UNESCO Alarmed by Damage to Iran's Golestan Palace

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The United Nations cultural agency, UNESCO, expressed concern over the damage to Golestan Palace following a US-Israeli airstrike in Tehran, Iran, on Monday, March 2, 2026. The palace was hit by debris and shockwaves following the airstrike on nearby Arg Square, according to Iran's Mehr news agency. Windows, doors, and mirrors of the palace were reportedly damaged.

In a statement issued on Monday, UNESCO said it had communicated to all relevant parties the geographic coordinates of sites on the World Heritage List and sites of national significance, to avoid potential damage.

"UNESCO continues to closely monitor the situation of cultural heritage in the country and throughout the region, with a view to ensuring its protection," said a statement posted on the UN cultural agency's website.

UNESCO also noted that world cultural heritage is protected under international law, particularly the 1954 Hague Convention concerning the Protection of Cultural Property in Case of Armed Conflict, including the Enhanced Protection Mechanism, and the 1972 Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

The Iranian News Agency (ISNA) reported that a joint strike on Sunday night south of Tehran caused partial damage to the historic Golestan Palace. The shockwave shattered windows, doors, and antique mirrors, as confirmed by the Mehr News Agency, citing Annahar.

Ali Darabi, Iran's Deputy Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism, and Crafts, urged international organizations responsible for protecting cultural sites—especially UNESCO—to fulfill their duties and responsibilities in safeguarding world heritage and cultural properties.

Palace of Versailles in Persia

Golestan Palace was once the headquarters of the Qajar Dynasty. It is a masterpiece of art and architecture, housing a treasure trove of jewelry, formal ceremonial halls, walls decorated with intricate tiles, and niches carved with images of birds and statues of princes. Built in the 16th century and modified throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the palace has earned the nickname "Palace of Versailles" in Persia.

The palace is named Golestan (meaning Rose Garden) after its natural surroundings. The palace consists of eight unique architectural structures centered around a water pool and flower beds.

According to UNESCO, Golestan Palace is located in the heart of Tehran's historic center. This walled palace is one of the city's oldest complexes. It was chosen as the seat of government by the Qajar family, who established Tehran as the nation's capital.

Read: Prabowo Discusses US-Iran Conflict with Former President and Foreign Ministers

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