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Showing 7 results for Excavation
Conservation During the First Season of Archaeological Excavations at the Chogha Zanbil World Heritage Site, Winter 1999
Hamid Fadaei, Azita Mirzaye,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
This study investigates and evaluates emergency conservation methods at the Chogha Zanbil archaeological site, focusing on the conservation of excavated features including shafts, shallow grids, and architectural remains. The primary objective of these interventions was to Conservation of Excavated Remains against environmental factors such as moisture, erosion, and gradual decay, either temporarily or over extended periods. The research methodology involved field observations, assessment of available materials, and reference to previous conservation practices at the site. The use of crushed gravel and sand with a variable grain size between 2 and 20 millimeters was recommended for backfilling trenches and shafts. Care was taken to avoid impurities such as gypsum, anhydrite, and various sulfates, which could contribute to the formation of soluble salts and damage the archaeological features. The protective coverage of shafts, networks, and the exposed brick platform was implemented in a phased manner, based on their depth and archaeological significance. For deeper shafts, stratified layers of gravel and soft soil with appropriate compaction were employed, while shallow grids were covered with a thin layer of gravel followed by backfilling with excavated soil. Special attention was given to the conservation of the inscribed brick platform, which was protected using a base layer of fine sand. The findings indicate that the use of natural materials combined with scientifically informed and experience-based approaches can be effective in the temporary or long-term conservation of excavated features in archaeological sites.

Investigation, Identification, and Preventive Conservation in Archaeological Excavations: The Historical Site of Kahnek, Sarbisheh, South Khorasan
Mohammad Farjami, Hamzeh Hamzeh , Ali Asghar Mahmoudi-Nasab,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract
Archaeological excavations at historical sites are conducted to enhance our understanding of the past, shedding light on the lives of ancient communities across various regions and periods. South Khorasan, and eastern Iran in general, have been relatively understudied in terms of archaeology, making them among the lesser-known regions of Iran. Recent surveys and excavations in this area have provided highly valuable data for the archaeological community. This study focuses on the conservation of movable and immovable cultural artifacts during archaeological excavations at the historical site of Kahnek, located in Sarbisheh, South Khorasan Province. Four seasons of archaeological excavations were conducted at this site from 2013 to 2016, revealing evidence and cultural materials dating back to the early Islamic centuries through the Safavid period. The site contains two types of artifacts: movable objects, which must be handled separately from architectural remains, and architectural features and associated decorations, which must remain in situ and undergo conservation at the site. Activities such as structural reinforcement, preservation of in-situ remains, and site cleaning have been carried out. These measures aim to implement preventive conservation and mitigate any activities that could damage the site or diminish its historical and cultural significance. This research introduces the historical site and its cultural findings, offering recommendations for preventive conservation during excavations. The research methodology includes library studies, field and regional surveys, analysis of excavation data, and proposals for the temporary conservation of movable and immovable cultural artifacts.

Rescue Conservation of a Coffin Burial Discovered in the Archaeological Excavation of the Joubji Site, Ramhormoz
Ardeshir Kouhzad, Sadegh Sheykhi , Majid Soroush Nia ,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract
During the second season of excavations at the Joubji archaeological site in Ramhormoz, three clay coffins from the Elamite period were uncovered. This report details all stages of the lightening or removal process of the central coffin, which was filled with soil covering the skeletons inside. The process included fungal decontamination, complete disinfection of the skeletons with necessary chemical agents, consolidation and stabilization of the skeletons, and reinforcement and stabilization of the coffin itself in its current state. The coffin was ultimately extracted from the site using the block-lifting method and transferred to the Ramhormoz Cultural Heritage Office. The rescue conservation of this unique and highly valuable coffin highlights a distinctive burial practice. Without proper attention and completion of specialized final conservation and restoration efforts, the deterioration process would have rapidly commenced. This article addresses the degradation and deterioration processes of the bones within the coffin and the methods employed for their protection.

The Clay Relief of the Konar Sandal Site in Jiroft: A Study on Preservation and On-Site Conservation
Hamid Fadaei, Azita Mirzaye ,
Volume 3, Issue 3 (12-2020)
Abstract
The Southern Mound of Konar Sandal, situated in the Halil River basin, is one of the most significant prehistoric sites in the Jiroft plain. Among the notable discoveries at this site is a life-sized clay relief positioned within a recessed, doorway-like feature in a large room. This relief, recognized as the oldest known example of a monumental clay relief integrated with architecture in the Middle East, dates back to the third millennium BCE. Since its discovery in 2006, its conservation has posed significant challenges for experts. The history of illegal excavations in the region and the lack of adequate infrastructure for permanent protection and maintenance of the site have exacerbated these challenges, leading to occasional proposals to transfer the artifact to a museum. The primary research question focuses on identifying an appropriate approach for the on-site conservation of the clay relief. Using both library-based research and fieldwork, this study gathered information related to the site and the relief, documented environmental factors contributing to its deterioration, and analyzed the data. The findings indicate that the current protective cover is inadequate. Environmental conditions, particularly moisture rising from the soil containing soluble salts, significantly accelerate the relief's erosion and the deterioration of its surface paint layers. Based on these findings, the study provides recommendations for optimizing the conservation of the relief.

