TEHRAN - The number of visitors to historical sites and cultural heritage museums in Hamedan province has seen a significant increase of nearly 18% during the first six months of the current Iranian year (stated on March 20).

On Tuesday, Mohsen Masoum-Alizadeh, the provincial tourism chief, announced that over 515,834 tourists visited the province's museums and cultural sites during the first six months of the year.

This marks a considerable rise from the 473,000 tourists who visited during the same period last year, reflecting a 17.8% growth, the official said.

Among the most visited destinations, the Mausoleum of Avicenna attracted 195,576 visitors, while the Tomb of Baba Taher recorded 166,481 visitors. Other notable sites include the Hegmataneh Museum with 97,469 visitors, and the Alavian Dome with 17,894 visitors.

Lesser-known locations like the Malayer Museum of History and Culture saw 6,105 visitors, while the newly opened Samen Underground City had an impressive turnout of 17,441 visitors.

These numbers underscore a growing interest in Hamedan's rich cultural heritage, as tourists continue to explore the province’s historical treasures. According to local officials, the boost in visitor numbers is a promising sign for the local tourism industry as it recovers from the challenges of the past years.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Masoum-Alizadeh emphasized the province’s ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its historical landmarks, hoping to continue attracting more visitors in the coming months.

Hamedan, also known as Ecbatana in classical times, was once one of the most important cities in the ancient world. It boasts a wealth of tourist attractions. Notable landmarks include the Ali-Sadr Cave, Tomb of Abu Ali Sina, Ganjnameh Ancient Inscriptions, and Alaviyan Dome, promising a rewarding experience for visitors.

Sprawling on a high plain, Hamedan was initially urbanized by the Medes, Assyrians, Persians, and Parthians. It may no longer be the legendary metropolis it once was, but it still boasts all the culture you’d expect from a location with such a long history.

AM