Protecting Persepolis: Urgent Initiative Launched to Combat Erosion Threats
Iran is taking significant steps to safeguard and enhance Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Fars province. As concerns grow regarding the erosion of its ancient stone reliefs, the site’s director, Mohammad-Javad Jafari, announced that a comprehensive management and conservation plan is nearing completion. This initiative is crucial for preserving the historical integrity of Persepolis and ensuring its longevity for future generations.
On Tuesday, Jafari, who heads the Persepolis World Heritage base, shared updates on the management plan, stating that it is currently under review. It will soon be presented to the site’s strategic council for final approval, as reported by the Mehr news agency. He emphasized the seriousness of the erosion issue, calling it a significant national concern.
“We recognize the concerns about erosion of the stone reliefs at Persepolis as a serious national issue,” Jafari said. “That is why the master plan, which had been drafted earlier, is now being revised and finalized to serve as a comprehensive framework for management and conservation.”
As part of the conservation efforts, approximately 57 hectares of land surrounding Persepolis have been acquired. This land will be utilized for:
- Tourism infrastructure
- Access management
- Service upgrades
These measures are designed to prevent unregulated development and ensure the long-term protection of both the site and its buffer zone. Jafari noted that international collaboration in conservation efforts began several years ago with teams from Italy. However, Iranian experts have since taken the lead, employing localized materials and innovative technologies to carry out restoration and preservation work.
In addition to the management plan, the Ministry of Cultural Heritage has mandated the establishment of a new independent national base at the nearby Istakhr archaeological site. This initiative will facilitate systematic excavations and ongoing research, further enhancing the understanding of this historical area.
Recent preservation projects at Persepolis include the expansion of the Persepolis Museum, which is set to unveil a new 400-square-metre gallery this autumn. Other active restoration workshops are taking place at significant locations such as:
- The tomb of Xerxes
- The eastern portico of the Apadana Palace
- The Tripylon or Council Hall
Additionally, work is slated to commence at the Hadish Palace, the Hundred-Column Hall, and the southern terrace inscription. “Moss removal is also underway on the northern portico of the Apadana,” Jafari added.
Furthermore, the entrance axis to Persepolis is undergoing redevelopment, coordinated with officials from Marvdasht county. The first phase of this project is expected to open before the Persian New Year in March 2026. Plans are also in place for night lighting, a landscaped complex, and improved access to Naqsh-e Rostam, which will enhance the visitor experience.
“Protecting Persepolis is both a national and global responsibility,” Jafari stated. “We aim to address concerns and move forward with a scientific, coordinated, and sustainable approach, while paving the way for the return of international experts and joint research projects.”
Persepolis, historically known as Takht-e Jamshid, was established by Darius the Great around 518 BC as the ceremonial capital of the Achaemenid Empire. Located approximately 60 km northeast of Shiraz, the vast terrace and palatial complex was tragically destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330 BC. Today, its ruins, including the Apadana Palace and the Hundred-Column Hall, are celebrated as one of the world’s most important archaeological sites, drawing visitors and researchers from around the globe.
