The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)  has the archaeological remains of Hegmataneh (also known as Ecbatana) northwest of Iran on its World Heritage List, marking the country's 28th inscription. 

Hegmataneh, known in antiquity as Ecbatana, is a site of immense historical significance located in modern-day Hamadan, Iran. This ancient city, believed to be the capital of the Medes and later a significant administrative center for subsequent empires, offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of ancient Near Eastern civilizations.

The ancient site was inscribed during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, which is currently underway in New Delhi, India, July 21-31.

Ecbatana has a history spanning more than 3,000 years and was the capital of the Median Empire. Later, it served as a summer capital for the Achaemenid, Seleucid, Parthian, and Sasanian empires.

The site provides significant archaeological evidence of these civilisations, including a massive defensive wall and a checkerboard urban plan.

Iran’s original dossier contained a larger area within Hamedan’s historic inner city, including Hegmataneh’s old bazaar and 140 historical sites. But the site was eventually inscribed as Hegmataneh alone.

Iran’s deputy minister of tourism, Ali Darabi, said on July 27 that the designation would create enough protection for the city’s historic neighbourhood.

Iran already had 27 sites on the coveted list and over 50 more on the tentative list to be considered later for nomination. Initially, the Islamic Republic, after the revolution, attempted to downplay pre-Islamic Iran as the former regime of the Shah of Iran promoted it but in recent years, the government have acknowledged the rich history of the country as a tourism driver.   

Hegmataneh is renowned for its impressive fortifications and grand architectural structures. The city was reportedly encircled by seven concentric walls, each painted in a different colour, symbolising various planets and celestial bodies—a testament to the sophisticated astronomical knowledge of the time.

Excavations in the area have unearthed a wealth of artefacts, including inscriptions, pottery, and remains of ancient buildings. These discoveries have provided valuable insights into the urban planning, daily life, and cultural practices of the city's inhabitants over millennia.

One of the most significant findings is the ruins of the royal palace, which is believed to have been a magnificent structure adorned with intricate reliefs and luxurious decorations. The palace complex, with its grand halls and courtyards, reflects the city's status as a political and cultural hub.