trading spot. Today, it's a great example of Iran's old markets.
Takht-e Soleyman
Takht-e-soleiman-1
Takht-e Soleyman archaeological site
West Azerbaijan Province36°36′14″N 47°14′06″E / 36.60389°N 47.23500°E / 36.60389; 47.23500 Cultural:IrnTak

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(vi)

10 (25) 2003 The Takht-e Soleyman site is in northwest Iran, in a volcanic area. It has a main Zoroastrian temple rebuilt in the 13th century. There's also a Sasanian temple from the 6th and 7th centuries. This site influenced Islamic building designs.
Tchogha Zanbil
ChoghaZanbil Darafsh (17)
Chogha Zanbil ziggurat
Khuzestan Province32°05′00″N 48°32′00″E / 32.08333°N 48.53333°E / 32.08333; 48.53333 Cultural:IrnTch

(iii)(iv)

1979 Tchogha Zanbil was a sacred city of the ancient Elamite Kingdom. It is surrounded by three huge walls. It was started around 1250 B.C. but was never finished because of an invasion. Many unused bricks are still found there.
The Persian Garden
40sotoon
Chehel Sotoun Palace, a Persian Garden
Many Provinces (Fars, Kerman, Razavi Khorasan, Yazd, Mazandaran, and Isfahan Provinces) Cultural:IrnThePerGar

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(vi)

716 (1,770) 2011 This site includes nine gardens across different provinces. They show the many styles of Persian gardens. These gardens date back to the 6th century BC. They are always divided into four parts and use water for beauty and irrigation. They represent Eden and the elements of nature. These gardens influenced garden design in places like India and Spain.
Trans-Iranian Railway
Veresk 01 - panoramio
Veresk Bridge, part of the Trans-Iranian Railway
Mazandaran, Tehran and Khuzestan Provinces Cultural:IrnTab

(ii)(vi)

5,784 (14,290) 2021 The Trans-Iranian Railway is 1,394 kilometers long. It connects the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf. It goes through mountains, rivers, and forests. Built from 1927 to 1938, it was an amazing engineering project. It has 174 large bridges and 224 tunnels. Iran paid for it with national taxes to stay independent.
Persian Qanat
Kariz kaykhosrow
A Qanat system
Razavi Khorasan, South Khorasan, Yazd, Kerman, Markazi and Isfahan Provinces

34°17′24″N 58°39′16″E / 34.29000°N 58.65444°E / 34.29000; 58.65444

Cultural:IrnThePerQan

(iii)(iv)

2016 In Iran's dry areas, people use an old system called qanat. It brings water from underground to farms and towns. Eleven qanats show how communities shared water fairly. This system is a great example of how people adapted to living in the desert.
Historic City of Yazd
Yazd Unesco
Historic City of Yazd
Yazd, Yazd Province

31°53′50″N 54°22′4″E / 31.89722°N 54.36778°E / 31.89722; 54.36778

Cultural:IrnThePerQan

(iii)(v)

195.67 (483.5) 2017 Yazd is in the middle of the Iranian plateau. It shows how people survived in the desert using the Qanat water system. The city has old earthen buildings, markets, and religious sites. The historic Dolat-abad garden is also part of this site.
Hyrcanian Forests
Ghaleye Rud Khan (40) 4
Hyrcanian Forests
Golestan, Mazandaran and Gilan Provinces

37°25′17.3″N 55°43′27.4″E / 37.421472°N 55.724278°E / 37.421472; 55.724278

Natural:IrnHyr

(ix)

129,484.74 (319,963.8) 2019 The Hyrcanian forests cover parts of three Iranian provinces. These forests are very old and important for nature. They cover southern and southwestern areas, as well as parts of eastern regions.
The Persian Caravanserai
قلعه زین الدین
Zeyneddin Caravanserai
54 Location in Iran Cultural:

(ii)(iii)IrnThePerQan

27.77 2023 Caravanserais were like old roadside hotels. They gave shelter, food, and water to travelers and traders. Their locations depended on water, geography, and safety. The 56 caravanserais on this list are just a few of the many built along Iran's ancient roads.

Places Iran Hopes to Add to the List

Iran is a country rich in culture, history, and Natural heritage. It is home to one of the world's oldest civilizations. Iran is also known as a "Four Seasons Country" because of its varied climates.

Countries can suggest places they want to be added to the World Heritage list. These are called "tentative sites." As of May 2020, Iran has 56 places on this list.

