Shattered tiles, trembling domes: An inside look at how the war has damaged Iran's historic sites
The impact of the blast waves was further exacerbated by the age and fragility of the historic structures, many of which were not designed to withstand such intense forces. In the case of the Chehel Sotoun Palace, the 400-year-old wooden columns and beams were particularly vulnerable to the shockwaves, causing significant damage to the building's foundation and framework.
Experts warn that even if the physical structure of a building remains intact, the blast waves can still cause irreparable damage to the delicate plasterwork, murals, and other decorative elements that are an integral part of Iran's cultural heritage.
In the aftermath of the airstrikes, Iranian authorities have been working to assess the full extent of the damage and develop a plan for restoration and preservation of the affected sites. However, the task is complicated by the limited availability of skilled craftsmen and materials, as well as the need to balance preservation with the demands of modernization and development.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that many of the damaged sites are not only culturally significant but also hold important historical and religious significance, making their preservation a sensitive and complex issue.
As the international community begins to take stock of the damage inflicted on Iran's cultural heritage, there are growing calls for greater protection and preservation of these sites, not just in Iran but around the world.
The UN cultural body has reiterated its commitment to protecting cultural property and has called on all parties to respect international law and take necessary measures to prevent damage to cultural heritage.
However, the challenge of balancing military objectives with the need to protect cultural heritage sites remains a complex and contentious issue, with no easy solutions in sight.
In the meantime, the people of Iran are left to pick up the pieces and wonder what the future holds for their treasured cultural monuments, many of which have been damaged or destroyed in the conflict.
The Iranian government has pledged to rebuild and restore the damaged sites, but the process is expected to be long and difficult, requiring significant resources and expertise.
As the world watches, Iran's cultural heritage hangs in the balance, a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of protecting our shared cultural heritage.
The blast wave's impact on structures can be devastating, causing downward pressure on roofs and inward pressure on walls, which can lead to collapse. The Israel Defense Forces acknowledged targeting the governor's office in Isfahan, located near the UNESCO-listed palace complex, stating that they operate in accordance with international law and target only military objectives.
According to the IDF, their strikes are based on reliable intelligence, operational verification, and established approval processes, and are carried out in accordance with applicable international law. However, experts in Middle Eastern archaeology and preservation of heritage sites argue that the recent targeting practices show a clear shift away from protecting internationally recognized historical landmarks.
Historical landmarks would typically be included on "no strike lists," and targeting them would require a compelling military necessity and high-level approval. The damage to cultural sites in Iran is extensive, with sites such as Tehran's Golestan Palace and bazaar, Isfahan's Naqsh-e Jahan Square, and the Chehel Sotoun complex all suffering damage.
Mehrnoush Soroush, director of the Center for Ancient Middle Eastern Landscapes, confirmed damage to additional sites, including the Jameh Mosque in Isfahan and the Andimeshk railway station. UNESCO also confirmed extensive damage to the ancient fortress of Falak-ol-Aflak in western Iran. Iran's UNESCO representative provided a list of 134 cultural heritage sites that were damaged, including popular tourist attractions that bring in millions of visitors each year.
Many of these sites were marked with giant blue shields, an internationally recognized symbol denoting their protected status as cultural heritage. The use of blue shields is intended to alert military forces to the presence of cultural heritage sites and to prevent damage to them. Despite these efforts, the war has resulted in significant damage to Iran's cultural heritage, highlighting the need for greater protection and preservation of these sites.
Farshid Emami, an associate professor of art history at Rice University, expressed his dismay at the destruction of cultural sites in Iran, stating that these are not military sites. In contrast, Anna Kelly, a White House spokeswoman, emphasized that the US operation in Iran, dubbed "Operation Epic Fury," aims to destroy Iran's ballistic missiles, demolish production facilities, and weaken their proxies, while ensuring they cannot possess a nuclear weapon. Kelly also asserted that the US does not target civilians, unlike Iran.
The 1954 Hague Convention explicitly protects cultural heritage sites during armed conflict, considering the intentional targeting of civilian cultural property a war crime. This treaty highlights the importance of carefully weighing the potential damage to nearby targets. The UNESCO designation, which covers a small minority of culturally significant buildings and monuments, is a notable example of international efforts to safeguard cultural heritage.
