The Ancient City of Belqis: A 4,000-Year-Old Civilization
Nestled in the heart of North Khorasan Province, the Ancient City of Belqis, also known as Old Esfarayen, stands as a testament to millennia of history. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, this ancient city has witnessed the rise and fall of civilizations, enduring destruction and plunder time and again, only to rise from its ashes, reclaiming its former grandeur.
A Legacy of Resilience and Survival
Throughout history, Belqis has been a strategic stronghold, serving as a cultural and economic hub. Despite suffering repeated invasions and devastation, the city’s resilient spirit ensured its continual reconstruction and preservation. The ruins that remain today tell the stories of forgotten dynasties and the legacy of Iranian civilization.
Archaeological Discoveries and Historical Significance
Excavations in the Belqis Archaeological Complex suggest that parts of the city date back to the 2nd century AH (8th century AD). Archaeologists have uncovered mudbrick fortifications, ancient dwellings, and artifacts that provide insight into the daily life and architectural ingenuity of past civilizations. The Great Archaeological Museum of Bojnord houses many of these invaluable relics, allowing visitors to explore fragments of Belqis’s glorious past.
Recognition as a National Heritage Site
In 2001 (1380 SH), the Ancient City of Belqis was officially registered as a National Heritage Site of Iran. Since then, extensive archaeological research and preservation efforts have been carried out to protect and restore this historical gem.
For history enthusiasts and adventurers alike, Belqis offers a journey back in time, where the whispers of ancient Persia can still be heard through its age-old walls and ruins.4o