Hyrcanian Forests World Heritage Listing
Hyrcanian Forests World Heritage Listing, Tir 14.
On this date in 1398, Iran’s Hyrcanian Forests were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These ancient forests, dating back over 40 million years, stretch along the southern coast of the Caspian Sea and cover an area of approximately 850,000 hectares.
The listing recognized the forests’ environmental significance, biodiversity, and ecological value.
The Hyrcanian Forests are among the last remaining broadleaf forests from the Tertiary period and serve as a habitat for a wide range of plant and animal species.
More than 180 bird species and 58 mammal species have been identified in this region.
The forests also play a crucial role in water conservation and preventing soil erosion in northern Iran.
The decision to grant World Heritage status was made by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee during its 43rd session.
The process was led by Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization in cooperation with other relevant bodies.
Following the inscription, greater emphasis was placed on the protection and sustainable management of the forests, with initiatives launched for education, research, and responsible tourism in the area.
It should be noted that this observance was added to the Jalali calendar to commemorate the Hyrcanian Forests' World Heritage inscription in 1398.