Jiroft civilization, located in Kerman Province, Iran, stands as one of the most enigmatic ancient civilizations, with discoveries that may necessitate a rewriting of history. Prior to its revelation, Sumer in Mesopotamia was widely regarded as the world’s oldest civilization. However, in the early 2000s, a flood along the HalilRood River unearthed an archaeological site that predated Sumer, offering evidence of an advanced and highly developed ancient society.
History of Jiroft
Geological studies indicate that approximately 7,000 years ago, there was a large sea in central Iran and many ancient civilizations, including Jiroft, Shahr-e Sukhteh, Sialk, and Elam, developed around it. Over time, climate changes dried up the sea, and these civilizations declined. Among them, Jiroft is believed to be the oldest.
Notably, ancient Babylonian and Assyrian writings mention a mysterious land called Aratta. Some thought it was a myth because no evidence had been found. However, the accidental discovery of the Jiroft civilization proved that Aratta was real and was located in Iran.
Revelation of Jiroft
After two years of drought in the desert region of Kerman province, a massive flood occurred in the HelilRood River. Due to its intensity, the flood washed away everything in its path. As the desert soil in the Jiroft region was swept away, the remains of a strange and very ancient civilization were unexpectedly revealed—something no one had known about before. However, after further investigations and excavations, it was discovered that this civilization is even older than those in Mesopotamia and dates back more than 7,000 years ago.
Discoveries in Jiroft
Among the most remarkable discoveries in Jiroft are intricately carved stone vessels and plaques adorned with elaborate depictions of animals such as ibexes, cheetahs, falcons, snakes, and scorpions. The complexity of these designs suggests a highly advanced artistic tradition that required mathematical calculations.
Interestingly, some artifacts discovered in Shahr-e Sukhteh were crafted using a gemstone-inlay technique that was unique to Jiroft and had not been seen in any other ancient civilization prior to this discovery. This finding suggests that Jiroft and Shahr-e Sukhteh maintained strong cultural and trade relations.
Another significant finding in Jiroft is a large mudbrick structure, believed to be a ziggurat, dating back to the early third millennium BCE. Archaeologists have yet to uncover the main entrances of this structure, as much of it remains buried beneath the soil.
However, the most astonishing discovery was the Jiroft script. This form of writing, resembling geometric symbols, predates Sumerian cuneiform and Egyptian hieroglyphs, providing compelling evidence that the ancient Iranians may have been the earliest creators of written language. Despite ongoing efforts, scholars have yet to decipher these inscriptions. Given Jiroft’s apparent wealth, it is speculated that these texts contain records related to commerce or governance.
Threats to Jiroft
Unfortunately, in recent years, illegal excavations and antiquities trafficking have led to the loss of many invaluable artifacts from the Jiroft site. These artifacts, considered part of Iran’s national heritage, have been smuggled out of the country and sold to major museums worldwide. The loss of these relics has significantly hindered efforts to fully understand the civilization’s historical and cultural contributions.
Conclusion
Jiroft civilization challenges what we thought we knew about ancient history. With its advanced art, unique writing system, and trade connections, Jiroft was a highly developed society that existed before many well-known civilizations. Although challenges remain in preserving and studying the site, further archaeological work may reveal even more about this lost civilization, helping us better understand early human history.