Lorestan Archaeology Museum Reopens Its Doors After War-Related Closure: A Treasure Trove Awaits!
The Lorestan Archaeology Museum, located in the historic Falak-ol-Aflak Castle in Khorramabad, has officially reopened its doors to the public as of October 9. This reopening follows a necessary three-month closure, aimed at protecting its invaluable collections during a recent 12-day conflict. The decision to temporarily shut down the museum was made to ensure the safety of its vast array of artifacts.
The reopening ceremony attracted several distinguished guests, including Fereidoun Biglari, the Cultural Deputy of the National Museum of Iran, and Ata Hassanpour, the Director-General of Lorestan’s Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts Department. Additionally, a delegation of academic staff from the Archaeology Department of Razi University in Kermanshah was present to celebrate the occasion.
During the event, Ata Hassanpour addressed the audience and elaborated on the reasons behind the museum’s closure. He stated, “Following the 12-day imposed war in June of this year, and to ensure the protection of valuable cultural and historical artifacts, museums across the country, including the Lorestan Archaeology Museum at Falak-ol-Aflak Castle, were temporarily closed by direct order of the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts.”
Hassanpour also highlighted that this closure provided a unique opportunity to enhance the museum’s facilities. “One of its galleries, previously equipped to showcase finds from the caves and prehistoric sites of the Khorramabad Valley for a World Heritage nomination dossier, was further enhanced and prepared for its reopening,” he explained.
He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the importance of protecting historical objects. “The protection of historical objects and securing the legacy of our ancestors during the crisis of the 12-day war was our top priority. Fortunately, by adhering to all necessary standards, the required protective measures were implemented in the shortest time possible,” he said.
The Lorestan Archaeology Museum boasts two main galleries dedicated to the Prehistoric and Historic eras. Its extensive collection features artifacts that span over one hundred thousand years of human settlement in the region. The museum is home to nearly 390 archaeological pieces from various periods, including:
- Paleolithic
- Epipaleolithic
- Neolithic
- Chalcolithic
- Bronze Age
- Iron Age
- Seleucid Period
- Parthian Period
- Sasanian Period
- Islamic Period
Additionally, the collection includes recent discoveries from archaeological excavations conducted on the Falak-ol-Aflak Castle mound, which adds significant value to the museum’s offerings.
In addition to archaeological artifacts, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of fossils from the Dimeh site. Some of these specimens are estimated to be over seven million years old, providing a glimpse into the distant past of the region.
The reopening of the Lorestan Archaeology Museum not only marks a return to normalcy but also reflects a commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Iran. The museum serves as a vital resource for researchers, students, and visitors alike, eager to learn about the ancient history of the region.
As the museum resumes its operations, it invites the public to explore its extensive collections and participate in various educational programs that aim to promote awareness about the importance of cultural preservation. The Lorestan Archaeology Museum stands as a testament to the resilience of cultural institutions in the face of adversity, ensuring that the legacy of past civilizations continues to inspire future generations.
The community and visitors are encouraged to visit the museum and witness firsthand the remarkable artifacts that chronicle the rich history and heritage of Lorestan. With its reopening, the museum is poised to play a central role in the cultural landscape of the region once again.
