Archaeological remains at Isfahan’s historic Jameh Mosque will soon undergo a comprehensive conservation review. Omid Ali Sadeqi, director of the UNESCO-listed site, announced the initiative following prolonged water infiltration beneath several complex sections. Consequently, specialists will carefully evaluate previously exposed historical layers rather than launching major new archaeological excavations. Furthermore, Iran’s provincial Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department fully supports this critical preservation project.
The conservation emergency arose after a ruptured utility pipe allowed water to infiltrate underground layers for nearly 90 days. Initial technical assessments recorded moisture saturation levels reaching 95 percent at depths of 85 centimeters. However, emergency drainage operations subsequently reduced moisture readings to 30 percent in several affected areas. Nevertheless, monitoring teams continue tracking elevated moisture levels across remaining vulnerable sections of the monument.
The upcoming reassessment will revisit significant discoveries made during Italian archaeological excavations completed six decades ago. Specialists plan to reexamine structural remains linked to pre-Islamic periods and the mosque’s earliest Islamic phases. Additionally, researchers will evaluate historical columns, architectural elements, and archaeological evidence surrounding the iconic Nizam al-Mulk Dome. Therefore, experts aim to document environmental impacts while protecting irreplaceable cultural heritage features.
Looking ahead, heritage administrators envision transforming selected subterranean areas into a potential living museum for visitors. Following conservation approvals, authorities may introduce temporary public displays showcasing successive historical construction phases directly in situ. Meanwhile, specialists will prioritize continuous environmental monitoring, structural protection, and scientific documentation across all affected zones. Ultimately, this conservation initiative will strengthen future preservation planning while deepening public understanding of Isfahan’s architectural evolution.