TEHRAN - Tchogha Zanbil, a prehistoric ziggurat in southwest Iran, has underwent some vital rehabilitation works.

Prior to the mission, a workshop on bricks and mortar was held near the site with the aim of producing optimum and consistent materials, based on laboratory studies on original materials employed in the ziggurat, Mehr reported on Sunday.

Refurbishing waterproof fabrics and gutters is atop agenda in the first phase of the restoration project being carried out by the Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Organization.

A topmost tourist destination in Khuzestan province, the magnificent ruins is considered by many the finest surviving example of the Elamite architecture in the world. It was made a UNESCO site in 1979.

The prehistoric mud-brick complex bears testimony to the unique expression of the culture, beliefs, rituals and traditions of one of the oldest indigenous communities of Iran.

PHOTO: People visit ruins of Tchogha Zanbil in Khuzestan province southwestern Iran.

AFM/MQ/MG