TEHRAN - Two antiqued Qajar-era houses in Damghan have been handed over to private investors, aiming to preserve and restore these cultural landmarks while enhancing tourism and local heritage.

The Seddiq and Lotfi mansions, both registered as national heritage, have been transferred to the private sector through an auction, with the aim of restoration, renovation, and utilization, CHTN reported on Sunday.
The initiative seeks to breathe new life into these cultural landmarks, promoting tourism and hospitality services for locals and tourists, the report added.

By leveraging the capabilities and investments of the private sector, the project aims to revive and restore these structures, potentially leading to significant and lasting benefits. 

Of particular note, the courtyard of the Lotfi House, currently functioning as the Damghan City History Museum, will retain its museum status, according to the officials.

As revealed by the local authorities, the investor is required to preserve the museum’s function and enhance its properties while utilizing additional spaces and courtyards for cultural and hospitality purposes.

This approach aims to ensure that these structures are maintained and brought back to life in a way that serves modern needs, such as tourism and cultural activities.

This initiative reflects a broader trend in heritage management, where public-private partnerships are increasingly seen as essential for the sustainable preservation of historical sites.
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