Iranian cultural heritage sites and museums have suffered significant damage during the war in the Middle East. At least 56 museums and heritage sites across Iran have been affected by the bombings, including UNESCO-listed monuments like the Golestan Palace in Tehran and Naqsh-e Jahan Square in Isfahan.
The attacks have particularly impacted fragile elements like mirrors, enamelled tiles, frescoes, and woodwork, which are unique examples of Safavid and Qajar architectural art. In response to these destructions, UNESCO, ICOMOS, and the Blue Shield have emphasized that protecting cultural heritage during wartime is an obligation under international humanitarian law, not a secondary consideration.
In Tehran, the Golestan Palace has been damaged by the bombings. According to Iranian authorities, Tehran province has been the most affected, with 19 monuments suffering damage. The Golestan Palace, a symbol of power during the Qajar dynasty, has historical origins dating back to the Safavid era. It has been a key architectural landmark reflecting a blend of Iranian tradition and Western influences.
Similarly, in Isfahan, the Safavid era monuments around Naqsh-e Jahan Square have also been damaged. The square, established by Shah Abbas I, served as a focal point for political, religious, economic, and ceremonial activities in the city. The Emam Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its monumental architecture and elaborate decorative elements, showcasing the pinnacle of Safavid artistry.
Various French heritage organizations like Blue Shield France, ICOMOS France, and ICOM France have expressed concern over the damages to historic sites in Iran due to ongoing hostilities in the Middle East. They highlight the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage during conflicts in line with the 1954 Hague Convention. They stress the need to secure vulnerable collections and evacuate valuable items from sites under threat without risking the safety of personnel involved.
The organizations also condemn the use of cultural properties as shields or targets in military operations and reference previous incidents in Gaza where military actions caused irreparable losses to cultural heritage sites. In light of the recent damages in Iran, international organizations like UNESCO, ICOM, ICOMOS, and Blue Shield International have called for the protection of cultural sites from military escalation, emphasizing that historic sites and museum collections are protected under international humanitarian law and should not be treated as ordinary targets during wartime.
