Remnants of Ancient Castle Unveiled in Nahavand - CAIS Archaeological & Cultural News of Iran©

LONDON, (CAIS) -- Archeologists came across what they believe are remnants of Yazdgerd castle dating to late Sasanid dynastic era during excavations in Do-Khaharan (two Sisters) region in Nahavand, Hamedan province.

The team of archaeologists originally digging up the earth for the purpose of locating Post-Achaemenid Laodicea temple since last month, hit upon what might have been the location of the historic castle of Yazdgerd III, after stumbling upon scattered relics such as potteries and column bases dating to different eras.

The team of experts came across a number of columns dating to the Zandieyeh and Qajar dynastic eras as well as one belonging to the Sasanid era which is located under the foundation of a residential unit, director of archaeological team told Iran Daily.

Yazdgerd castle has only been referred to in a few contemporary history books and not much information is available about the monument.

According to Mehdi Rahbar, the first excavation season was originally launched in Do-Khaharan region in a bid to find the remains of Laodicea temple.

Digging operations have been slowed down due to insufficient excavation space. The region has undergone excessive construction in the course of different eras and is crammed with residential buildings. There is little space for excavation and most of the historic area is believed to be trapped under the buildings.

Rahbar said a number of houses in the area need to be purchased and demolished to make continuation of the excavations possible.

Archaeological evidence pertaining to the Laodicea temple include the capital of a column attributed to Hellenistic period, as well as small brass statues and an inscription dating back to 193 BC. The pieces, accidentally discovered in 1943 in construction works in Nahavand, are currently maintained in Iran Bastan (ancient) Museum.