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Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is an ingenious ancient water diversion system that is recognised by as a World Heritage Site. It is located in Shushtar, Iran, and dates back to the time of Darius the Great, in the 5th century BC.

The Shushtar Hydraulic System comprises a dam that controls the flow of water vital in irrigating the fields and enhancing agricultural productivity. The system comprises a cascade of water from the river Karun, which flows down through channels into the basin below.


Band-e Kaisar Arch Bridge, Shushtar, Iran
Band-e Kaisar Arch Bridge, Shushtar, Iran
Author: Ali Afghah (public domain)

 The hydraulic system at Shushtar allows water to be channelled to the orchards and farms. During the third century AD, an arch bridge was built using Roman workforce and combined with the dam of the Shushtar Hydraulic System. The bridge was in use until the late 19th century. Together, the dam is a testament to the expertise of the ancient Elamites and Mesopotamians in harnessing water while the bridge showcases Nabatean and Roman construction expertise.

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System was inscribed as a World Heritage Site during the 33rd session of the World Heritage Committee in Seville, Spain, on 22-30 June, 2009.

World Heritage Site Inscription Details

z Location: N32 1 7 E48 50 9 in Shushtar, Iran
Inscription Year: 2009
Type of Site: Cultural
Inscription Criteria: I, II, V

Return to Iran's World Heritage Sites
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