TEHRAN – A cultural heritage official has said multiple threats endanger the survival of historical treasures, citing the passage of time, climate changes, public ignorance, vandalism and natural disasters as key factors contributing to the destruction of invaluable architectural heritage.

In an interview with ISNA on the occasion of World Heritage Day [April 18], Kermanshah’s head of museums, emphasized the importance of preserving historical buildings and sites.
“Unfortunately, various factors have led many historical buildings and sites to deteriorate over time towards destruction,” Alireza Barshahi noted, “with no replacements available.”

He elaborated on the major threats endangering historical buildings and sites, pointing out that one of the most significant factors is the passage of time, decay and erosion of these structures.
"To prevent the destruction and decay of historical buildings and sites, maintenance activities need to be carried out annually,” the official added, “despite the limited funding allocated for the preservation, restoration, and revitalization of these historical treasures.”

In Kermanshah province alone, there are approximately 4200 heritage sites, requiring substantial and considerable funding for their annual maintenance, according to Barshahi.
“Each year, a selection is made among them, prioritizing those in need of more extensive restoration.” The official indicated.

Barshahi further highlighted the public's unawareness of the significance of historical buildings and sites as another threat to their destruction, stating that many people living in historical houses unknowingly contribute to their destruction due to ignorance of their historical value, opting to replace them with new structures.

He also mentioned individuals driven by the lure of treasure hunting who engage in digging and destroying historical sites located in natural or agricultural areas, which boast cultural artifacts valuable solely to archaeologists.

Moreover, he addressed the role of vandals in the destruction of historical buildings and sites, citing instances where deliberate damage is inflicted on them, such as graffiti and arson, particularly in remote areas away from urban environments.

Barshahi emphasized that natural disasters also play a significant role in the destruction and deterioration of historical sites, citing examples like the Kermanshah’s earthquake in 2017 that caused damage to various historical sites in the province.

"Education about the collective ownership of heritage sites should be provided in universities, schools and to the general public,” Barshahi underscored in his concluding remark, “encouraging everyone to collaborate in their preservation."