Persepolis Stone Fragment Returned to Iranian Authorities on April 2, 2025

A stone fragment believed to be from Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iran, was returned to the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Directorate of Fars province on April 2, 2025. The discovery was made near the entrance road to Persepolis. Mohammad Sabet-Eqlidi, head of the directorate, stated that the fragment was found within the Persepolis complex boundaries, and there was no evidence of damage or theft from the original structures. The voluntary return of the stone highlights public cooperation in preserving Iran's historical heritage. New archaeological excavations are planned for the area within the current Persian calendar year. Persepolis, dating back to 518 BC, is known for its unique architecture and historical significance as the seat of the Achaemenid Empire. The area where the fragment was found is historically known as the city of Parseh and is rich in surface and subsurface archaeological remains.