Siraf Port (Bandar Siraf), an ancient trading center located on the northern shore of the Persian Gulf in Bushehr Province, Iran 🇮🇷. Its foundations date back to the Parthian period (248 BC - 224 AD), flourished during Sassanid Empire (224-651 AD), and became an important maritime stop on the Silk Road in early Islamic times (especially in 9th-10th Centuries).
Engaged in intensive trade with China, India, East Africa, and Southeast Asia, the port was a hub for spices, silk, ivory, lapis lazuli, and luxury goods. It maintained strong economic ties with Rome, Greece, and the Middle East.
Archaeological excavations have unearthed multi-story houses, mosques, bazaars, ceramic and glass workshops, and the remains of ships. It was destroyed by a massive earthquake and tsunami around 970, leaving its remains partially submerged.
The site, now known as Taheri village, is on the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and its wealth is compared to ancient ports like Venice or Boston.
#archaeohistories