TEHRAN—A number of managers of Iraqi travel agencies visited the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bisotun and all the attractions and historical monuments of Bisotun complex during September 2-5.

The visit aimed for increasing the tourism cooperation between Iran and Iraq and introducing Iran’s historical attractions to Iraqi tourists, IRIB reported. 

Bisotun site is one of the most important and unique cultural heritages of Iran. It includes artifacts pertaining to Achaemenid era comprising ancient inscriptions, magnificent bas-reliefs   and numerous historical monuments. 

Along with its pristine nature and captivating landscapes, it offers a unique combination of history and nature. 

After visiting Bisotun complex, Iraqi tourism managers appreciated the historical and natural richness of this region. They said that Bisotun complex is not only a historical site, but also a living and valuable treasure of ancient Iran’s culture and art. 

Iraqi guests also paid special attention to the large Achaemenid reliefs carved into the huge stones, deeming it worthy of global attention.

The complex's tourist guide provided comprehensive explanations about the history of Bisotun, the importance of the existing historical monuments, and the surrounding natural landscapes, providing a better understanding of the complex and answering the questions of Iraqi guests. 

The familiarization tour of managers of travel agencies of the Arab part of Iraq, with the participation of 14 people, was hosted by Kermanshah Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department.

As a world-registered site, Bisotun is a symbol of identity not only for the Kermanshah people, but also for Iran as a whole, and it must be protected. 
Located 30 kilometers east of the provincial capital Kermanshah, at the foot of the Zagros Mountains, Bisotun was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list on July 13, 2006.

Bisotun is a patchwork of immense yet impressive life-size carvings depicting king Darius I and several other figures.

The area was on the ancient trade route linking the Iranian high plateau with Mesopotamia and contains remains from prehistoric times to the Median and Achaemenid eras.

The principal monument of this archaeological site is the bas-relief and cuneiform inscription ordered by Darius the Great shortly after he ascended to the throne of the Persian Empire in 521 BC.

KD