Iran has 27 sites listed by UNESCO, ranging from ancient monuments to historical cities. In comparison, Italy has 55 listed sites, while countries like Uganda and Costa Rica have only one. The destruction of cultural sites is not unique to the current conflict in Iran, as seen in the example of Iraq, where the ancient city of Babylon was damaged during the US-led war. Coalition forces used Babylon as a military base, causing further destruction to the site.
The US withdrawal from UNESCO in 2017 and again in 2025, citing the organization's support for "woke, divisive cultural and social causes," has raised concerns about the protection of cultural heritage sites. The 2025 action is set to take effect at the end of this year. In Syria, US-led coalition forces bombed the eighth-century walls of Raqqa in 2017, highlighting the vulnerability of cultural sites in conflict zones.
Stephennie Mulder, a professor of Islamic art and architecture, noted that the current situation feels more devastating than past conflicts, with a sense of disregard for cultural heritage. She is among over 400 scholars and researchers who signed a letter condemning the damage to cultural sites in Iran. The letter highlights the need for greater protection and preservation of these sites, which are not only significant to Iran but also to the world's cultural heritage.
The city of Isfahan, with its rich cultural history, is a prime example of the importance of protecting cultural heritage sites. As a cultural jewel, Isfahan draws comparisons to historical centers like Rome, Athens, and Kyoto. The city's strategic location, with one of Iran's nuclear sites, has made it a focal point in the conflict. However, its cultural significance extends beyond its modern importance, with a history that spans centuries and a unique architectural style that reflects its Persian heritage.
The destruction caused by the bombings in Isfahan has sparked widespread concern among cultural heritage experts, with many calling for a more thorough investigation into the damage. Emami emphasized that a detailed assessment is necessary to determine the full extent of the damage to the foundations of the buildings in Naqsh-e Jahan square. This concern is shared by other experts, who stress that any damage to these cultural sites could have long-lasting and far-reaching consequences.
The proximity of the bombings to cultural heritage sites has raised questions about the military's targeting protocols. According to international law, military forces are required to take all feasible precautions to avoid or minimize harm to cultural property. The U.S. Committee of the Blue Shield has worked with the American military in the past to provide training on the protection of cultural sites during conflict.
Patty Gerstenblith, the committee's leader, noted that the obligation to avoid targeting cultural heritage sites is a universal one, applying to all countries. She added that the committee had previously worked with troops to prepare informational materials on cultural sites in areas such as Mosul and Raqqa, ahead of military operations. However, without more information on the specific circumstances of the strikes in Iran, it is difficult to assess whether the military's actions were appropriate.
The Ali Qapu Palace, located on the west side of Naqsh-e Jahan square, is a notable example of the cultural heritage sites that have been affected by the conflict. As the most famous example of an architectural style from Iran's Safavid dynasty, it is a significant cultural treasure that requires protection. The initial assessment by Isfahan heritage authorities has found that the bombings caused structural damage to the foundations of buildings in the square, although this finding has not been independently confirmed.
As the situation in Iran continues to unfold, cultural heritage experts are calling for greater protection and preservation of the country's cultural sites. The importance of these sites extends beyond their historical and cultural significance, as they also play a crucial role in promoting cultural understanding and exchange. The international community must work together to ensure that these sites are protected and preserved for future generations.
At Ali Qapu Palace, the bombings in early March caused significant damage, with a terrace overlooking the vast square, its music chamber, marble fountain, and 18 wooden columns all affected. Heritage officials' pictures showed a crumbled wall, cracks on the body of the building, and shattered glass. The initial assessment found that over 70% of the glass in windows and doors was broken, and the plaster of two porches had separated from the main structure.
The Shah Mosque, located at the southern edge of the square, also suffered damage, with its two minarets shaken by the bombings. According to Ali Bordbar, who witnessed the March 7 bombing, the site's double dome and archway were affected. "It took hundreds of years to build this site," Bordbar said. "In one moment it can be destroyed." Employees at the mosque reported that pieces of blue tiles had fallen off, and a picture attached to the damage assessment showed a crack in one of the mosque walls.
