Deputy Minister Declares National Commitment to Revitalize Cheshmeh-Ali Site

Reviving the Cheshmeh-Ali site is not merely a local initiative; it represents a national aspiration of the Iranian people to safeguard the historical identity of Rey, located in southern Tehran. This sentiment was expressed by Deputy Cultural Heritage Minister Ali Darabi during his recent visit to the Cheshmeh-Ali historical site.

Darabi emphasized the significance of Cheshmeh-Ali as one of the oldest human settlements in the region, playing a crucial role in the development of Rey’s civilization and that of Tehran over centuries. He stated, “Revival of Cheshmeh-Ali doesn’t only mean to return the water to it. Rather, it is an effort to return the historical identity and cultural spirit of Rey inhabitants.”

To support this ambitious project, Darabi highlighted the need for collaboration among various administrative bodies, including the Municipality and Subway Company. He remarked that these entities must work together to successfully implement the revitalization initiative.

The Subway Company has committed to providing the necessary funding to restore the water flow to the Cheshmeh-Ali site, which will breathe new life into the area. Darabi added, “Rey is of high importance in Iranian history. It is a city which is home to many poets, intellectuals and ancient memorials.”

In addition, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage is preparing a comprehensive dossier aiming for the potential registration of Rey on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Darabi noted, “Our colleagues in Tehran Cultural Heritage Department, in collaboration with specialized universities and scientific advisors, are conducting technical studies for compiling Rey dossier.” He expressed hope that with the support of local and national institutions, this significant objective would be realized by the next year.

Furthermore, Darabi pointed out the importance of revitalizing the old bazaar of Rey and restoring the historical surroundings of the Shah Abdol Azim Shrine. He remarked, “Cultural heritage is not merely monuments and walls. It also provides identity to generations.”

Cheshmeh-Ali, located near an ancient spring, is a historical and recreational site in the historical city of Rey. The mound, approximately seven meters high, stands adjacent to the remnants of the Islamic city walls of Rey, which soar to a height of 15 meters. This area is rich in history, with settlement records dating back to the 3rd millennium BC, as noted by Qadir Afrovand, the director of Rey National Heritage Base.

According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, Rey is one of the oldest cities on the central Iranian plateau, boasting a human settlement history that spans over 8,000 years. Rey is also referenced in the Avesta, the original text of Zoroastrianism, as a sacred location. Additionally, it is mentioned in the biblical Apocrypha’s book of Tobit and cited by classical authors.

• Historical Significance: Rey is home to numerous poets, intellectuals, and ancient memorials.
• UNESCO Registration: The Ministry of Cultural Heritage is preparing a dossier for Rey’s potential inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Collaboration: Various administrative bodies are urged to work together for the revival project.
• Cheshmeh-Ali: This site is crucial for understanding the cultural and historical identity of Rey.

The revival of the Cheshmeh-Ali site is a pivotal step towards preserving the rich cultural heritage of Rey and reinforcing its historical identity. As the efforts to restore this significant area continue, the collaboration between governmental bodies and the support from the community will be essential in achieving the desired outcomes. The historical legacy of Rey serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted cultural narratives that shape the identity of the Iranian people.

In conclusion, the initiatives to revitalize Cheshmeh-Ali demonstrate a commitment to honoring Iran’s past while paving the way for future generations to connect with their cultural heritage. The collective endeavor to restore this historical site not only enriches the local landscape but also reinforces the cultural fabric of the nation.