UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Shahr-e Sukhteh
Iran

Shahr-e Sukhteh

Bronze Age urban settlement in Iran

Location

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Historical Context

About

Shahr-e Sukhteh, also known as the Burnt City, is a prominent archaeological site located in southeastern Iran, dating from approximately 3550 to 2300 BCE. As one of the largest cities during the dawn of the urban era, it covers an area of about 200 hectares. This Bronze Age settlement showcases significant connections with nearby regions like Turkmenistan and the Indus Valley. Key features include a vast cemetery with thousands of graves, evidence of advanced ceramics production, and distinctive architectural structures such as the 'Burnt Palace.' Shahr-e Sukhteh offers insights into an independent civilization east of prehistoric Iran, distinct from ancient Mesopotamia. Its historical importance is underscored by its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Settlement Establishment

3550 BCE

Period IV Decline

2400–2300 BCE

Period III Standardization

2600–2400 BCE

Period II Expansion

3000–2600 BCE

Period I Development

3550–3000 BCE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Public and Civic Structures

Administrative Buildings
category

Burial and Funerary Structures

GravesCemeteries
category

Industrial and Craft Structures

WorkshopsKilns
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

HousesCities
Knowledge Base

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Reference

Details

Country

Iran

Coordinates

30.60° N, 61.33° E