Iran and China launch second phase of joint archaeological studies to explore ancient iron-smelting technologies

The second phase of joint Iranian-Chinese archaeological investigations has officially begun at the historic village of Masouleh in northern Iran, as reported by Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

The international research effort aims to deepen understanding of ancient sponge iron smelting and to support Masouleh’s nomination for UNESCO World Heritage status.

The ongoing research seeks to complete critical documentation for the registration of Masouleh’s cultural landscape on the World Heritage List.

The core focus of this phase is to examine the evolution and spread of sponge iron smelting technologies across historical periods and their integration into the built environment of Masouleh.

The aim is to reconstruct the historical interconnection between industrial activity and the residential fabric of Masouleh. The research team is exploring how metallurgical zones functioned within and alongside one of Iran’s most distinctive human settlements.

The second phase of research combines targeted excavations at known metallurgical sites with rigorous cross-referencing of archaeological findings against Islamic-era travelogues, ancient geographical manuscripts, and local historical archives.

Cutting-edge scientific methods such as radiocarbon (C-14) and luminescence dating will be used to create a reliable chronological framework for Masouleh’s industrial and domestic development.

According to experts, the outcomes of this collaborative research will be instrumental in advancing Masouleh’s UNESCO nomination dossier, positioning it as a rare example of an integrated industrial-residential cultural landscape.

Photo: iStock