Iranian archaeologists have announced new discoveries at the Espahbod Khorshid site in Mazandaran province, northern Iran. The excavation has brought to light several architectural structures and burial goods dating to the Sasanian period (224–651 AD).
According to the Archaeological Research Center of Iran’s Cultural Heritage Organization, survey teams uncovered a large tomb with a vaulted structure and interconnected burial chambers. Preliminary dating based on pottery and metal artifacts suggests the structure belongs to the late Sasanian era.
Notably, the brick walls feature geometric decorative patterns and stone carvings that differ from contemporary sites in central Iran’s plains. Researchers believe this may be the burial site of a local military commander or a member of the regional royal family.
Recovered artifacts include glazed bowls, iron weapons, and several well-preserved linen fragments, thanks to low humidity conditions. Carbon isotope analysis will determine the exact age of the organic material.
The discovery is the result of a two-year joint project between the University of Tehran and the Iranian Institute of Archaeology. Detailed research findings will be published in a specialist journal in the coming months.
