INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
TEHRAN - Nagarechi Hill situated in Nahavand country of Hamedan province is emerging as a pivotal archaeological site that could shed more
light on the Seleucid era in Iran.Iranian archaeologist Mohsen Khanjan has described the discovery of a tumulus-shaped tomb on this hill as
habitation, is home to numerous historical relics, with Nagarechi Hill being one of its most significant landmarks
Located southeast of Nahavand amidst orchards and farmland, this eight-meter-high circular mound is believed to date back to the Seleucid
According to Khanjan, the site is unparalleled in the country and may contain the burial of a prominent Seleucid figure, such as a
high-ranking general or satrap.Historical records, including a mention by Naser al-Din Shah, suggest the tomb was previously looted, leaving
understanding Seleucid architecture and burial customs
The discovery could fill gaps in knowledge about the Hellenistic influence on Iranian culture and attract international archaeological and
potential to redefine the narrative of the Seleucid era in Iran
However, further research has been hindered by financial constraints
ongoing archaeological activities, including a third excavation phase at Nagarechi Hill.According to Khanjan, the findings from the first
surviving Seleucid-era artifacts and architectural evidence in Iran makes Nagarechi Hill a unique research opportunity
Khanjan explained that discoveries here could reveal much about Seleucid funerary practices, architectural influences, and their integration
Such findings have the potential to transform Nahavand into a major archaeological and tourist destination.In addition, local officials are
urging immediate action to secure the necessary funding to continue excavations
height of about eight meters situated among orchards in the southeast of Nahavand
dark corners of the Seleucid period on the Iranian plateau.Over the past couple of years, Khanjan has led several archaeological seasons to
As mentioned by him, in addition to a Greek inscription, other significant objects such as bronze statues of Greek gods, a stone altar, a
we concluded that the history of the city of Nahavand goes far back in prehistoric times, contrary to what previously believed it only dates
on the people of Nahavand to obey the laws of the government
The inscription indicated the existence of the Laodicea Temple, which had been built by the Seleucid king who ruled Asia Minor, Antiochus
III the Great (223-187 BC), for his wife Queen Laodicea.Two of the inscriptions as well as four bronze statuettes unearthed at the site are
on display in the National Museum of Iran in downtown Tehran
Seleucid Empire was a Hellenistic state ruled by the Seleucid dynasty, which existed from 312 BC to 63 BC; Seleucus I Nicator founded it
following the division of the Macedonian Empire, vastly expanded by Alexander the Great
Seleucus received Babylonia (321 BC) and from there expanded his dominions to include much of Alexander's near-eastern territories
At the height of its power, the Empire included central Anatolia, Persia, the Levant, Mesopotamia, and what is now Kuwait, Afghanistan, and
parts of Pakistan and Turkmenistan.AM