Name Image Location Category

Criteria

Reference

Date Description
Ali-Sadr Cave
علی صدر3
Inside Ali Sadr Cave
Hamadan Province Natural

(vii)(viii)(ix)

5220

09/08/2007 Ali Sadr Cave is famous for its huge water-filled halls. It has amazing rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites. It's the biggest water cave you can explore by boat. This natural wonder is carefully managed to protect it for the future.
Arasbaran Protected Area
The misty mountains
Misty mountains in Arasbaran Protected Area
Azerbaijan Province Natural

(vii)(viii)(ix)(x)

5217

09/08/2007 The Arasbaran Protected Area covers a large space in Iran. It has different heights, from lowlands to high mountains. This creates many homes for plants and animals. It's important for rare species. UNESCO recognized it as a special wildlife area in 1976.
Asbaads (Windmill) of Iran. Nashtifan
Ancient Windmills of Nashtifan 2021-07-17
Ancient Windmills of Nashtifan
Khurasan-e Razavi, Sistan and Balochestan Cultural

(i)(ii)(iv)(v)

6192

02/02/2017 Eastern Iran has strong winds all year. People here invented windmills called "Asbad" to grind grain. These windmills are built on high places to catch the wind. They also protect towns from storms. Wind power has been used in Iran for 3000 years.
Bastam and Kharghan
Kharaghan
Kharaghan tower
Cultural

(ii)(iii)(iv)

5198

09/08/2007 This area includes the complex of Sheikh Bayazid Bastami, a famous Sufi leader. It also has an old mosque and a tower. The oldest buildings here are from the 8th and 9th centuries AD.
Bazaar of Qaisariye in Laar Laar, Fars Province Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(vi)

5196

09/08/2007 Laar shows how cities were planned before the Safavid era. Its design adapted after a big earthquake. The Bazaar of Qaisariye and a square with a polo gate show a unique city complex. It grew from efforts to rebuild after the disaster.
Cultural Landscape of Alamutt
Qazvin - Alamout Castle
Alamut Castle
Village of Alamout,

Qazvin

Mixed

(ii)(iv)(v)(vi)(viii)

5206

09/08/2007 Hassan Sabah’s castle is a historical fortress. It sits on a 220-meter cliff in the Alborz Mountains. The remaining walls and towers are made of stone. The castle covers a large area. Its buildings are built to fit the steep land.
Damavand
Damavand Arad
Mount Damavand
Mazandaran Province Natural

(vii)(viii)(ix)(x)

5278

05/02/2008 Mount Damavand is Iran’s tallest peak, at about 5,628 meters high. It is an inactive volcano. The mountain has many hot springs and is always covered in snow. This region has about 2,000 plant species. Many of these plants are found only here.
Firuzabad Ensemble
Firozahur
Firuzabad ensemble
Firuzabad, Fars Cultural

893

22/05/1997 The Firuzabad area shows the rich history of the Sassanian period. It has important buildings like the circular City of Gur. There's also the Palace of Ardashir and the Qal’eh Dokhtar fortress. These sites show the empire’s advanced city planning and architecture.
Ghaznavi- Seljukian Axis in Khorasan
Sharaf-1
Ribat-i Sharaf caravanserai
Khorasan Province Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

5211

09/08/2007 Many caravanserais (roadside inns) are along the Silk Route. They date back to the Seljuk period. Places like Robat-Sharaf show how important this trade route was. These buildings highlight the history of the Great Khorasan region.
Hamoun Lake
هامون پوزک خرداد 93
Hamoun Lake
Sistan and Baluchistan Province Natural

(vii)(viii)(ix)(x)

5276

05/02/2008 This desert lake is in eastern Iran. It is divided into three parts. When it rains a lot, the lake can cover about 5,700 square kilometers. Most of it is in Iran, with some in Afghanistan.
Harra Protected Area
Hara Forest Qeshm Island
Hara Forest in Qeshm Island
Hormozgan Province Natural

(vii)(viii)(ix)(x)

5277

05/02/2008 This reserve is between Qeshm Island and southern Iran. It has large mangrove forests. It's a very hot place with little rain. It's important for many water birds. This area has been protected since 1972.
Ecbatana
Hegmataneh
Ancient city of Ecbatana
Hamadan Province Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

5272

05/02/2008 Ecbatana was an ancient city. It was the capital of the Medes in the 7th century BCE. Later, it was a summer capital for Persian and Parthian empires. The city was known for its circular design. Gold and silver items have been found there, showing its wealth.
Historic ensemble of Qasr-e Shirin
Kuşk-i Xesrew. Qesir Sîrîn (2)
Khosrow's Palace in Qasr-e Shirin
Qasr-e Shrin, Kermanshah Province Cultural

