Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System Panorama

Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System

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Official name
Location	Shushtar, Khuzestan Province, Iran
Part of
Includes
Criteria	(i), (ii), (v)
Reference	1315
UNESCO region	{{{data10}}}

The Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is a complex irrigation system dating back to the 5th century BCE, located in the city of Shushtar in the Khuzestan Province of Iran. This ancient system is a testament to the ingenuity of the Achaemenid Empire and later enhancements by the Sassanid Empire.

History

The construction of the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System began during the reign of Darius the Great of the Achaemenid Empire. The system was later expanded and enhanced during the Sassanid Empire, particularly under the rule of Shapur I. The system was designed to harness the waters of the Karun River to provide irrigation, water supply, and power for mills.

Components

The Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System comprises several key components:

• Band-e Kaisar - Also known as the Caesar's Dam, this ancient dam was constructed by Roman soldiers captured by Shapur I. It is one of the earliest known examples of a dam built with a combination of stone and mortar.
• Gargar Canal - This canal diverts water from the Karun River to the city of Shushtar, providing water for irrigation and domestic use.
• Mizan Dam - This dam regulates the flow of water into the Gargar Canal.
• Mills - The system includes several water mills that were powered by the diverted water, used for grinding grain.
• Waterfalls - The system creates artificial waterfalls, which are a significant feature of the landscape and contribute to the aesthetic and functional aspects of the system.

Significance

The Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System is an outstanding example of ancient engineering and water management. It demonstrates the advanced understanding of hydraulics and the ability to manipulate natural resources to benefit human settlements. The system has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical, cultural, and technological significance.

Preservation

Efforts have been made to preserve and restore the Shushtar Historical Hydraulic System. The site is protected under Iranian law, and various conservation projects have been undertaken to maintain its structural integrity and historical value.

See also

• Achaemenid Empire
• Sassanid Empire
• Darius the Great
• Shapur I
• Karun River
• UNESCO World Heritage Site