TEHRAN–A total of 14 historical buildings and structures in northwestern Zanjan province were restored during the first half of the current Iranian calendar year 1401 (started March 21), the deputy provincial tourism chief has said.

Holy shrines, mausoleums, mosques, and aging buildings were among the restored sites, Mohammadreza Mohammadpur explained on Friday.

Historically significant buildings are a nation’s heritage, and their proper use will contribute to the country's development and job creation, the official added.

Zanjan is one of the cities founded by Sassanid King Ardashir I (180-242 CE). The province makes a base for wider explorations with the architectural wonder of Soltaniyeh, the subterranean delights of the Katale-Khor caves, colorful mountains, and the UNESCO-registered Takht-e Soleyman ruins nearby.

In 2020, Zanjan was designated a “world city of filigree” by the World Crafts Council after the WCC assessors visited various craft workshops, stores, exhibits, and bazaars in the city.

Filigree consists of curling, twisting, or plaiting fine, pliable metal threads and soldering them at their points of contact with each other with a metal groundwork.

ABU/AM