889

22/05/1997 This is an important historical site from the Sassanian era. It has ruins of palaces, temples, and other buildings. It shows the area's importance as a cultural and political center. Qasr-e Shirin is also famous for the love story of Khosrow and Shirin.
Temple of Anahita of Kangavar
Anahita temple Iran
Temple of Anahita
Kangavar, Kermanshah Province Cultural

(iii)

5189

09/08/2007 This ancient site is dedicated to Anahita, the Persian water goddess. It has large terraces and grand stairways. There are also parts of stone columns. This suggests a mix of Greek and Persian building styles.
Imam Reza Shrine
Imam-Reza-shrine-mashhad-Iran ایران-مشهد-حرم-علی-ابن-موسی-الرضا 09
Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad
Mashhad, Khurasan-e Razavi Province Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(vi)

6194

02/02/2017 This complex is for Imam Reza, an important Shia Imam. Millions of people visit it every year. It includes a mosque, a tomb, and a library. Its architecture has beautiful tile work, domes, and minarets. It shows the rich Islamic art and building styles.
Industrial Heritage of textile in the central Plateau of Iran Isfahan, Yazd and Kerman Provinces Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

6196

02/02/2017 This area has many old mills and workshops. Workers used old methods and new machines to make textiles. These textiles were known for their quality and designs. This site shows how the region helped develop textile making. It also shaped the local economy.
Jiroft
Jabalbarez-domar
Jabalbarez mountains near Jiroft
Kerman Province Cultural

(ii)(iii)(v)(vi)

5210

09/08/2007 Jiroft is known for its ancient artifacts. These include finely made stone vessels. It is a key site for understanding early city life and trade. The discoveries suggest it was a major center for crafts and trade. It may have been linked to ancient Mesopotamia.
Blue Mosque, Tabriz
Kaboud mosque - tabriz
Blue Mosque in Tabriz
Tabriz, East Azerbaijan Province Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)

5202

09/08/2007 This historic mosque is famous for its beautiful blue tiles. It was built in 1465. An earthquake in 1779 badly damaged it. But it has been restored to keep its beauty. The mosque mixes Islamic and Persian building styles. It has detailed writing and patterns.
Kerman Historical-Cultural Structure
Ganjali Khan Complex, Kerman
Ganjali Khan Complex, Kerman
Kerman Province Cultural

(i)(ii)(iii)(iv)(vi)

5271

05/02/2008 This area has many important buildings. These include mosques, bazaars, and bathhouses. They show different historical times, from Islamic to modern. The city's design, with its markets and narrow streets, shows old Persian city planning. Kerman's historical center has beautiful tile work and mud-brick buildings.
Khabr National Park and Ruchun Wildlife Refuge
Road in Khabr National Park
Road in Khabr National Park
Kerman Province Natural

(vii)(viii)(ix)(x)

5219

09/08/2007 This protected area has mountains, rivers, and plants. It is a home for animals like Persian leopards and Asiatic black bears. It also has many bird species. The park helps protect water sources and regulate the climate.
Khorramabad Valley
Shapur Khast Castle KhorramAbad
Falak-ol-Aflak Castle in Khorramabad
Khorramabad, Luristan Province Cultural

(i)(iii)(iv)(v)

5209

09/08/2007 Khorramabad is the main city in this valley. It has many historical sites and old relics. These include the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle, from the Sassanian era. The valley also has diverse ecosystems. It's an important place to study Iran's ancient civilizations and nature.
Mount Khajeh
کوه خواجه پانوراما
Mount Khajeh panorama
Zabol, Sistan and Baluchistan Province Cultural

(ii)(iii)(iv)

5184

09/08/2007 Mount Khajeh is a flat-topped black hill rising from Hamoun Lake. It's important for its old ruins. These include an ancient fort and pre-Islamic buildings. There are Zoroastrian fire temples and a Sasanian palace. This natural fort has been a key cultural and religious center.
Naqsh-e Rostam and Naqsh-e Rajab
Naghsh-e rostam, Irán, 2016-09-24, DD 20-24 PAN
Naqsh-e Rostam rock carvings
Marvdasht, Fars Province Cultural

