Iran's Ministry of Cultural Heritage revealed that at least 56 archaeological sites and historic buildings have been damaged by attacks from the United States and Israel during a violent two-week period.
On 16 March 2026, Iran's Ministry of Cultural Heritage announced that at least 56 cultural and archaeological sites across the country suffered damage from military strikes by the United States and Israel over the past two weeks.
The damaged locations include museums, old markets, historic government buildings, and historic mosques. Among the notable sites affected is the Golestan Palace in Tehran, a Qajar dynasty palace renowned for its exquisite architecture. Other key sites in the city of Isfahan include the Shah Abbas Mosque and the Chehel Sotoun Palace, both built in the 17th century.
Iran further stated that cultural sites in various regions such as Kurdistan, Lorestan, and Kermanshah have also been impacted by the attacks.
This disclosure from Iran comes amid an escalating war situation now entering its third week following clashes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran that began on 28 February.