The economic consequences of the war are also being felt, with an artisan silver engraver in the bazaar stating that lost tourism revenue has been devastating. "This war paralyzed us," the engraver said. During a visit to the bazaar, the main alleys were found to be almost empty of visitors, except for young men running and cycling through the passageways. In the afternoon, artists and musicians set up in the bazaar, and a few visitors arrived.
Many Iranians are careful when speaking about the damage to historic sites, but some expressed their distress. Saeed, a 32-year-old who sells nougat in the bazaar, said that the airstrikes broke all of the windows and glass in his shop. He declined to express any specific opinion about the war, saying only, "We are waiting for a happy ending."
In Tehran, the Golestan Palace, a centuries-old royal complex, was also affected by the conflict. The palace, which is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, suffered damage when American and Israeli forces struck Tehran's judicial buildings on the night of March 1. The palace became a sea of debris, with shattered wooden artwork and mirrors knocked down from the ceiling. An archeology employee who has worked in the palace for nearly 30 years described the morning after the attacks, saying she was "in shock, and frozen in place amid the glass." The throne room and hall of mirrors were among the areas that sustained significant damage from blast waves.
The judiciary in Tehran is notorious for sentencing young Iranian men and women who have dared to oppose the regime to long prison sentences and executions. The judicial building that came under attack was nearly 300 meters away from the palace.
When the palace was visited in March, two weeks after it was ravaged, a female employee paced the halls, voicing fears about damage invisible to even her trained eye.
No one was killed in the blasts but two employees suffered minor injuries, the employee said.
After 15 minutes, she suddenly said it was time for everyone to leave – and quickly. She scurried ahead and pointed at the ceiling which, she said, might collapse at any moment.
Israel's actions have also had an impact on heritage sites across south Lebanon, according to a minister.
A bombed Iranian girls' school had a notable online presence, with a vivid website that showcased its activities over the years.
The ongoing conflict has raised questions about the goals of the war with Iran and whether they have been achieved.
In a recent statement, a leader warned that 'a whole civilization will die tonight' if Iran does not make a deal.
The situation remains complex, with various parties involved and different perspectives on the conflict.
As the conflict continues, concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage sites and the impact on civilians remain a major issue.
The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The damage to historic sites and the humanitarian crisis will likely have long-term consequences for the region.
Efforts to document and preserve the damaged sites are underway, but the task is daunting.
The road to recovery will be long and challenging, requiring cooperation and support from the international community.
Experts warn that even if the physical structure of a building remains intact, the blast waves can still cause irreparable damage to the delicate plasterwork, murals, and other decorative elements that are an integral part of Iran's cultural heritage.
In the aftermath of the airstrikes, Iranian authorities have been working to assess the full extent of the damage and develop a plan for restoration and preservation of the affected sites. However, the task is complicated by the limited availability of skilled craftsmen and materials, as well as the need to balance preservation with the demands of modernization and development.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that many of the damaged sites are not only culturally significant but also hold important historical and religious significance, making their preservation a sensitive and complex issue.
As the international community begins to take stock of the damage inflicted on Iran's cultural heritage, there are growing calls for greater protection and preservation of these sites, not just in Iran but around the world.
The UN cultural body has reiterated its commitment to protecting cultural property and has called on all parties to respect international law and take necessary measures to prevent damage to cultural heritage.
However, the challenge of balancing military objectives with the need to protect cultural heritage sites remains a complex and contentious issue, with no easy solutions in sight.
In the meantime, the people of Iran are left to pick up the pieces and wonder what the future holds for their treasured cultural monuments, many of which have been damaged or destroyed in the conflict.
The Iranian government has pledged to rebuild and restore the damaged sites, but the process is expected to be long and difficult, requiring significant resources and expertise.
As the world watches, Iran's cultural heritage hangs in the balance, a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war and the importance of protecting our shared cultural heritage.
The blast wave's impact on structures can be devastating, causing downward pressure on roofs and inward pressure on walls, which can lead to collapse. The Israel Defense Forces acknowledged targeting the governor's office in Isfahan, located near the UNESCO-listed palace complex, stating that they operate in accordance with international law and target only military objectives.
According to the IDF, their strikes are based on reliable intelligence, operational verification, and established approval processes, and are carried out in accordance with applicable international law. However, experts in Middle Eastern archaeology and preservation of heritage sites argue that the recent targeting practices show a clear shift away from protecting internationally recognized historical landmarks.
