Kermanshah remains one of West Asia’s most important archaeological regions, according to Iranian historian Mohsen Derekeh. Speaking on National Kermanshah Day, Derekeh highlighted the province’s rich prehistoric heritage. He said decades of discoveries continue strengthening its importance in human history.
Derekeh said researchers have found evidence suggesting humans lived in Kermanshah nearly one million years ago. Consequently, archaeologists continue studying the province’s prehistoric sites. They hope to better understand early human societies and their development. The region’s caves and rock shelters preserve valuable archaeological evidence.
According to Derekeh, Kermanshah offered ideal conditions for ancient communities. Abundant water, fertile land, and the Zagros Mountains supported long-term settlement. Therefore, humans repeatedly settled across the region for thousands of years. Archaeologists have identified many important prehistoric locations throughout the province.
Key sites include Sheikh Abadi Tepe, Godin Tepe, Chia Khazineh, Chia Gavaneh, and Sarab. Researchers believe these sites document continuous occupation across different prehistoric periods. They also provide evidence for the rise of early civilizations.
Modern archaeological research expanded during the 1940s. American anthropologist Carlton Coon conducted excavations at Bisotun Cave. His team recovered Paleolithic remains, including a human forearm bone. Researchers still consider the discovery scientifically important today.
Further investigations continued in 1959 under American archaeologist Robert Braidwood. His team excavated Asiab Tepe, Ganj Tepe, Sarab, and Gakiyeh. Moreover, researchers uncovered stone tools from ancient settlements. These discoveries confirmed long-term human occupation across western Iran.
Scientists also studied the Warwasi Rock Shelter near Kermanshah. They discovered stone tools linked to Neanderthals and modern humans. Consequently, some researchers believe both groups may have lived there during overlapping periods.
Iranian archaeologists later expanded research after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Excavations at Wezmeh Cave produced another major discovery. Scientists identified a tooth belonging to a Neanderthal child. They estimated the child lived between 40,000 and 70,000 years ago.
Looking ahead, researchers expect further discoveries across Kermanshah’s archaeological sites. They also support stronger conservation efforts to protect this valuable heritage. These initiatives could expand archaeological research and strengthen cultural tourism across the province.