The government news agency ILNA reported on the threat of destruction to the thousand-year-old cemetery in Shiraz, stating that 'the municipality of Shiraz has extended the second metro line, which was supposed to stop one kilometer from Hafez's tomb during the fifth city council term, to 500 meters from the Hafeziyeh.' ILNA emphasized that this action was taken without obtaining the necessary permits from the Fars governorate and without approval from the Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts. The destruction of historical and ancient sites in Shiraz has repeatedly made headlines, the most significant being the expansion plan for the religious site of Shah Cheragh, which in July 2022, an official news agency in Iran reported the expropriation of '35 valuable and national buildings' and the 'demolition' of the historical fabric of Shiraz under the pretext of the 'Inter-Haramain Plan,' but for the construction of 'hotels, a city council hall, and a shopping mall.' Nowruz 1403; gatherings, dancing, and joy of thousands of citizens in Persepolis and Hafeziyeh Shiraz continue the controversies of 'a proposal in Hafeziyeh Shiraz'; the governorate: it was a preparation for the repetition of the '2500-year celebrations.' Destruction of ancient artifacts: 'cracking' of historical buildings in Kashmar due to an earthquake; construction by people in the ancient area of Kolandi in Chabahar. The government's neglect of ancient and national artifacts in Iran; the crown of the relief of Bahram II Sasanian was destroyed.
Metro Station Reaches Hafez's Tomb; Threat of Destruction to Thousand-Year-Old Cemetery in Shiraz
The Shiraz municipality has extended the metro line dangerously close to Hafez's tomb without proper permits, raising concerns about the destruction of the historic cemetery. This follows a pattern of neglect and destruction of cultural heritage in Iran, highlighting ongoing tensions between development and preservation. The situation is significant as it reflects broader issues of cultural heritage management in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The Shiraz municipality has extended the metro line closer to Hafez's tomb without the necessary permits, raising concerns about the potential destruction of the historic cemetery. This action is part of a broader trend of neglecting cultural heritage in Iran.
- The metro line extension is now only 500 meters from Hafez's tomb.
- The project proceeded without approval from relevant cultural heritage authorities.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has a rich history and numerous ancient sites, but there is ongoing tension between development projects and the preservation of these sites. Recent actions have seen significant cultural landmarks threatened by urban expansion.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 85%