Iranian Minister Assesses Damage to Historic Sa'dabad Complex After Air Strikes

Iran's Minister of Cultural Heritage, Seyyed Reza Salehi-Amiri, conducted an inspection tour of the Sa'dabad Cultural-Historical Complex in northern Tehran on Thursday. The visit aimed to evaluate the damage inflicted on the site by recent air strikes.

The minister surveyed several damaged sections, including the Green Palace, Mellat Palace, Omidvar Brothers Museum, and the Royal Costume Museum. Initial reports indicate that parts of the complex suffered significant harm to infrastructure, buildings, and some museum artifacts.

Authorities stated that a comprehensive assessment of the full extent of the damage will require detailed technical studies. This evaluation is a necessary precursor to planning any restoration efforts.

During his visit, Salehi-Amiri emphasized the critical importance of protecting cultural heritage. He described it as integral to national identity and security. "Safeguarding these civilizational assets is part of the broader strategy to preserve national cohesion and protect the historical memory of Iranians," he said.

The Sa'dabad complex is one of Iran's most extensive royal estates, covering approximately 110 hectares on a wooded mountainside in northern Tehran. Its history dates back to the 19th century when it was first developed as a summer residence for Qajar monarchs.

The site underwent major expansion in the 1920s after Reza Shah Pahlavi made it his official residence. It remained a primary royal compound under his son, Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, until the monarchy's fall in 1979. Following the Islamic Revolution, the complex was nationalized and converted into a public museum complex.

Today, managed by Iran's Ministry of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Handicrafts, much of Sa'dabad houses museums displaying royal collections of furniture, dishware, carpets, paintings, and vintage automobiles. While several buildings are used by the Office of the President, most of the historic estate remains open to visitors exploring its palaces and gardens.