Tomb of Cyrus the Great to be restored

LONDON - Reports indicate that Italian experts will help Iran restore the tomb of Cyrus the Great (580-529BC), considered one of the most magnificent monuments of antiquity.

According to a report by Poundbury Publishing, an agreement signed in Tehran will see Italian archaeologists working with their Iranian colleagues for at least two years.

The tomb in the ancient city of Pasargadae, in southern Iran, is considered the symbol of the country’s national identity and was already famous in ancient times.

Greek conqueror Alexander the Great (356-323 BC) is reported to have visited the tomb in sign of respect after the fall of the Persian Empire.

Italy had already offered its help restore the monument, which Iranian authorities are concerned may be affected by flooding if the construction of a proposed dam near the UNESCO World Heritage site goes ahead.

Italian archaeologists have a history of working with Iran to safeguard important cultural heritage, including a project to restore part of the ancient city of Bam.

Culture Minister Sandro Bondi said that restorers would use the latest state-of-the-art equipment developed by Italian restorers and technicians to save the tomb of Cyrus the Great.

While successfully conquering many neighboring empires, Cyrus the Great was renowned for his magnanimous attitude and is thought to be responsible for the first known charter of human rights.

Written in cuneiform script on a baked clay cylinder, the charter recounts his treatment of the Babylonians following his defeat of their empire in 539 BC. (ANI)