598

22/05/1997 Naqsh-e Rostam is an ancient burial site. It has tombs carved into rocks for four Achaemenid kings. There are also impressive carvings from the Achaemenid and Sassanian periods. These show royal victories. These sites teach us about ancient Persian practices and art.
Natural-Historical Complex / Cave of Karaftoo Kurdistan Province Mixed 02/02/2017 This cave system has unique rock formations and history. People have used it since ancient times for living and worship. The cave has Greek writings that suggest it was for the Greek god Hermes. It also has man-made rooms from different historical periods.
Persepolis and other relevant buildings
Persepolis iran
Persepolis ruins
Fars Province Cultural 09/08/2007 This ancient site was the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. It was built by Cyrus the Great and later kings. The complex has palaces, halls, and a treasury. Important parts include the Gate of All Nations and the Apadana Palace.
Persian Caravanserai
Izadkhast Old Caravanserai Iran
Izadkhast Old Caravanserai
Khurasan-e Razavi, Isfahan and Yazd Provinces Cultural 02/02/2017 These roadside inns were like fortified rest stops for travelers. They offered shelter, safety, and services. They helped trade and cultural exchange across the region. Caravanserais usually had a large courtyard and rooms for lodging. Their locations along trade routes were very important for the Persian Empire.
Qeshm Island
Beach Qeshm Island
Beach on Qeshm Island
Hormozgan province Natural 09/08/2007 Qeshm is the largest island in the Persian Gulf. It has many natural sights. These include the Hara Marine Forests and the Valley of Stars. It also has diverse wildlife like migratory birds and sea turtles. The island's culture is rich with traditional music and crafts.
Sabalan
Sabalan - panoramio - Farid Atar (9)
Mount Sabalan
Ardabil Province Natural

5218

09/08/2007 Sabalan is a dormant volcano, 4820 meters high. It's the third highest mountain in Iran. It's known for its hot springs, which attract visitors. Sabalan is also sacred in Persian stories. Its slopes are used by nomadic tribes for grazing animals.
Salt Domes of Iran Fars Province, Bushehr, Hormozgan, Qom and Zanjan Natural 02/02/2017 Salt domes are formed when salt from deep underground pushes up through rock layers. Iran's salt domes are colorful and striking. They create special places for plants and animals. Some domes also have valuable salt and other minerals.
Shush
Shush Castle Darafsh (7)
Shush Castle
100 km south of Ahvaz, Khuzestan province Cultural

894

22/05/1997 Shush is an ancient city, one of the oldest known settlements. It has archaeological evidence from 4000 BCE. Susa was important in the Elamite, Persian, and Parthian empires. It was a center for politics and trade. The site has ruins like the palace of Darius the Great.
Silk Route (Also as Silk Road) Khorasan Province Cultural

(i)

05/02/2008 The Silk Route in Iran refers to parts of the ancient Silk Road. This network of trade routes connected East and West for centuries. It allowed the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures. Iranian cities like Nishapur and Isfahan became busy trade centers.
Tepe Sialk
Tepe Sialk, Kashan, Irán, 2016-09-19, DD 25
Tepe Sialk archaeological site
Isfahan Province Cultural 22/05/1997 Tepe Sialk is an archaeological site from the 5th millennium BCE. It has two main mounds with many layers of old settlements. It helps us understand early farming societies in Iran. Important artifacts like pottery and tools have been found here. A ziggurat-like structure shows old religious activities.
Taq-e Bostan
Taq-e Bostan - equestrian statue
Taq-e Bostan rock relief
Kermanshah, Kermanshah Province Cultural 09/08/2007 Taq-e Bostan is an archaeological site with many old artifacts. It includes an ancient village and a Parthian burial site. The main part is from the Sassanid era. It has two rock-cut arches and amazing carvings from that time.
The Collection of Historical Bridges
Kizil Hauzen Bridge 2013
Kizil Hauzen Bridge
Lorestan Province Cultural 05/02/2008 This collection includes many old bridges in Lorestan Province. These bridges are important examples of ancient Iranian engineering. They helped connect different regions and facilitated trade and travel for centuries.
The Complex of Izadkhast
Iran - Fars - Old Historical Castle in Izadkhast - panoramio
Izadkhast Castle
Fars Province Cultural 09/08/2007 This complex has a fortress, a caravanserai, and a bridge. It is located along old trade routes. It was important for trade, military, and communication. The fortress is on a natural rock, showing old defense styles. The caravanserai provided lodging for travelers.
The Cultural-Natural Landscape of Ramsar
Ramsar Hotel Boulevard
Ramsar Hotel Boulevard
City of Ramsar, Province of Mazandaran Mixed 09/08/2007 Ramsar is a city in Mazandaran Province. This area is important for both its culture and nature. It has beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
The Great Wall of Gorgan Golestan Province Cultural 02/02/2017 This defensive wall was built during the Sassanian Empire (5th or 6th century AD). It is about 195 kilometers long, making it one of the longest ancient walls. It was built to protect against invaders. It has forts, watchtowers, and water systems.
The Historical City of Masuleh
Masouleh -Iran
Masuleh village
City of Masouleh, Gilan Province Cultural 09/08/2007 Masuleh was founded in 1006 AD. Its houses are built like steps on steep mountain slopes. The roofs of lower houses are the courtyards for upper houses. This unique design uses the natural land well. The city still keeps its old ways of life.
The Historical City of Maybod
Meybod 13
Narin Castle in Meybod
Maybod, Yazd Province Cultural 09/08/2007 Maybod is an ancient city with rich cultural and architectural history. Its city structure includes buildings like Narin Castle. This is one of the oldest and largest mud-brick forts in Iran.
The Historical Port of Siraf
Taheri port
Taheri port in Siraf
Province of Bushehr Cultural

