Hegmataneh Hill Archaeological Site
Hegmataneh Hill stands as a captivating archaeological marvel nestled in Hamedan. This site, steeped in history, holds within its layers the remnants of an ancient Median and Achaemenid city, offering a vivid glimpse into the ingenious engineering and rich heritage of Persia.
Historical Significance
Archaeological excavations have unveiled Hegmataneh Hill’s origins, tracing back to the 17th century BC when Aryan Tribes first graced the Iranian Plateau, establishing the cornerstone of their inaugural empire.
Description
A sprawling archaeological site, Hegmataneh Hill stands as a timeless testament to the cultural and historical tapestry of Hamedan and Iran. The name “Hamedan” is a transformation of “Hegmataneh,” both signifying a gathering place. Encompassing approximately 30 hectares, this grand complex remains untouched by modern intrusion, a sanctuary of the past. Recent excavations have only grazed a fraction of the hill’s expanse, preserving much for future exploration.
Renowned historian Herodotus speculated that Hegmataneh became the capital of the Medes around 800 BC. This sprawling city housed a royal complex, complete with a castle, treasury, and cantonment, enclosed by seven concentric walls. The interconnected labyrinthine design of this complex continues to captivate archaeologists, sparking debates about its purpose and construction date.
The ancient city atop Hegmataneh Hill showcases an intricate urban design. Houses fashioned from sizeable bricks, mud bricks, and wood formed parallel and symmetrical streets, paved with stone. The city boasted an advanced water supply system, with water flowing through 350-centimeter-wide channels.
Archaeological excavations yielded an array of priceless artifacts, including ceramics, bronze works, and stone craftsmanship. These treasures find their home in a museum adjacent to the hill, while other valuable findings grace museums and private collections worldwide.
Within this remarkable site also reside two Armenian churches: St. Stephanos Evangelical Church, built in 1886 AD and transformed into a museum on Armenian migration, and St. Stephanos Gregorian Armenian Church, initially erected in 1676 and reconstructed in 1936 after natural calamities. This site also embraces an Armenian school, bathhouse, and cemetery, encapsulating a rich cultural legacy.
The view from Hegmataneh Hill offers a breathtaking panorama of Hamedan City, a treasure in itself, paralleling the treasures it safeguards within.
Visiting Hours
Hegmataneh Hill Archaeological Site welcomes visitors from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during spring and summer. In autumn and winter, access extends until 5:00 p.m. Spring and summer are ideal seasons to explore this archaeological gem, as winter’s snow and rainfall can impede visits.