The Use of a Wooden Canopy to Protect Historical and Cultural Sites After Archaeological Excavations: Case study Sadaqiani Bath
Yaser Shahbazi , Najmeh Faghih Dinevari,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract
This research aims to propose a suitable solution for covering the roof of the Sadaqiani Bath. The Sadaqiani Bath is located on the campus of the Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning at Tabriz Islamic Art University. During the construction of a new building, remnants of an ancient structure were uncovered, leading to archaeological excavations. This bath, dating back to the Qajar period, has been officially registered as a historical site. Due to its lower elevation compared to the surrounding area, the bath required a protective cover to prevent rainwater infiltration and provide adequate shielding from sunlight. In line with the university's academic policies in architectural technology, efforts were made to design and construct a cover using innovative technologies, aiming to establish a successful and exemplary standard in this field. To address these requirements, an arc-shaped lamella structure with a fabric cover was chosen. This structure not only offers protection against weather conditions but also harmonizes with the existing buildings on the site, including the bath. It is lightweight and provides sufficient support to minimize potential damage to the main structure. With the assistance of architectural technology students from the faculty, research and design efforts were carried out, and the cover for the Sadaqiani Bath was successfully constructed, with the necessary funding provided.

Technical Report Conservation-Restoration Practices in Trench 12 Excavations at Qara Tepe Sagzabad, Qazvin Plain (2018)
Ramin Mohammadi Sefidkhani, Mostafa Dehpahlavan,
Volume 7, Issue 3 (11-2024)
Abstract
Conservation in archaeological excavations involves creative and rapid methods aimed at minimal intervention and maximum preservation of findings until their transfer to well-equipped and specialized laboratories. Given that the first professional interaction with discovered artifacts falls within the realm of conservation and restoration, and considering that all related actions, including comprehensive and scientific sampling, ensure the preservation of both hidden and visible data, it is essential to focus on expanding methods and practices in this field. The lack of reports on practical conservation measures in archaeological excavations, and occasionally the absence of specialists on-site or acceptable specialized actions, highlights the necessity of paying greater attention to this area. This article aims to document the conservation and restoration measures undertaken in Trench 12 of the Qareh Tepe Segaabad cemetery in the Qazvin Plain, detailing the processes of grave block-lifting, ceramic bandaging, stabilization and consolidation of ceramic, metal, and bone artifacts, and their retrieval. The tools used in the conservation and restoration of the mentioned trench include transparent adhesive tape, aluminum foil, various brushes, tweezers, cotton, polyester fibers, banana crates, injection syringes, jute sacks, wooden skewers, scalpel blades, and pipettes. The chemical materials used for joining, stabilization, and consolidation include alcohol, acetone, toluene, transparent epoxy adhesive (Ghaffari brand), Paraloid B72 resin, polyurethane resin, and plaster. Conservation in archaeological excavations involves creative and rapid methods aimed at minimal intervention and maximum preservation of findings until their transfer to well-equipped and specialized laboratories. Given that the first professional interaction with discovered artifacts falls within the realm of conservation and restoration, and considering that all related actions, including comprehensive and scientific sampling, ensure the preservation of both hidden and visible data, it is essential to focus on expanding methods and practices in this field. The lack of reports on practical conservation measures in archaeological excavations, and occasionally the absence of specialists on-site or acceptable specialized actions, highlights the necessity of paying greater attention to this area. This article aims to document the conservation and restoration measures undertaken in Trench 12 of the Qareh Tepe Segaabad cemetery in the Qazvin Plain, detailing the processes of grave block-lifting, ceramic bandaging, stabilization and consolidation of ceramic, metal, and bone artifacts, and their retrieval. The tools used in the conservation and restoration of the mentioned trench include transparent adhesive tape, aluminum foil, various brushes, tweezers, cotton, polyester fibers, banana crates, injection syringes, jute sacks, wooden skewers, scalpel blades, and pipettes. The chemical materials used for joining, stabilization, and consolidation include alcohol, acetone, toluene, transparent epoxy adhesive (Ghaffari brand), Paraloid B72 resin, polyurethane resin, and plaster.

A Strategic Framework for Developing National Heritage Conservation Documents for Iranian Archaeological Excavations: A Guide for Stakeholders and Policymakers
Mehdi Razani, Hamid Fadaei,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract
Archaeological sites, as sensitive areas embodying diverse cultural, historical, and scientific values require coherent policies and mechanisms for their protection. Although in recent decades the importance of conserving such sites has been highlighted in both cultural discourse and professional practice, the absence of specific, coordinated strategic documents has led to various challenges during and after excavations. This article, grounded in field experiences and interdisciplinary collaboration among specialists and practitioners, underscores the necessity of formulating a National Conservation Document for Archaeological Excavations. The primary goal of this document is to institutionalize conservation as an integral component of the archaeological excavation process an approach that begins before excavation and continues through post-excavation long-term monitoring. This paper presents a structured proposal aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for defining responsibilities, scheduling conservation actions, and promoting inter-sectoral coordination in conservation and restoration activities during excavations. The principles, objectives, and practical recommendations of the proposed document are presented in the form of eight main articles, each accompanied by relevant clauses and provisions.

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