SAEDNEWS: Restoration of the southern gate of the UNESCO-listed Soltaniyeh Dome has begun, aiming to preserve the historic structure and enhance its cultural significance.
According to SAEDNEWS, The second stage of preservation and restoration efforts targeting the southern gate of the UNESCO-recognized Soltaniyeh Dome has officially started.
On Saturday, Abolfazl Ali, who oversees the Soltaniyeh World Heritage Base, reported the launch of a new stage in the conservation process of the southern gate of the monument, focusing on its safeguarding, strengthening, rehabilitation, and cultural interpretation—efforts projected to last until late November.
This phase is being executed by expert artisans from the site's internal heritage team. Ali explained that the project is a component of a comprehensive effort aimed at conserving one of the most distinguished Ilkhanid-era stone landmarks.
Additionally, restoration activities have expanded to include an adjacent stone citadel, with much of the essential repair work already finalized or approaching completion.
Ali expressed optimism that once restoration and ornamental enhancements are finished, the site will evolve into a dynamic center for cultural tourism with international appeal.
He further noted that despite the inherent difficulties, this restoration effort illustrates Iran’s lasting dedication to protecting its national heritage.
The Soltaniyeh Dome, an architectural feat commissioned by Oljaytu between 1302 and 1312 in Zanjan province, is celebrated as a masterpiece of Persian and Islamic design. Its eight-sided structure is crowned with a 50-meter-tall turquoise faience dome—the earliest recorded example of a double-shelled dome in Iran—flanked by eight slim minarets. The richly adorned interior has earned acclaim from art historians, including Arthur Upham Pope, who remarked on its visionary grandeur as a forerunner to the Taj Mahal.
UNESCO recognizes the Mausoleum of Oljaytu as a pivotal monument in the historical evolution of Islamic architecture in central and western Asia. It reflects a continuation and refinement of architectural innovations from the classical Seljuk period (11th to early 13th centuries), marking a time when Iranian artistic expression flourished and laid the groundwork for the later brilliance of the Timurid era. Of particular significance are the dome's double-layered design and the symbolic motifs found in its interior embellishments.
