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This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
This article will be expanded with more detailed information shortly.
In southeastern Iran, the ancient tradition of honoring qanats, subterranean aqueducts critical for life in arid regions, has been revitalized after fifty years. The city of Bam recently celebrated the National Day of Qanats with a ceremony featuring flower casting and rosewater sprinkling over the waters, coinciding with the peak flow period post-Nowruz. This revival, initiated in 2022, emphasizes the importance of preserving qanats, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Participants expressed gratitude for ancestral knowledge, aiming to instill appreciation in younger generations while highlighting the qanats’ cultural significance and their role in sustainable water management.
The demand for authentic handicrafts is rising in Yazd, Iran, recognized as a hub of traditional artistry. Prominent exporter Majid Yavari emphasizes that Yazd can become a leading player in the handicraft export market with strategic planning and branding. Key sectors include Termeh and Darayee weaving, Meybod pottery, Zilo weaving, Khatamkari, and calligraphy, catering to international markets in Europe, Canada, and the Persian Gulf. A shift to online sales is helping young artists reach global buyers. Yavari believes that combining artistic talent with effective management will enhance Yazd’s standing in the global handicraft market, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
Iran celebrates Persian Gulf National Day every year on the 10th of Ordibehesht, reflecting on the historical and cultural significance of this strategic waterway. This year’s celebration on April 30 commemorated the 1622 victory when Iranian forces expelled Portuguese troops from the Strait of Hormuz. The Persian Gulf, a cradle of ancient civilizations and a hub for trade, sustains vibrant communities along its coast. It is renowned for its oil reserves and natural beauty, including preserved beaches and mangrove forests. The region’s cultural diversity and historical legacy continue to shape Iran’s national identity and geopolitical importance.
Iran is actively enhancing its tourism sector by inviting Malaysia’s Tourism Minister Tiong King Sing to strengthen cultural and economic ties. During a visit, Iran’s advisor Rouzbeh Kardouni discussed opportunities for collaboration, including participation in the “Matta Fair” in March 2026 and inviting Malaysia to Iran’s International Tourism Exhibition in February 2026. They proposed establishing direct flights between Tehran and Kuala Lumpur and extending visa validity for travelers from 14 to 30 days by summer 2025. A memorandum of understanding on tourism cooperation was also proposed, aiming to boost bilateral relations and tourism offerings for both nations.
Recent excavations at Dagh Island in Aysak, South Khorasan, have revealed significant Acheulean artifacts, including hand axes dating back nearly 500,000 years, reshaping our understanding of human settlement in eastern Iran. Ahmad Barabadi of the South Khorasan Cultural Heritage Department noted these findings mark a new chapter in regional archaeology. The artifacts, including Middle and Upper Paleolithic tools, highlight eastern Iran’s role in early human evolution. As explorations conclude, officials stress the need to protect these discoveries and promote the region as a hub for scientific and historical tourism, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
The Anahita Temple in Bishapour, Fars province, is a remarkable example of ancient architectural ingenuity, built during the Sassanid era under King Shapur I. Registered as a national monument in 1931 and a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2018, the temple features a sophisticated water circulation system essential for its worship functions. Recognized as a water temple dedicated to the goddess Anahita, it showcases unique design elements, including symmetry and complex water management. The temple’s underground structure extends three levels, revealing advanced engineering techniques. It stands as a vital link to ancient Persian spirituality and cultural heritage, attracting scholars and tourists alike.