TEHRAN - In a momentous unveiling at the 17th International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition in Tehran, the Cultural Heritage and Tourism Research Institute brought to light extraordinary discoveries from Hastijan Cave located at Markazi province.

Among the treasures revealed were the oldest calligraphy pen unearthed in Iran and a meticulously woven fabric dating back to the Sassanid Empire.

The showcased Sassanid woven fabric, a testament to ancient craftsmanship, is made from wool. The warp features a rich indigo hue, complemented by a pristine white weft. Repaired by Roohollah Dehghani and Azam Esmaeili from the esteemed research group for traditional arts at the Cultural Heritage and Tourism Research Institute, this fabric offers a captivating glimpse into ancient textile artistry. 

Another noteworthy revelation from Hastijan Cave, previously introduced at a conference following its display at the National Museum of Iran, is the oldest calligraphy pen, also from the Sassanid era. Exhibited at the ongoing event, this reed-crafted pen measures 10.5 centimeters in length and 8 millimeters in diameter.

During the presentation ceremony of these remarkable artifacts, Mohammad Reza Namati, head of the Hastijan Cave exploration team, shared insights: "The most significant find in the cave excavation is this 1400-year-old pen, measuring 10.5 centimeters in length and 8 millimeters in diameter, crafted from reed. It still carries visible remnants of inks, and was used to write onto leather."

Enthusiasts and history aficionados are cordially invited to explore these captivating archaeological wonders at the Cultural Heritage and Tourism Research Institute's exhibition booth in Halls 8 and 9 of the 17th International Tourism and Related Industries Exhibition, taking place from February 12 to 15. This exhibition is considered Iran's premier tourism industry event and seeks to not only showcase the tourism potential of the Iranian capital but also extend a warm welcome to enthusiasts and professionals in the field of tourism.