TEHRAN - In a significant breakthrough, West Azarbaijan province has recovered a great number of precious gold and copper coins dating back two millennia.

Speaking on Thursday, West Azarbaijan’s chief justice announced the discovery of 179 valuable historical gold and copper coins, along with cultural items dating back two millennia (from the Seleucid period), in one of the northern counties of the province.

“The suspects involved in this regard have been arrested and are under judicial proceedings with the formation of a case,” Naser Atabati elaborated. “And the valuable historical cultural items are being examined and evaluated by experts, and ultimately will be handed over to the in-charge authority.”

Moreover, he emphasized the special attention of the judiciary of the province to the issue of cultural heritage, and historical sites.

“West Azarbaijan is one of the very rich provinces in this field, which has over hundreds of cultural and historical collections, registered areas as national monuments, and unique areas on the UNESCO world heritage list,” Atabati brought to light. “Demanding special attention and focus.”

Both the organizations in charge of cultural heritage and the judicial system, he underscored, have a special focus on preserving the cultural and historical collections of the province, equally in terms of property rights registration, and issuing documents for these properties with an eye toward preventing intrusion.

“With the coordination and cooperation of all organizations, we hope to preserve invaluable historical and cultural treasures provincewide,” the chief wrapped up.

XF