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09/08/2007 Siraf was an important port on the maritime Silk Road. It helped trade between the Middle East, India, and the Far East. Old ruins show homes, mosques, and markets. They also show trade with distant lands. Siraf declined in the 12th century.
The Historical Texture of Damghan
Cheshmeh-Ali by Hadi Karimi
Cheshmeh-Ali in Damghan
Semnan Province Cultural

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09/08/2007 Damghan is one of Iran's oldest cities, dating back before Islam. It was important during the Parthian and Sassanian empires. The city has old buildings like the Tarikhaneh Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Iran. It also has ancient city walls.
The Historical Village of Abyaneh
Abyane.3
Abyaneh village
Village of Abyaneh, Isfahan Province Cultural

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09/08/2007 Abyaneh is known for its unique red mud-brick houses. They blend in with the mountains. The village has winding streets and multi-level houses. It also has old Zoroastrian fire temples and Islamic mosques with special designs.
Agha Bozorg Mosque
Mezquita de Agha Bozorg, Kashan, Irán, 2016-09-19, DD 81
Agha Bozorg Mosque in Kashan
Isfahan Province, Kashan Cultural

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09/08/2007 This mosque and school has a unique design. It has a long, rectangular shape and a sunken courtyard. The entrance leads to a domed hall and then the courtyard. It has a central domed room, two minarets, and open courts. It combines spaces for learning and worship.
The Natural-Historical Landscape of Izeh
Shahsavar Cemetery
Shahsavar Cemetery in Izeh
Khuzestan Province Natural

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05/02/2008 This area is famous for its ancient rock paintings. These paintings show figures in a unique way, creating depth. It's special because it has the earliest Iranian art showing women and men together.
The Persian House in Central plateau of Iran
Borujerdi House Kashan Iran
Borujerdi House in Kashan
Isfahan and Yazd Provinces Cultural

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02/02/2017 Persian houses in this region are built for the dry climate. They have high walls, central courtyards, and wind towers. These features help keep the houses cool. The courtyard is a family area, often with a garden. Wind towers bring cool breezes into the homes.
The Zandiyeh Ensemble of Fars Province
Karim Khan Citadel, Shiraz
Karim Khan Citadel in Shiraz
Shiraz, Fars Province Cultural

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5270

05/02/2008 The Karim Khani Buildings are the heart of old Shiraz. They show a mix of city styles from different times. This makes them very important historically. They are a great example of modern Iranian architecture.
Touran Biosphere Reserve
Nature between Golestan and Semnan Province
Nature in Touran Biosphere Reserve
Semnan Province Natural

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5275

05/02/2008 This protected area is known for its unique plants and animals. It's a desert ecosystem. It covers about 1.5 million hectares, one of Iran's largest reserves. It's a safe place for endangered Asiatic cheetahs, gazelles, and Persian leopards.
Tus Cultural Landscape
Haruniyeh
Haruniyeh building in Tus
Tous, Khorasan Province Cultural

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6195

02/02/2017 This area includes the remains of the ancient city of Tus. It has important historical, literary, and religious sites. The most famous is the tomb of Ferdowsi. He was a respected Persian poet who wrote the Shahnameh, an epic poem.
University of Tehran
University of Tehran main entrance
University of Tehran main entrance
Tehran Province Cultural

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6201

02/02/2017 The University of Tehran is an important cultural site. It represents modern education and intellectual life in Iran. Its architecture and history show its role in shaping the country's development.
Zozan
ZuzanMosque93
Zozan Mosque
Province of Khorasan Cultural

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5208

09/08/2007 Zozan is an ancient city with a rectangular layout. It has an old castle and a main mosque. The mosque dates back to the Khwarazmian era. Because it's far from modern cities, Zozan has kept its original look very well. Its buildings are similar to early Islamic architecture.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Anexo:Patrimonio de la Humanidad en Irán para niños

  • List of Intangible Cultural Heritage elements in Iran
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List of World Heritage Sites in Iran Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.