Isfahan - A senior Iranian academic affiliated with UNESCO said it is not yet possible to provide an accurate assessment of damage to historic monuments in Isfahan following recent air strikes, citing the need for detailed studies once conditions stabilize.

Mehrdad Hejazi, head of UNESCO’s university network in Iran, made the remarks during a visit to several historical sites in the central Iranian city, ISNA reported. 

Hejazi said the scale of destruction caused by the US-Israeli aggression was enormous, expressing hope that damaged structures could be restored as soon as possible.

“Providing a precise evaluation of the damage, both material and intangible, is not currently possible,” he said, adding that comprehensive and standardized assessments would be required before reliable estimates could be made.

Hejazi said preliminary observations suggest that damage to heritage sites falls into two main categories: structural and decorative.

“Damage to structural components appears to be less extensive than to decorative elements, although this requires further detailed study,” he said.

He added that decorative features, including tilework, wooden ornaments, glass elements and similar artistic details, were particularly vulnerable due to their lower resistance compared with core structures.

Experts are especially concerned about these elements, which are often central to the artistic and historical value of Iran’s Islamic architecture.

Hejazi added that restoration efforts would need to follow a phased approach, beginning with detailed studies and followed by reconstruction and conservation work. He warned that the process would likely require substantial funding.

“Iranian specialists, particularly those in Isfahan, are capable of addressing this challenge,” he said, adding that international assistance could also be sought if needed.

He said a medium-to-long-term plan would likely be required to repair the damage, while stressing that the destruction of sites with national and international significance remained unacceptable.

Hejazi also cautioned against premature estimates of damage.

“Determining which sites have suffered the most damage is complex,” he said. “In some cases, restoring small but intricate decorative elements may take longer than repairing larger sections. Any figures based on speculation at this stage could lead to poor decision-making.”

Isfahan, one of Iran’s most historically significant cities, is renowned for its Islamic architecture, bazaars, gardens and museums. The city has long been known by the nickname “Nesf-e-Jahan,” or “half the world,” reflecting its historical importance as a center of culture, trade and diplomacy.

Hejazi said that across multiple sites, the level of damage appeared “significant” relative to the structures themselves, but expressed optimism that restoration was possible with the support of skilled Iranian experts and adequate national resources.

“We hope that, by mobilizing capable specialists and domestic support, these damaged monuments can be returned to their original condition in due time,” he said.

Isfahan, once a bustling hub of international trade and diplomacy in Iran, has transformed into one of the country’s premier tourist destinations for compelling reasons. Filled with architectural marvels, including unparalleled Islamic structures, vibrant bazaars, enriching museums, serene Persian gardens, and picturesque tree-lined boulevards, Isfahan beckons visitors to immerse themselves in its charm. Strolling through its labyrinthine bazaars, lounging in its enchanting gardens, and engaging with its friendly locals offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in this extraordinary destination.

AM