An ancient site in Iran is under threat due to heavy rainfall and ground subsidence

The ancient archaeological site of Naqsh-e Rostam in Iran's Fars Province faces the threat of collapse due to damage caused by ground subsidence aggravated by recent rainfall. Situated near the renowned ruins of Persepolis, this site holds the tombs of Achaemenid kings like Darius the Great and Xerxes and features a rich collection of rock reliefs spanning various Iranian dynasties.

The subsidence has resulted in deep cracks, measuring 50-70cm in depth, emerging within 10-15m of these invaluable historical landmarks. Despite the efforts to fill the cracks with sand and gravel, they reappear, endangering the stability of the rock face and the artworks they harbor.

Iran has dispatched specialized teams in monitoring, protection, restoration, and archaeology to address the environmental damage and minimize its impact. Alireza Askari, an official associated with the site, stated that preserving this pivotal aspect of Iranian cultural heritage is an unwavering commitment.

Preservation of such sites has been a contentious issue in Iran, particularly since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which brought about a shift in attitudes toward pre-Islamic relics. Just recently, the Deputy Minister of Iran's Cultural Heritage expressed concern over insufficient funds allocated for maintaining critical sites.

Ali Darabi lamented that last year, only 900,000 Tomans ($200) were allocated for the preservation and restoration of historical sites, and a mere 13 million Tomans ($3,000) for monuments. Despite boasting 27 UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, Iran faces challenges in safeguarding its cultural heritage, as the regime prioritizes its military budget amid a severe economic crisis.