Zandieh Complex Set for UNESCO Registration: A Cultural Landmark on the Rise!
In an exciting development for heritage enthusiasts, the Zandieh Complex in Shiraz is on the path towards being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, one significant challenge remains: the Aseman Hotel, which disrupts the stunning skyline that surrounds this historical gem.
The Zandieh Complex, established by Mohammad Karim Khan Zand (r. 1751-1779), is a prominent memorial site, housing some of the most important structures in Shiraz, including the renowned Karim Khan Citadel. This architectural marvel has long attracted visitors, contributing to Shiraz’s reputation as a cultural and historical hub in Iran.
Despite being recognized as the cultural capital of ancient Iran and home to 13 UNESCO World Heritage sites, Shiraz has yet to have any of its historical monuments independently listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The only exception is the Eram Garden, which is acknowledged as part of the Persian Gardens dossier.
The Zandieh Complex, however, provides Shiraz with an opportunity to enhance its visibility on the global tourism stage. The complex comprises:
- Karim Khan Citadel
- Vakil Mosque
- Vakil Bazaar
- Divankhaneh Mansion
- Naghareh Khaneh Square
All of these remarkable structures were constructed during the reign of Karim Khan Zand over 220 years ago. The Zandieh Complex is a favorite among tourists and consistently ranks as one of the top five visited sites during peak travel seasons like summer and Nowruz.
During a visit to Shiraz in November 2024, Reza Salehi-Amiri, the Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts, emphasized the importance of advancing the global registration of the Zandieh Complex, stating, “Karim Khan Citadel is developing and moving towards global registration.”
Sadeq Zare, the Head of the Fars Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department, echoed these sentiments, affirming that the global registration of the Zandieh Complex is a top priority for his department. He also mentioned that Shiraz Municipality is committed to bringing this initiative to fruition.
Zare highlighted the necessary steps for world registration, stating:
- Completing the necessary dossier.
- Inviting UNESCO assessors to evaluate the site’s condition.
He further noted that the manager responsible for the global registration file has been appointed and is in the process of securing funding and finalizing contracts, a crucial step in progressing the registration process.
Following the completion of the dossier, a checklist for world registration must be prepared. This checklist will include essential documents, maps, and records of any restoration work conducted on the complex.
Once these requirements are met, UNESCO assessors will be invited to review the site. Should any issues arise, they will be addressed during this stage. Zare mentioned that the municipality has agreed to assist with this process, and a meeting will soon convene involving officials from various sectors to finalize plans for the monument’s registration.
However, a significant hurdle hinders the global registration of the Zandieh Complex: the Aseman Hotel, located on Rudaki Street, just behind the Karim Khan Citadel. The hotel, with its 18 floors, has been criticized for obstructing the majestic view of the historical citadel, creating a visual distortion that many cultural heritage advocates argue needs to be resolved.
The construction of Aseman Hotel began in 2001 with an initial six floors, but its height was subsequently increased in two stages, ultimately resulting in its current 18 floors. This towering structure now looms over the citadel, negatively impacting the historical site’s visibility from several angles.
In Spring 2015, the Supreme Council of Urban Planning and Architecture of Iran issued a permit to demolish the top four floors of the hotel, which had been constructed without the necessary legal permissions. Unfortunately, this order has yet to be implemented, leaving the hotel as a contentious issue in the ongoing efforts to achieve global recognition for the Zandieh Complex.
As the campaign for UNESCO recognition continues, the Zandieh Complex stands as a testament to Iran’s rich heritage, waiting to take its rightful place among the world’s recognized historical sites.
