TEHRAN - Archaeological excavations at the ancient site of Bozanjerd in west-central Iran, indicate the area was continuously settled from the historical period through the Middle Islamic era, including the Ilkhanid period, officials said.

The findings are based on recent surface surveys and the initial results of the first excavation season at the site, located in Hamedan province, according to a report by ISNA.

Hamidreza Heydari, deputy head of the Hamedan Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Department, said on Saturday that the first excavation season had been come to an end. 

He said the excavation aimed to identify archaeological layers and determine the extent and boundaries of an ancient hill at Bozanjerd.

The official added that the site’s significance had led authorities to begin preparing a registration file for its possible inclusion on the national heritage list.

He added that the excavation was conducted with official permission from the Archaeological Research Institute and under the supervision of the Hamedan Cultural Heritage Department, in line with legal procedures.

KD