Historical landmarks would typically be included on "no strike lists," and targeting them would require a compelling military necessity and high-level approval. The damage to cultural sites in Iran is extensive, with sites such as Tehran's Golestan Palace and bazaar, Isfahan's Naqsh-e Jahan Square, and the Chehel Sotoun complex all suffering damage.
Mehrnoush Soroush, director of the Center for Ancient Middle Eastern Landscapes, confirmed damage to additional sites, including the Jameh Mosque in Isfahan and the Andimeshk railway station. UNESCO also confirmed extensive damage to the ancient fortress of Falak-ol-Aflak in western Iran. Iran's UNESCO representative provided a list of 134 cultural heritage sites that were damaged, including popular tourist attractions that bring in millions of visitors each year.
Many of these sites were marked with giant blue shields, an internationally recognized symbol denoting their protected status as cultural heritage. The use of blue shields is intended to alert military forces to the presence of cultural heritage sites and to prevent damage to them. Despite these efforts, the war has resulted in significant damage to Iran's cultural heritage, highlighting the need for greater protection and preservation of these sites.
Farshid Emami, an associate professor of art history at Rice University, expressed his dismay at the destruction of cultural sites in Iran, stating that these are not military sites. In contrast, Anna Kelly, a White House spokeswoman, emphasized that the US operation in Iran, dubbed "Operation Epic Fury," aims to destroy Iran's ballistic missiles, demolish production facilities, and weaken their proxies, while ensuring they cannot possess a nuclear weapon. Kelly also asserted that the US does not target civilians, unlike Iran.
The 1954 Hague Convention explicitly protects cultural heritage sites during armed conflict, considering the intentional targeting of civilian cultural property a war crime. This treaty highlights the importance of carefully weighing the potential damage to nearby targets. The UNESCO designation, which covers a small minority of culturally significant buildings and monuments, is a notable example of international efforts to safeguard cultural heritage.
Iran has 27 sites listed by UNESCO, ranging from ancient monuments to historical cities. In comparison, Italy has 55 listed sites, while countries like Uganda and Costa Rica have only one. The destruction of cultural sites is not unique to the current conflict in Iran, as seen in the example of Iraq, where the ancient city of Babylon was damaged during the US-led war. Coalition forces used Babylon as a military base, causing further destruction to the site.
The US withdrawal from UNESCO in 2017 and again in 2025, citing the organization's support for "woke, divisive cultural and social causes," has raised concerns about the protection of cultural heritage sites. The 2025 action is set to take effect at the end of this year. In Syria, US-led coalition forces bombed the eighth-century walls of Raqqa in 2017, highlighting the vulnerability of cultural sites in conflict zones.
Stephennie Mulder, a professor of Islamic art and architecture, noted that the current situation feels more devastating than past conflicts, with a sense of disregard for cultural heritage. She is among over 400 scholars and researchers who signed a letter condemning the damage to cultural sites in Iran. The letter highlights the need for greater protection and preservation of these sites, which are not only significant to Iran but also to the world's cultural heritage.
The city of Isfahan, with its rich cultural history, is a prime example of the importance of protecting cultural heritage sites. As a cultural jewel, Isfahan draws comparisons to historical centers like Rome, Athens, and Kyoto. The city's strategic location, with one of Iran's nuclear sites, has made it a focal point in the conflict. However, its cultural significance extends beyond its modern importance, with a history that spans centuries and a unique architectural style that reflects its Persian heritage.
The destruction caused by the bombings in Isfahan has sparked widespread concern among cultural heritage experts, with many calling for a more thorough investigation into the damage. Emami emphasized that a detailed assessment is necessary to determine the full extent of the damage to the foundations of the buildings in Naqsh-e Jahan square. This concern is shared by other experts, who stress that any damage to these cultural sites could have long-lasting and far-reaching consequences.
The proximity of the bombings to cultural heritage sites has raised questions about the military's targeting protocols. According to international law, military forces are required to take all feasible precautions to avoid or minimize harm to cultural property. The U.S. Committee of the Blue Shield has worked with the American military in the past to provide training on the protection of cultural sites during conflict.
