This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
Iran is revitalizing its tourism sector, which has suffered due to recent conflicts. Cultural Heritage Minister Reza Salehi-Amiri announced two national strategies and 14 operational mechanisms to boost tourism, aiming for Iran to be a top 20 tourist destination by 2025. The government plans to enhance domestic and foreign tourism, particularly in religious and medical sectors, with a target of $10 billion in foreign exchange. A new travel initiative will support affordable options for travelers, while Iran seeks to welcome 5 million tourists from Iraq. The government is also working on global recognition of its historical sites.
Iran’s pavilion at the 45th International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR 2025) is now open at IFEMA MADRID, showcasing the country’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Organized by the Touring and Automobile Club on behalf of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, the pavilion features 16 booths inspired by traditional Iranian art. Highlights include eco-tourism, health tourism, and traditional handicrafts. Iran aims to strengthen global partnerships and promote sustainable tourism through interactive sessions with international professionals. FITUR, inaugurated by Spain’s King and Prime Minister, runs through January 26, featuring over 120 countries and emphasizing innovation in the tourism sector.
Recent archaeological discoveries in Jiroft, an ancient city linked to the Saffarid and Seljuk dynasties, reveal its significant historical and cultural importance. Excavations led by Hamideh Choubak uncovered a 1,000-square-meter mosque, indicating growth due to a rising population. The site also revealed an altar and various structures, including a citadel and bathhouse. Jiroft, registered as a national heritage site, was a thriving urban center 1,200 years ago. Iran’s Minister of Cultural Heritage, Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, emphasized the need for global recognition of Jiroft’s civilization and announced an International Conference on Jiroft Civilization for 2025 to highlight its archaeological significance.
A rare carpet woven by Qajar-era schoolgirls was unveiled at the Carpet Museum of Iran during Tehran Week, celebrated from October 3 to 9. Created in 1925 by talented young artists, the carpet features vibrant patterns and inscriptions reflecting Tehran’s cultural identity, including the names “Tehran” and “Persian Gulf.” Museum director Mohammad Javad Inanlou emphasized its historical significance and urged visitors to engage with it. The museum, housing around 2,000 carpets, showcases Iran’s rich textile artistry, highlighting the dedication and craftsmanship of Persian weavers. The exhibit serves as a reminder of the cultural heritage of Tehran and Iran.
Kandelous village in Iran’s Mazandaran province, known as “The Lost Paradise,” is a historical and ecological treasure. One of Iran’s oldest settlements, it reflects rich heritage through its charming architecture and preserved essence. The village is famous for its Medicinal Plant Farms, nurturing over 250 species of herbs, and offers visitors authentic Iranian cuisine and vibrant handicraft markets. The Kandelous Anthropology Museum, founded by Dr. Aliasghar Jahangiri, houses over 8,000 artifacts, linking the past with the present. Gaining global recognition, Kandelous is nominated for the UN’s Global Village title and aspires for UNESCO designation, showcasing its cultural significance.
Archaeological excavations have begun at Chogha Golan, a significant Neolithic site in Iran’s Ilam province. Led by Hojjat Darabi, the project aims to uncover evidence from the 9th and 8th millennia BC, enhancing understanding of early agriculture and sedentary life. The team has already found mudbrick structures, numerous lithic tools, clay figurines, and animal and plant remains. Chogha Golan, spanning 5.5 hectares, is the largest Neolithic site in Iran, crucial for studying early human settlements and domestication processes. Ongoing work is expected to significantly contribute to Near Eastern archaeology and the understanding of human civilization’s evolution.