Patty Gerstenblith, the committee's leader, noted that the obligation to avoid targeting cultural heritage sites is a universal one, applying to all countries. She added that the committee had previously worked with troops to prepare informational materials on cultural sites in areas such as Mosul and Raqqa, ahead of military operations. However, without more information on the specific circumstances of the strikes in Iran, it is difficult to assess whether the military's actions were appropriate.
The Ali Qapu Palace, located on the west side of Naqsh-e Jahan square, is a notable example of the cultural heritage sites that have been affected by the conflict. As the most famous example of an architectural style from Iran's Safavid dynasty, it is a significant cultural treasure that requires protection. The initial assessment by Isfahan heritage authorities has found that the bombings caused structural damage to the foundations of buildings in the square, although this finding has not been independently confirmed.
As the situation in Iran continues to unfold, cultural heritage experts are calling for greater protection and preservation of the country's cultural sites. The importance of these sites extends beyond their historical and cultural significance, as they also play a crucial role in promoting cultural understanding and exchange. The international community must work together to ensure that these sites are protected and preserved for future generations.
At Ali Qapu Palace, the bombings in early March caused significant damage, with a terrace overlooking the vast square, its music chamber, marble fountain, and 18 wooden columns all affected. Heritage officials' pictures showed a crumbled wall, cracks on the body of the building, and shattered glass. The initial assessment found that over 70% of the glass in windows and doors was broken, and the plaster of two porches had separated from the main structure.
The Shah Mosque, located at the southern edge of the square, also suffered damage, with its two minarets shaken by the bombings. According to Ali Bordbar, who witnessed the March 7 bombing, the site's double dome and archway were affected. "It took hundreds of years to build this site," Bordbar said. "In one moment it can be destroyed." Employees at the mosque reported that pieces of blue tiles had fallen off, and a picture attached to the damage assessment showed a crack in one of the mosque walls.
The economic consequences of the war are also being felt, with an artisan silver engraver in the bazaar stating that lost tourism revenue has been devastating. "This war paralyzed us," the engraver said. During a visit to the bazaar, the main alleys were found to be almost empty of visitors, except for young men running and cycling through the passageways. In the afternoon, artists and musicians set up in the bazaar, and a few visitors arrived.
Many Iranians are careful when speaking about the damage to historic sites, but some expressed their distress. Saeed, a 32-year-old who sells nougat in the bazaar, said that the airstrikes broke all of the windows and glass in his shop. He declined to express any specific opinion about the war, saying only, "We are waiting for a happy ending."
In Tehran, the Golestan Palace, a centuries-old royal complex, was also affected by the conflict. The palace, which is listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO, suffered damage when American and Israeli forces struck Tehran's judicial buildings on the night of March 1. The palace became a sea of debris, with shattered wooden artwork and mirrors knocked down from the ceiling. An archeology employee who has worked in the palace for nearly 30 years described the morning after the attacks, saying she was "in shock, and frozen in place amid the glass." The throne room and hall of mirrors were among the areas that sustained significant damage from blast waves.
The judiciary in Tehran is notorious for sentencing young Iranian men and women who have dared to oppose the regime to long prison sentences and executions. The judicial building that came under attack was nearly 300 meters away from the palace.
When the palace was visited in March, two weeks after it was ravaged, a female employee paced the halls, voicing fears about damage invisible to even her trained eye.
No one was killed in the blasts but two employees suffered minor injuries, the employee said.
After 15 minutes, she suddenly said it was time for everyone to leave – and quickly. She scurried ahead and pointed at the ceiling which, she said, might collapse at any moment.
Israel's actions have also had an impact on heritage sites across south Lebanon, according to a minister.
A bombed Iranian girls' school had a notable online presence, with a vivid website that showcased its activities over the years.
The ongoing conflict has raised questions about the goals of the war with Iran and whether they have been achieved.
In a recent statement, a leader warned that 'a whole civilization will die tonight' if Iran does not make a deal.
The situation remains complex, with various parties involved and different perspectives on the conflict.
As the conflict continues, concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage sites and the impact on civilians remain a major issue.
The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The damage to historic sites and the humanitarian crisis will likely have long-term consequences for the region.
Efforts to document and preserve the damaged sites are underway, but the task is daunting.
The road to recovery will be long and challenging, requiring cooperation and support from the international community.
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